posted on: 04/23/2020
Can I work? Should I work?
Given current conditions, several factors must be taken into account as you consider your practice. First, check your state and county regulations as stay-at-home restrictions are being updated often. We also encourage you to read our Back-to-Practice statement for a full review of considerations.
Is my liability insurance valid during this time?
As long as you are in compliance with your state and local regulations, your liability insurance is valid. Check here for state updates.
Is my job as a hair professional considered “essential”?
AHP does not determine whether hair professionals are essential or nonessential; that is a decision made by local and federal authorities. Check here for state updates.
Are virtual consultation sessions included in my liability insurance policy?
Your hair stylist liability insurance policy is valid with virtual consultation sessions that include: consulting with clients on their hair, retail product recommendations, and developing treatment plans for future in-person appointments. This would be covered under the following circumstances:
- The client must be located in the same state that the practitioner is legally allowed to practice in;
- For new clients, the practitioner must do a full intake form;
- The practitioner must be able to see the client as they are virtually working with them;
- The sessions are live and not prerecorded;
- Policy language applies (exclusions, etc.). The practitioner must be within scope of practice.
The above constitutes expanded emergency coverage, and is conditional based on the unique COVID-19 pandemic circumstances, during which practitioners can’t perform hands-on work. Please check back for updates on virtual coverage, as the situation evolves.
Are virtual product recommendations included in my liability insurance policy?
Recommending retail sales products during a virtual consultation session is acceptable as long as the practitioner has met the virtual consultation session circumstances above. Practitioners are not to sell “Professional-Use Only” products to clients.
Does my policy cover me for being out of work (business interruption)?
Your liability insurance policy does not cover business interruption. The “Loss of Earnings” clause in the policy specifically pertains to a member being reimbursed if they are required to take time away from their practice because of a lawsuit against them that is covered under the policy.
Can I apply for unemployment benefits or financial help?
Yes, we believe the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) issued March 27, 2020, allows hair professionals to file for unemployment benefits. Under the CARES Act, unemployment insurance benefits will temporarily be available to “an eligible self-employed individual” . . . “an individual who regularly carries on any trade or business.” It appears that this expanded eligibility applies to individuals who work “part-time,” a government definition that would cover a large proportion of massage therapists, estheticians, hair stylists, and nail professionals. You have to take the initiative to apply for unemployment insurance.
Learn about unemployment benefits in your states. Be aware that states are working to create the policy and processes for self-employed unemployment as of April 1, 2020. It is expected be online in all states no later than April 10, 2020. Many members are sharing their individual application experiences and information on our social media pages:
I have more questions. Can I contact you?
Yes, please! We’re here for you, and our member service team is available Monday–Friday, 7:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m. MT. Call us at 800-575-4642 or email info@associatedhairprofessionals.com.