Last updated on August 20th, 2025
Selecting self-defense insurance, sometimes called concealed carry insurance, can be mind-numbing at times. Many of the people I have spoken with selected their company either through frustration with all the options or simply by choosing the lowest price. Others choose their company based on the advice of YouTubers who get paid to promote an insurance product. The frustration comes from trying to compare what is and is not covered by each company. This article will help you sort through those options to select the right self-defense insurance company for you.
There are several self-defense insurance companies on the market. Choosing an insurance company to provide self-defense insurance for yourself and your family can seem overwhelming. Each company is slightly different from the next, with some covering certain actions that others will not. My goal with this article is to explain things you may want to consider and point out some of the pros and cons of the more popular carriers.
Table of Contents
Disclosures and Disclaimers
I want to start with full disclosure. I am affiliated with some of the companies discussed in this article. I might earn a small commission if you register through any of the links on this website. Having said that, all the information that I will present will be presented fairly and impartially, and I’ll discuss some carriers that I am not affiliated with. If you find any of the information in this article helpful, I would truly appreciate using the links provided to help support my work in bringing you this free educational content.
As a disclaimer, all of the information about these self-defense insurance companies comes directly from their policies and service agreements or public information. However, it is important to note that policies and agreements often change. I originally compiled this article in 2014 and tried to update it every 6 months, but that became a daunting task as things change so frequently. In this article, I will do my best to link the documentation so that you may verify current coverage for yourself. I recommend you verify everything for yourself.
It’s also important to be aware that the term “insurance” has certain specific legal requirements, and not all the companies discussed in this article are “insurance”. However, I use the term “self-defense insurance” as a generic description to describe any company that provides legal coverage after an act of self-defense. Some are groups or cooperatives, others are prepaid legal service providers. For convenience, I’ve incorrectly lumped them all into the term insurance.
Do you need Self Defense Insurance?
The question of needing self-defense insurance comes up often. The short answer is no, but the long answer is “Yes!” The criminal justice system could easily bankrupt someone trying to prove their innocence. Later in this article, I will provide real-life examples of innocent defenders who had to go through the legal meat-grinder to prove their innocence. According to the Armed Citizens Legal Defense Network, the average cost to bring a case to a verdict is around $120,000. A legal retainer, just to get the case started, could easily be over $10,000 for a capital offense like murder or attempted murder.
Before the SAFE-T Act in Illinois passed, eliminating cash bail, one could expect to have a $50,000 bail, requiring one to post 10%, or $5,000, to be released from pre-trial jail. Many states still have cash bail, and the amount you’ll have to pay for your freedom varies from state to state, but is probably pretty close to the same.
I don’t have this kind of money. Which is why I personally have self-defense insurance.
Important considerations for self-defense insurance
Coverage area – The area where you are covered for acts of self defense. Will I be covered in the entire United States or only some states? Am I covered in the US territories?
Covered Acts – What acts are covered? Some insurance companies will only cover the use of a firearm. Others will cover all acts of self defense, including unarmed, pepper spray, etc…
Money Up Front – It’s important to know if the money you receive will be upfront or if the money will be “post pay”. Post pay means you will be reimbursed after you’ve been found not guilty. The point of self-defense insurance is that most people can not afford the exorbitant upfront fees required to defend themselves. For me, it only makes sense to do business with a company that pays my expenses upfront. Post-pay is a deal-killer for me.
Requirements for Coverage – Is a concealed carry license a requirement for coverage? Some of the companies will only cover you in areas where your concealed carry license is recognized.
Denials and Exclusions – Can my claim be denied, and if so, what could trigger a denial? All the companies have exclusions, and it is important that we know what those exclusions are. Exclusions and denials could be for specific weapons, intoxication, domestic violence, etc…
Civil Defense – You can be sued after an act of self-defense. Some companies will provide for your civil defense if sued. Others will only protect you in criminal court, and others will even cover the civil penalty if you lose in civil court.
Additional Benefits – While we primarily focus on the expenses related to lawyer fees and bail, there will be numerous other fees one will incur after an act of self defense. If the act occurs in your home, it will be a crime scene, and you won’t be able to return for a while. Your gun will be taken as evidence. You’ll lose wages when you miss work for court cases. You’re likely going to experience some mental trauma and seek therapy, which isn’t free. Is any training and education provided? These additional benefits are really and truly what sets one self defense insurance company apart from the crowd.
Self Defense Insurance Companies
As previously stated, there are many self-defense insurance companies on the market. I’ll list some of these companies and provide an overview with some of my opinions as to the pros and cons of each company.
CCWSAFE
Overview of CCWSAFE: CCW Safe is a legal service membership plan designed to provide legal defense and support for gun owners involved in a self-defense incident. Founded in 2011 by former police officers, CCW Safe was created to offer a service that mirrors the support and resources provided to law enforcement officers after an on-duty shooting. The company emphasizes a proactive approach, providing legal and financial support from the moment an incident occurs, rather than through a reimbursement model.
The founder’s goal was to fill a gap in the market by offering a comprehensive service that would cover the substantial costs associated with defending a self-defense case, including attorneys’ fees, investigator fees, and expert witness costs.
Since its founding in 2011, CCW Safe has been offering its legal defense membership plans to gun owners, including CCW permit holders, active and retired military, and law enforcement officers. This service is the core of their business, and it is designed to provide immediate access to legal counsel and other resources to navigate the legal and emotional aftermath of a self-defense incident.
CCWSAFE Coverage area: United States of America, excluding NJ, WA, and NY. Also excludes territories.
What’s covered for acts of Self Defense: all reasonable costs to defend against criminal charges and civil suits including investigations, all reasonable costs to defend a revoked concealed carry license, at least $250,000 for bail bonds, expert witnesses, minimum $1,500 psychological counseling, firearm replacement, approximately $750 per day loss of wages during trial, expungement of records, appeals, civil damages on some plans, up to $10,000 for orders of protection,
CCWSAFE Price Range starting at $19 with discounts for paying a year in advance.
Additional CCWSAFE Benefits: Online educational videos. Coverage for fees for court-ordered electronic monitoring, crime scene cleanup, funeral expenses, TSA weapon violations for some plans, firearm theft replacement on some plans.
CCW Safe Pros
- Removed their former alcohol/impairment exclusion.
- Removed their domestic relationship exclusion.
CCW Safe Cons
- Too many plans with different coverage amounts per plan can be confusing.
- Limited ability to select your own attorney.
- No coverage in certain states.
https://ccwsafe.com/terms-conditions/
Right To Bear
Right To Bear Overview: Right to Bear is a self-defense association that provides legal protection and resources for responsible gun owners. Right to Bear Insurance was founded around 2022 to support the right afforded to all Americans by the Second Amendment.
The core of Right to Bear’s offerings is a self-defense liability policy that it has acquired for its members. This policy is designed to cover the significant costs that can arise from a self-defense incident, including criminal and civil defense, bail, and the replacement of a firearm if it is confiscated.
Right to Bear emphasizes an “up front money” policy, meaning that they provide immediate financial assistance to members for legal fees and other related costs, a feature that distinguishes it from some other providers that operate on a reimbursement model. In addition to legal coverage, the company also provides training, education, and other member benefits.
Right To Bear Coverage area: Only your home state unless you purchase the multi-state add-on.
What’s covered for acts of self defense: unlimited legal fees for civil and criminal defense, firearm replacement, expert witnesses, psychological support, up to 40 sessions, up to $100,000 for bail bonds if you purchase the optional add-on,
Right To Bear Price Range Starting at $17 a month with multiple add-on options.
Additional Benefits with Right To Bear: up to $50,000 for legal fees for negligent discharges.
Right To Bear Pros
- Security guards and law enforcement are not excluded from coverage, like with most other companies.
- A la carte pricing allows you to choose only the options you want.
Right To Bear Cons
- Residents of NJ, NY, and WA can not purchase a Right to Bear membership.
- No wage reimbursement.
- No coverage for civil damages.
Service Agreement: https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0645/6069/3505/files/RTB_Membership_Terms_and_Conditions_6-20-2025.pdf
You must email to request a copy of the Right To Bear insurance policy.
USCCA
USCCA Overview: The United States Concealed Carry Association (USCCA) is a private organization that supports and provides resources for responsible gun owners. The organization began with the publication of Concealed Carry Magazine in 2004. Over time, it evolved into a larger association that offers a variety of benefits to its members.
The USCCA’s core mission is to help gun owners prepare for and navigate the aftermath of a self-defense incident. Membership includes access to a range of resources, such as educational materials, training videos, and other information to enhance preparedness.
A key benefit of USCCA membership is the self-defense liability insurance that the association has purchased for its members. The insurance policy helps cover costs related to legal defense, bail, and other expenses that may arise after a self-defense incident.
USCCA Coverage area: The entire United States, including territories and possessions.
What’s covered for acts of Self Defense by the USCCA: all legal fees, investigation fees, up to $250,000 for bail bonds, up to $5,000 for expungement or sealing records, all court costs, up to $20,000 for incidental expenses, up to $15,000 for orders of protection, the use of any lawful weapon according to federal law, aftermath cleanup, weapon replacement, family members are also covered within the residence,
USCCA Price Range: Starts at $39 a month; discounts are available for pre-payment.
Additional USCCA Benefits: Magazine subscription, hundreds of hours of e-learning and educational videos, up to $10,000 for loss of earnings,
USCCA Pros
- Most coverage.
- Largest service area.
- Fewest exclusions.
USCCA Cons
- Costly.
- Residents of NJ, NY, and WA can not join the USCCA.
- SPAM.
- Recoupment clause.
Membership agreement: https://www.usccamemberterms.com
Self Defense Liability Policy: https://www.deltadefense.com/public/self-defense-liability-policy.pdf
US Law Shield
Overview: U.S. LawShield is a legal defense for self-defense organization that has been in business since 2009. Founded in Texas by a group of lawyers, the company was created to provide affordable legal representation to responsible gun owners. It was established out of a recognized need for a service that would protect individuals from the legal and financial ramifications of a self-defense incident.
The core of U.S. LawShield’s business model is a legal service membership plan, which provides members with access to a network of independent program attorneys. This service began with the company’s founding in 2009 and is a central feature of its membership. The membership is designed to cover legal fees and other costs associated with both criminal and civil cases that arise from a self-defense event.
U.S. LawShield distinguishes itself by offering a service that focuses on “zero attorneys’ fees” for covered events. The company emphasizes a direct approach to legal defense, providing immediate access to an attorney-answered emergency hotline. In addition to legal coverage, U.S. LawShield also provides educational resources, training, and seminars to help members stay informed about self-defense laws and responsible firearm ownership.
Second Call Defense
Overview: Second Call Defense is a legal defense organization for gun owners, with a history that can be traced back to at least 2013. It provides a legal service plan to members, offering access to attorneys and financial support for legal costs following a self-defense incident. The company’s model is designed to cover both criminal and civil legal fees.
Second Call Defense focuses on providing its members with immediate, upfront access to legal counsel without relying on a reimbursement model. This is a key distinction from some other organizations in the field. The service is intended to help members navigate the legal complexities and financial burdens that can arise after a self-defense event. The company’s service, which is not an insurance policy, has been a core part of its business since its inception.
The organization’s approach is based on the idea of a comprehensive legal defense program rather than a traditional insurance product. It aims to provide a dedicated network of lawyers and financial resources to its members.
Additional companies
Firearms Legal Protection
Attorneys on Retainer
X Insurance
Lockton Affinity
Additional Considerations
When I am selecting a self-defense insurance company, these are the things I think about… Where am I covered (United States and Territories)? Am I covered for all lawful weapons, including unarmed self-defense? Are civil suits included? Are civil damages included? What are the exclusions? What are the add-on benefits?
I want a company that will cover me in all 50 states, not just where my concealed carry license is valid. Because my brother lives in New Jersey and my wife’s family lives in Puerto Rico, I want a company that covers me in all 50 states and preferably the US territories as well. I want a company that will cover me for ALL acts of self-defense, not just with a firearm. I want a company that provides criminal and civil protection, including posting bond. I want a company that protects my Second Amendment rights against a tyrannical government abusing orders of protection and red flag laws. I want a company that won’t abandon me if I have had a few drinks. These are the things that are MOST important to me.
When comparing various companies, these are some of the differences you will see… Exclusions for drugs and alcohol. Exclusions for domestic violence. Pre-pay vs Post Pay.
Red flag laws and orders of protection are often abused in places like Illinois. Illinois will revoke your gun rights if someone seeks an order of protection against you. The process of reinstating your gun rights can be lengthy and very expensive. I’ve had numerous students fall victim to frivolous allegations and the costly process of proving their innocence. I’m so happy that several of the companies on this page will cover this abuse of your rights. Having said that, you are statistically more likely to use this coverage than the self-defense component of your policy or agreement. If you live in a socialist state, like Illinois, this should be a must!
Alcohol and Intoxication – If I have enjoyed a couple of bourbons while relaxing after dinner, then go to bed at night only to be woken up hours later by a home invasion, I would hate to be excluded from coverage. However, if the company has an exclusion for alcohol, you likely won’t be covered.
Also, marijuana is legal for medicinal use in most of the US and recreational use in roughly half of the US. If you are a marijuana patient or partake from time to time, this is a topic that should concern you.
Domestic violence exclusions can be tricky. If an ex-partner were to attack you, would that be considered domestic violence? If a wacky ex is of concern to you, then this is something you would want to be included in your policy or membership agreement.
Can I use my lawyer? Many of the companies will allow you to choose your own representation, while others will choose for you. In most situations, this isn’t a concern; however, I have been advising my students since 2013 to ‘Find a lawyer you trust, who specializes in self-defense, and put their number in speed dial.” Will you be allowed to use your lawyer, or must you use their lawyer? Something to consider.
Prosecuted for Self-Defense
You can do everything right and still end up in jail. No matter how justified you felt in your actions, you may need to tell it to a judge. As you can imagine, not every case of self-defense is reported. Each one of the people below were attacked, defended themselves, and were then charged with serious crimes. Charges were later dropped, or a verdict of not guilty was issued after extensive legal work.
2025 Gary C. Hudson – Ohio
2024 Maurice Byrd – Pennsylvania
2024 Collin Griffith – Florida
2023 Thomas Hampton – Ohio
2022 John and Billie Jo Wollaston – Kentucky
2022 Daniel Gerger – Rolling Meadows, IL
2022 Michael Hedman – California
2022 Alton Oliver – Georgia
2022 Darell Daniels and Doncell Roshon-Hauser – ?
2021 Jacouri Burns – Kentucky
2021 Prince Riley – California
2020 Tamika Green – D.C.
2019 Laquinton Blackwell – Virginia
2019 James Edwards – Florida
2018 Bruce T. Peltonen – Florida
2017 Francisco Munoz – Chicago
2016 Billy Cowart – Chicago
2015 Stephen Maddox – North Carolina
? Kerri Ann McGrath – Florida
? Antonio Diaz – Las Vegas
? Jonathan Dowling – Michigan
? Max Miller – Texas
? Brad Ensign – Texas
? Jeremy McCree – California
Self Defense Insurance FAQ
Is self-defense insurance the same as CCW insurance?
CCW insurance is similar to self-defense insurance, though more limited. The two words are commonly used interchangeably, but they aren’t the same. CCW insurance is concealed carry insurance, but not all acts of self-defense involve the use of a concealed carry pistol. You probably want an insurance company that protects you against all acts of self-defense.
Does self defense insurance cover the protection of property?
The answer will be in the policy or member agreement. Typically, self-defense insurance does not protect you if you use force to protect property. It’s not stuff defense insurance. But the specifics of each scenario would determine coverage or not. For example, if you’re being carjacked by someone with a gun, it is easy to argue that you weren’t protecting your car but were protecting yourself or family and likely would be covered.
Is this murder insurance?
Self-defense insurance is not insurance, and this is obvious to anyone who has read the policies and agreements. Those politicians and non-government organizations who promote civilian disarmament like to ruin everything. This includes the idea of self-defense insurance. They give it an aggressive name to taint the idea in the minds of the public.
Is self-defense insurance worth it?
I wish we didn’t need self-defense insurance, but then again, I wish the criminal justice system wouldn’t bankrupt the average person. Only you can determine its worth, but I believe for the average person, self-defense insurance is not only worth it but essential.
Is self defense insurance required?
Self-defense insurance is not legally required. There have been efforts in some states to make all gun owners obtain liability insurance, but I don’t believe those efforts have passed in any state. While legally, self-defense insurance is not required by law, it is highly recommended for the average person.
What is an Attorney Retainer?
Attorneys will often ask for money upfront to accept your case and begin working. They will then bill their hours towards this retainer. While a retainer for a vandalism charge might be a couple of thousand dollars, for a capital offense such as murder or attempted murder, the retainer will be in the tens of thousands of dollars. This means, before the attorney agrees to represent you, you’ll have to come out of pocket $10,000 or more, unless you are covered with a self-defense policy or agreement.
How much does a criminal lawyer cost?
Asking how much a lawyer costs is like asking how much a car costs. The answer varies. An informal survey of criminal defense lawyers in the Chicago area yielded a wide variety of answers, with prices ranging from $200-$1,000 per hour. Retainers for a capital case were between $5,000-$25,000. According to the Armed Citizens Legal Defense Network, to bring a case to verdict averages $120,000.
Updates
CCW Safe Buys ACLDN – Sept 2025
NRA “Carry Guard” out of business – July 2019
