Does Fiduciary Liability Cover Excessive Fee Lawsuits?

Fiduciary liability may cover an excessive-fee lawsuit alleging imprudent plan management, subject to policy terms and treatment of restitution.

DOL says fiduciaries must pay only reasonable plan expenses. Check whether the policy covers defense and damages, and whether restitution or returned fees are excluded.

Check whether the quoted form covers defense and settlements for the pleaded allegations, how defense costs reduce the limit, and whether the policy excludes or limits restitution, fees, disgorgement, or amounts characterized as benefits. Review the insured-person and plan definitions and any prior-knowledge or prior-proceeding exclusions as well. Preserve fee studies, service-provider comparisons, committee minutes, and notices; insurance does not replace a prudent documented selection and monitoring process.

Which Providers List Coverage for Fiduciary Liability Insurance?

Sources for Fiduciary Liability Insurance Answers

  1. FAQs about Retirement Plans and ERISA. U.S. Department of Labor, Employee Benefits Security Administration; What are the responsibilities of plan fiduciaries?; Is it possible to sue under ERISA? Accessed 2026-09-25.
  2. Fiduciary Liability. Travelers Casualty and Surety Company of America; II.D,J–L pp.2–3; II.A p.1; II.V p.5; Header p.1; II.M p.3; III.A.6–8 pp.5–6; II.M.2 p.3; III.B.1 p.6. Accessed 2026-09-25.
  3. Fiduciary Liability Insurance. Travelers; What Is Fiduciary Liability Insurance? Accessed 2026-09-25.

Want someone to handle this for you?

Spot, which publishes this research, gets quotes from 50+ providers, picks the options that fit your coverage and budget, and manages renewals after you buy. The first consultation is free. Book a free consultation