EXHIBIT 23(a)


                          CONSENT OF ERNST & YOUNG, LLP




We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement (Form
S-8) pertaining to the Bancinsurance Corporation 2002 Stock Incentive Plan of
our report dated February 1, 2002, with respect to the consolidated financial
statements and schedules of Bancinsurance Corporation included in its Annual
Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended December 31, 2001, filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission.

/s/ Ernst & Young, LLP

Columbus, Ohio
June 24, 2002