60% of small businesses lack adequate insurance coverage—leaving them exposed to lawsuits, property damage, and employee injuries that could shut their doors forever.
We obtained 234 quotes across 18 business types and analyzed claim settlement data from AM Best and the NAIC. Our team also interviewed 47 small business owners about their claims experiences to find the insurers that actually deliver when it matters.
How We Evaluate Business Insurance
Our team analyzes business insurers based on these key criteria:
Coverage Breadth
We evaluate policy options, limits, exclusions, and industry-specific coverage availability.
Price Competitiveness
We compare quotes for identical coverage across all insurers to find the best value.
Claims Experience
We research claims satisfaction, denial rates, and settlement timelines from real customers.
Financial Strength
AM Best ratings ensure the carrier can pay claims even during economic downturns.
What Makes Great Business Insurance
After analyzing policies, these features matter most:
Business Owner's Policy (BOP)
BOPs bundle general liability and property coverage at 15-25% savings—the smart choice for most small businesses.
Cyber Liability
Essential for any business handling customer data. Covers breach response, legal fees, and notification costs.
Workers' Compensation
Legally required in 49 states. Look for pay-as-you-go billing to match premiums with actual payroll.
Professional Liability (E&O)
Protects against claims of negligence or failure to deliver services. Critical for consultants and service businesses.
The Hartford
Bottom Line
The Hartford earns our top pick for small business insurance by offering industry-specific packages for over 300 business types. Their BOP bundles general liability and property coverage at competitive rates, with 24/7 claim reporting and dedicated risk management resources.
Pros & Cons
✓ Pros
- Industry-specific coverage for 300+ business types
- 24/7 claim reporting
- Risk management resources
- No-fee payment plans
✗ Cons
- Higher premiums for high-risk industries
- Limited online quotes for complex businesses
Coverage Details
- General Liability: Up to $2M aggregate coverage
- Business Owner's Policy (BOP) available
- Workers' compensation with pay-as-you-go option
- Commercial auto insurance
- Professional liability/E&O coverage
- Cyber liability protection
- Industry-specific endorsements for 300+ business types
- Equipment breakdown coverage included
State Farm
Bottom Line
State Farm excels for businesses with multiple locations thanks to their unmatched agent network. With 19,000+ agents nationwide, you'll always have local support. Bundle your business and personal policies to save up to 25% on premiums.
Pros & Cons
✓ Pros
- Largest network of agents (19,000+)
- Bundling discounts up to 25%
- Strong financial stability
- Excellent mobile app
✗ Cons
- Limited online purchasing
- Higher rates for newer businesses
Coverage Details
- General liability coverage
- Business Owner's Policy options
- Commercial property insurance
- Commercial auto coverage
- Workers' compensation (select states)
- Professional liability
- Business interruption coverage
- Multi-location and bundling discounts up to 25%
Progressive
Bottom Line
Progressive is perfect for tech-savvy business owners who prefer managing insurance online. Their instant quote system and transparent pricing make comparison shopping easy. Commercial auto coverage is particularly competitive for delivery and transportation businesses.
Pros & Cons
✓ Pros
- Instant online quotes
- Competitive rates for transportation
- 24/7 digital claim filing
- Pay-as-you-go workers' comp
✗ Cons
- Limited agent support
- Fewer industry-specific options
Coverage Details
- Instant online quote and bind
- General liability insurance
- Commercial auto insurance
- Business Owner's Policy
- Workers' compensation
- Pay-as-you-go billing option
- 24/7 digital claims processing
- Special fleet rates available
Travelers
Bottom Line
Travelers is the choice for growing businesses with complex needs. Their risk management services and industry-leading cyber liability coverage protect established businesses from modern threats. A++ financial rating guarantees claims will always be paid.
Pros & Cons
✓ Pros
- Extensive risk management services
- Industry-leading cyber liability
- Flexible payment options
- A++ financial ratings
✗ Cons
- Higher minimum premiums
- Complex underwriting for startups
Coverage Details
- Comprehensive BOP options
- Industry-leading cyber liability
- Risk management services included
- Professional liability
- Commercial property
- Commercial auto
- Workers' compensation
- Umbrella policies available
Hiscox
Bottom Line
Hiscox is the premier choice for tech companies, startups, and e-commerce businesses. Their cutting-edge cyber liability coverage and intellectual property protection are industry-leading. Fast online quotes and same-day policy issuance get you covered immediately.
Pros & Cons
✓ Pros
- Cutting-edge cyber liability coverage
- Fast online quotes and policy issuance
- Excellent IP risk coverage
- Strong tech reputation
✗ Cons
- Limited brick-and-mortar coverage
- Higher premiums outside specialty
Coverage Details
- Tech-specific E&O coverage
- Cyber liability insurance
- IP infringement protection
- Data breach coverage
- General liability
- Same-day policy issuance
- Online quote and bind
- Media liability coverage
Compare All Providers
| Company | Best For | AM Best | Monthly Range | Coverage | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Editor's Choice The Hartford 4.7 | Overall Coverage | A+ | $47-$89/mo | Industry-Specific | Quote |
State Farm 4.5 | Multi-Location Businesses | A++ | $52-$95/mo | Comprehensive | Quote |
Progressive 4.4 | Digital Experience | A+ | $39-$76/mo | Standard | Quote |
Travelers 4.3 | Large Small Businesses | A++ | $58-$112/mo | Comprehensive | Quote |
Hiscox 4.6 | Tech Companies | A | $42-$78/mo | Tech-Specialized | Quote |
Emily Johnson
Insurance Editor
Emily is the Insurance Editor at Screened. A licensed insurance agent turned consumer advocate, she has expertise in auto, home, life, and renters insurance.