.png?width=207&height=55&name=Horan_Logo%20Transparent%20No%20Tagline%20(2).png)
Small businesses need insurance to protect their assets, employees, and customers. But finding the right insurance carrier can be challenging. There are many factors to consider, such as
- The ease of use of these companies
- Their appetite for different businesses, and
- Their portfolio of available policies.
As an independent agency in Baldwinsville, New York, we work with many different insurance carriers to find the best coverage for our clients. We’re experienced and knowledgeable in the local market. And we know the needs of small businesses in Central New York.
That’s why we decided to share our list of the five best small business insurance carriers in CNY. Among them are carriers we trust and recommend for our small business clients. Of course, every business is unique and has different needs, so we always encourage you to contact us for a personalized quote and consultation.
That said, here are the five best small business insurance carriers in CNY, with more details about each one:
Dryden Mutual Insurance Company
Dryden is great for contractors.
They write policies for small businesses with one or two owners, such as sole proprietors, LLCs, corporations, or DBAs. They offer competitive rates and flexible coverage options for
- general liability, property,
- premise coverage,
- and more.
Dryden Mutual offers commercial insurance for small contractors and businesses. Whether you climb ladders, install cabinets, or mow lawns, Dryden has you covered. You can also get professional liability for Main Street operations like hair salons, and barber shops.
Dryden also insures farm operations, restaurants, snow removal, hunting camps, and much more. Consider Dryden Mutual for your commercial insurance needs. Learn more by reading our comprehensive review of Dryden Mutual.
They also have easy certificates of insurance and flexible pay plans.
Erie Insurance
Erie is another excellent option for small businesses in CNY. They have a wide range of products and services for different types of businesses, from retail to professional services to manufacturing. They also have a reputation for outstanding customer service and claims handling, ranking high in 2022 J.D. Power customer satisfaction studies.
Some of their coverages include
- commercial auto
- business income,
- equipment breakdown,
- cyber liability, and
- employment practices liability.
But Erie is not good for high-risk contractors. For instance, if you or your employees use a ladder or scaffolding for work, you are high-risk for them and may not qualify for their policies. You may want to consider other insurers that specialize in high-risk businesses, such as Dryden Mutual.
Main Street America Insurance
Main Street is a national carrier that has a strong presence in CNY. They have a diverse appetite for small businesses across various industries and sectors. They offer comprehensive and customizable coverage solutions for
- property,
- liability,
- inland marine,
- umbrella,
- and more.
Main Street has the most flexibility for contractors who have been in business for three years or more. They offer workers comp, depending on your eligibility.
Main Street America Insurance has a high rating from A.M. Best and a stable outlook, indicating its financial strength and stability. They also have mixed customer reviews, with some praising its affordability and ease of purchase, and others praising and complaining about its poor customer service and claims handling.
You can read some of the reviews from other customers following a simple Google search.
To learn more about the company, read our comprehensive review of Main Street America.
Oswego County Mutual
Oswego County Mutual is a local carrier that has been serving CNY since 1878. They are a mutual company, which means they are owned by their policyholders and operate for their benefit.
They have a niche market for small businesses in the agricultural and rural sectors. They provide affordable and reliable coverage for farm owners, farm operations, agribusinesses, and country homes.
The only problem with Oswego County Mutual is technology. They’re not very advanced. Getting a quote or a rate from them isn’t as seamless as with other carriers. But they’re a good company once you get over that hurdle.
Also, Oswego County Mutual only offers business liability insurance. They don’t have the other commercial coverages. But if you only want a liability policy and some property coverage, they are fine.
You can search for a local agent using their online portal.
The Hartford
The Hartford is a well-known and respected carrier that has been in the insurance business for over 200 years. They have a broad appetite for small businesses of all sizes and shapes. They offer innovative and tailored coverage solutions for
- property,
- liability,
- workers compensation,
- commercial auto,
- business owner’s policy (BOP),
- and more.
If you have a Main Street business, like an office or a small retail store, Hartford is a good option, as they offer competitive rates.
Hartford caters to hair salons, small restaurants, professional offices, and retail stores. They also write policies for novelty shops, gift shops, hardware stores, bookstores, and more. Like the other carriers on this list, Hartford works with independent agencies like us.
You can find a local agent using their Find an Insurance Agent portal.
We Can Help You Choose the Right Carrier for Your CNY Business
As a small business owner, you know how important it is to protect your livelihood and your future. You work hard to provide value to your customers and your community. You deserve an insurance carrier that works hard for you too. That’s why we recommend these five carriers.
We didn’t rank these carriers in any order. The first one on the list is not necessarily the best, but that depends on your needs. Some carriers are better suited for certain types of businesses than others. Here are some examples:
- If you need workers comp, business insurance, business auto, and commercial umbrella, Erie is the best carrier for you.
- If you only want a liability policy and some property coverage, Oswego County Mutual is fine for you.
- If you need a package of coverages, you should look at Erie, Main Street, or Hartford.
If you’re considering buying insurance for your small business in CNY, we’d be happy to help. Click the Get a Quote button below to get things started. One of our friendly insurance specialists will reach out to discuss your policy options.
And if you have employees, you’ll want to learn about short-term disability and paid family leave.
