NEXT tops our analysis of Ohio business insurance providers because of its strong customer service and comprehensive coverage. The Hartford and Simply Business are also reliable options for small business owners across the state.
Business Insurance in Ohio
NEXT tops our Ohio business insurance rankings with a MoneyGeek score of 4.64 out of 5.
Find affordable coverage that protects your small business in Ohio below.
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Updated: August 21, 2025
Advertising & Editorial Disclosure
Key Takeaways
Small business owners can get the best business insurance in Ohio from NEXT, The Hartford and Simply Business.
The best business insurance in Ohio depends on your industry risks, number of employees and specific coverage requirements.
To find the best coverage, assess your risks, compare multiple quotes, research provider service quality and maximize available discounts.
Best Business Insurance Companies in Ohio
| NEXT | 4.64 | 4 | 1 | 2 |
| The Hartford | 4.63 | 1 | 2 | 3 |
| Simply Business | 4.50 | 5 | 5 | 1 |
| Nationwide | 4.48 | 7 | 2 | 4 |
| Coverdash | 4.42 | 6 | 6 | 2 |
| biBERK | 4.39 | 8 | 2 | 5 |
| Progressive Commercial | 4.34 | 3 | 7 | 5 |
| Thimble | 4.31 | 2 | 8 | 5 |
| Hiscox | 4.28 | 7 | 4 | 6 |
| Chubb | 4.28 | 9 | 3 | 4 |
How Did We Determine These Rates?
These rates are for small businesses with two employees across 79 major industries or business types and focus on four coverage types: general liability, professional liability/E&O, workers' comp and business owner's policy. Survey results reflect limited sample data and may not represent all available rates in your area.
Best by Coverage Type
NEXT leads Ohio business coverage, offering the best business owner's policies (BOP), and professional liability insurance. The Hartford provides superior general liability coverage.
| Business Owners Policy | NEXT | 4.64 |
| General Liability | The Hartford | 4.62 |
| Professional Liability (E&O) | NEXT | 4.75 |
| Workers Compensation | NEXT | 4.60 |
How Did We Determine These Rates?
These rates are for small businesses with two employees across 79 major industries or business types and focus on four coverage types: general liability, professional liability/E&O, workers' comp and business owner's policy. Survey results reflect limited sample data and may not represent all available rates in your area.
Best Ohio Small Business Insurance Reviews
Our research team analyzed business insurance providers across Ohio to identify the top three options for small business owners. Here's what makes each company stand out for comprehensive coverage.
NEXT
Best Customer Experience
MoneyGeek Rating
4.6/ of 5
4.5/5Affordability
4.7/5Customer Experience
4.8/5Coverage Options
Average Monthly Cost of General Liability Insurance
$96These rates are for small businesses with two employees across 79 major industries or business types and focus solely on general liability policies.Average Monthly Cost of Workers' Comp Insurance
N/AThis rate is for small businesses with two employees across 79 major industries or business types and focus solely on workers' comp policies.Our Survey: Claims Process
3.9/5Ranked #4 nationallyOur Survey: Likely to Be Recommended to Others
4.8/5Ranked #1 nationally
The Hartford
Best for Affordability
MoneyGeek Rating
4.6/ of 5
4.6/5Affordability
4.6/5Customer Experience
4.7/5Coverage Options
Average Monthly Cost of General Liability Insurance
$76This rate is for small businesses with two employees across 79 major industries or business types and focus solely on general liability policies.Average Monthly Cost of Workers' Comp Insurance
N/AThis rate is for small businesses with two employees across 79 major industries or business types and focus solely on workers' comp policies.Our Survey: Claims Process
4.5/5Our Survey: Likely to Be Recommended to Others
4.5/5
Simply Business
Best for Coverage Availability
MoneyGeek Rating
4.5/ of 5
4.5/5Affordability
4.2/5Customer Experience
4.9/5Coverage Options
Average Monthly Cost of General Liability Insurance
$89This rate is for small businesses with two employees across 79 major industries or business types and focus solely on general liability policies.Average Monthly Cost of Workers' Comp Insurance
N/AThis rate is for small businesses with two employees across 79 major industries or business types and focus solely on workers' comp policies.Our Survey: Claims Process
3.7/5Our Survey: Likely to Be Recommended to Others
4.2/5
Cheapest Business Insurance Companies in Ohio
The Hartford provides the most affordable business insurance in Ohio at $82 monthly ($990 annually). Thimble and Simply Business follow with competitive rates of $94 and $97 per month. See the full breakdown of provider rates in the table below.
| The Hartford | $82 | $990 |
| Thimble | $94 | $1,127 |
| Simply Business | $97 | $1,170 |
| Progressive Commercial | $100 | $1,203 |
| Nationwide | $101 | $1,209 |
| NEXT | $102 | $1,227 |
| Coverdash | $102 | $1,228 |
| biBERK | $107 | $1,280 |
| Hiscox | $111 | $1,336 |
| Chubb | $119 | $1,432 |
How Did We Determine These Rates?
These rates are for small businesses with two employees across 79 major industries or business types and focus on four coverage types: general liability, professional liability/E&O, workers' comp and business owner's policy. Survey results reflect limited sample data and may not represent all available rates in your area.
Cheapest General Liability Insurance Companies in Ohio
Ohio businesses can find the cheapest general liability coverage through The Hartford at $76 per month. Simply Business offers the next lowest rate at $89 monthly. Compare all provider rates in the table below.
| The Hartford | $76 | $909 |
| Simply Business | $89 | $1,066 |
| Nationwide | $90 | $1,079 |
| Progressive Commercial | $93 | $1,112 |
| NEXT | $96 | $1,147 |
| Coverdash | $96 | $1,151 |
| Thimble | $100 | $1,195 |
| Hiscox | $106 | $1,272 |
| biBERK | $106 | $1,273 |
| Chubb | $110 | $1,323 |
How Did We Determine These Rates?
These rates are for small businesses with two employees across 79 major industries or business types and focus solely on general liability policies. Survey results reflect limited sample data and may not represent all available rates in your area.
Cheapest Professional Liability Insurance Companies in Ohio
The Hartford offers the most affordable professional liability insurance (E&O) at $66 monthly ($793 annually). NEXT is another budget-friendly choice for Buckeye State business owners.
| The Hartford | $66 | $793 |
| NEXT | $67 | $800 |
| Progressive Commercial | $70 | $835 |
| Simply Business | $71 | $846 |
| Thimble | $71 | $847 |
| Coverdash | $72 | $863 |
| Hiscox | $72 | $863 |
| biBERK | $74 | $891 |
| Nationwide | $77 | $918 |
| Chubb | $82 | $986 |
How Did We Determine These Rates?
These rates are for small businesses with two employees across 79 major industries or business types and focus solely on professional liability/errors and omissions policies. Survey results reflect limited sample data and may not represent all available rates in your area.
Cheapest BOP Insurance Companies in Ohio
The Hartford offers the cheapest BOP rates in Ohio, with monthly premiums of $106 ($1,266 annually). Business owners can also find affordable BOP insurance through Thimble, Simply Business and Nationwide.
| The Hartford | $106 | $1,266 |
| Thimble | $112 | $1,339 |
| Simply Business | $133 | $1,598 |
| Nationwide | $136 | $1,630 |
| Progressive Commercial | $138 | $1,660 |
| Coverdash | $139 | $1,671 |
| biBERK | $140 | $1,677 |
| NEXT | $145 | $1,734 |
| Hiscox | $156 | $1,872 |
| Chubb | $166 | $1,988 |
How Did We Determine These Rates?
These rates are for small businesses with two employees across 79 major industries or business types and focus solely on BOP policies. Survey results reflect limited sample data and may not represent all available rates in your area.
How Much Does Business Insurance Cost in Ohio?
Business insurance in Ohio costs between $72 and $137 monthly, with professional liability being the most affordable and a business owner's policies the most expensive. Rates vary based on the coverage type your business needs.
| BOP | $137 |
| General Liability | $96 |
| Professional Liability (E&O) | $72 |
How Did We Determine These Rates?
These rates are for small businesses with two employees across 79 major industries or business types and focus on four coverage types: general liability, professional liability/E&O, workers' comp and business owner's policy. Survey results reflect limited sample data and may not represent all available rates in your area.
Cost of Business Insurance by Industry and Coverage
Business insurance costs in Ohio vary significantly based on industry and coverage types. For example, drone operators pay just $16 monthly for general liability coverage, while pressure washing businesses need $1,249 monthly for a business owner's policy.
Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
Select
Coverage Type:Business Owners Policy
Select
Industry:Accountants
| Accountants | Business Owners Policy | $30 |
How Did We Determine These Rates?
These rates are for small businesses with two employees across 79 major industries or business types and focus on four coverage types: general liability, professional liability/E&O, workers' comp and business owner's policy. Survey results reflect limited sample data and may not represent all available rates in your area.
What Factors Influence My Costs?
Your Ohio business insurance premiums are affected by several key factors. Here's a breakdown of what influences your coverage costs:
Industry Risk Level
Your business type drives your insurance costs more than any other factor. A construction company pays much higher rates than a consulting firm because job sites have more accidents and injuries. A contractor might pay $500 monthly, while a consultant pays just $50 for similar coverage limits.
Geographic Location and Weather Risks
Your location in Ohio affects your insurance costs. According to NOAA data, Ohio ranks 6th nationally for severe weather events, with tornadoes and severe storms causing millions in business damage annually. Insurance companies factor these risks into local rates, especially for property coverage.
Business Size
Your workforce size directly impacts your insurance costs. Workers' comp rates increase with each $100 of payroll, while liability costs rise with higher revenue and customer traffic. A retail store with 20 employees pays substantially more than a solo freelancer working from home.
Claims History
Your claims record follows your business for years and can quickly increase your premiums. Even one liability claim affects rates across multiple coverage types. Insurers offer better pricing to businesses that maintain claim-free records.
Coverage Types and Limits
Your coverage choices shape your premium costs. Higher coverage limits increase rates, but bundling options like business owner's policies combine multiple coverages at lower rates than buying separate policies.
Years in Business
New businesses start with higher premiums since insurers lack data to evaluate their risk level. Operating claim-free for several years helps reduce your rates as you build a reliable track record.
Professional Certifications
Safety certifications and professional licenses can reduce your insurance costs, especially in high-risk industries. Many insurers offer discounts for OSHA certifications and industry-specific training that shows commitment to accident prevention.
Ohio Business Insurance Buying Guide
Getting business insurance can feel overwhelming when you're focused on running your business. We understand that Ohio business owners have a lot on their plates. That's why we created a simple guide to help you confidently navigate insurance decisions.
What Coverage Is Required?
We've researched all Ohio business insurance requirements to save you time. Find a complete breakdown of your business's coverage needs in the section below.
Workers' Comp
Ohio requires workers' compensation insurance for most businesses through an exclusive state-run system called the Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation. You must carry workers' comp if you have one or more employees, including part-time and seasonal workers. Ohio businesses must buy coverage through the state fund. Corporate officers can opt out if they own at least 10% of the company, and sole proprietors and business partners are exempt unless they choose coverage. The state system provides comprehensive coverage but limits your insurance options.
Commercial Auto Insurance
Small businesses that own vehicles or require employees to drive for work need commercial auto insurance. Ohio requires all vehicles to carry at least $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, plus $25,000 for property damage. These are moderate minimums, though businesses should consider higher limits for better financial protection.
Unemployment Insurance
Ohio requires unemployment insurance for businesses that pay wages of $1,500 or more in any quarter or employ one or more workers for 20 weeks during a calendar year. You must register with the Ohio Department of Commerce and pay quarterly contributions based on your payroll and experience rating.
Professional Liability Insurance
If you hold a professional license in Ohio for medical, legal, architectural or engineering work, you'll typically need professional liability insurance. Healthcare providers must carry malpractice coverage, while other professionals should check with their licensing boards for specific requirements. The coverage amounts vary by profession and practice type.
Contractor Bonds and Insurance
If you hold a contractor license in Ohio, you'll need to carry liability insurance and may need to post a surety bond depending on your work type. General contractors typically need at least $100,000 in liability coverage, while specialty contractors have varying requirements. Home improvement contractors may need additional bonding to protect customers if you don't complete work as promised or follow licensing rules.
What Coverage Do We Recommend?
Ohio keeps business insurance regulations light, which means you need to choose your coverage carefully. We've analyzed the best insurance options for the state's leading industries:
Manufacturing | General liability, product liability, workers' compensation, commercial property, business interruption, automotive supply chain coverage, tornado coverage, environmental liability, ice storm protection | Ohio automotive, steel and machinery manufacturers face product liability from safety-critical components and supply chain disruptions. Tornado damage and ice storms can shut down operations, while environmental liability from historical industrial sites creates cleanup costs. |
Trucking | Commercial auto, cargo coverage, general liability, workers' compensation, tornado coverage, ice storm coverage, I-70/I-75 corridor coverage, automotive parts transport, hazmat transportation | Ohio trucking companies navigate major interstate crossroads with high accident rates and serve automotive supply chains. Ice storms and tornadoes create cargo damage risks, while just-in-time automotive delivery creates time-sensitive liability exposure. |
Food | General liability, product liability, commercial property, equipment breakdown, business interruption, contamination coverage, recall coverage, tornado coverage, agricultural processing coverage | Ohio food processors handle corn, soybeans, dairy and meat products with contamination risks and recall liability. Tornado damage can trigger widespread contamination, while severe weather power outages can spoil inventories and compromise food safety. |
Construction/Contractor | General liability, workers' compensation, commercial auto, builder's risk, professional liability, tornado coverage, ice storm coverage, industrial facility construction, environmental remediation | Ohio construction faces tornado damage, ice storm delays and environmental liability from historical contamination. Industrial facility construction requires specialized coverage for automotive plants and manufacturing facilities with complex safety and environmental requirements. |
How to Get the Best Cheap Business Insurance in Ohio
Running a small business in Ohio means juggling many expenses, including insurance costs. Here are proven strategies to secure quality coverage while keeping your premium payments manageable:
- 1
Assess your business risks
Look at what could harm your Ohio business, not what insurance agents push you to buy. A Columbus restaurant needs strong property and liability coverage, while a Cleveland consulting firm might focus on professional liability protection.
- 2
Compare multiple insurance quotes
Insurance companies calculate risks differently, leading to varying prices for the same coverage. Contact at least three providers to find the best rates for your Ohio business. Local agents often know state regulations better than national carriers.
- 3
Evaluate insurance provider quality
Research each company's financial strength and claim payment history before choosing. An Akron manufacturing company needs an insurer with industrial expertise, while a Cincinnati retail store wants quick response times for property damage claims.
- 4
Use available discounts
Combine policies and maintain good safety records to reduce costs. An Ohio trucking company can save by bundling commercial auto with general liability coverage and documenting driver safety training.
- 5
Review coverage yearly
Business needs change with growth and new services. A Toledo startup that began with basic liability coverage might need cyber insurance and workers compensation as it adds employees and online services.
Ohio Business Insurance: Bottom Line
Based on our analysis, NEXT, The Hartford and Simply Business are Ohio's best business insurance providers. However, what's ideal for you depends on your business risks and employee needs. Research each company's service quality, maximize discounts and select coverage that fits your budget.
Small Business Insurance in Ohio: FAQ
Finding the right business insurance in Ohio raises many questions for small business owners. Below, we answer the most frequently asked questions:
What business insurance is required by law in Ohio?
Ohio requires workers' compensation for businesses with one or more employees. Commercial auto insurance is mandatory for business vehicles with minimum limits of $25,000/$50,000/$25,000. Some contractors need surety bonds.
How much does business insurance cost in Ohio?
Our analysis shows that business insurance costs range from $72 to $137 monthly, depending on coverage. Professional liability is the cheapest at $72, while BOPs cost $137. Actual costs depend on your industry, business size and claims history.
Which company has the cheapest business insurance in Ohio?
The Hartford offers the lowest rates at $82 monthly in Ohio, with Thimble ($94) and Simply Business ($97) following behind. Compare multiple quotes since rates vary by business-specific risks.
What business insurance do I need for my small business in Ohio?
Begin with general liability insurance to protect against customer injuries and property damage. Include workers' compensation for employees and commercial auto for company vehicles. A restaurant needs property coverage, while contractors require equipment protection.
What is the best business insurance company in Ohio?
NEXT leads business insurance providers in Ohio with a MoneyGeek score of 4.64 out of 5.0. The Hartford and Simply Business are also excellent choices. Compare multiple providers to find coverage that matches your business requirements.
Do small businesses in Ohio need workers' compensation insurance?
Yes, Ohio businesses with employees must carry workers' compensation insurance. It's mandatory through the state-run program, with few exceptions for very small companies or self-employed individuals.
What factors affect business insurance costs in Ohio?
Your industry type significantly impacts costs. Construction businesses pay higher premiums than consulting firms. Location within Ohio affects rates, with urban areas typically costing more. Employee count drives workers' compensation costs, while claim history and safety training influence rates.
How do I get cheap business insurance in Ohio?
Compare quotes from top insurers like NEXT and The Hartford. Bundle multiple policies, implement safety programs and assess your exact coverage needs to secure better rates.
What's the difference between general liability and errors and omissions (professional liability) insurance in Ohio?
General liability insurance protects against physical incidents like customer injuries and property damage. Professional liability (E&O) covers service-related mistakes, including missed deadlines and incorrect advice. Service businesses typically need both coverages.
Can I get business insurance quotes online in Ohio?
Yes, leading providers offer online business insurance quotes in Ohio. Have your business information ready for accurate quotes, though complex businesses may need an agent for specialized coverage.
How We Scored the Best Business Insurance Companies in Ohio
Small business owners in Ohio need reliable coverage that protects their operations without breaking their budgets. We designed our methodology to help Ohio entrepreneurs navigate challenges like hurricane risks and the state's mandatory workers' compensation laws.
We studied thousands of quotes from 79 industries across four coverage types for a two-employee firm with $300,000 annual revenue and $150,000 payroll. All policies included $1 million per occurrence and $2 million total per year, with BOPs adding $5,000 business property coverage.
- Affordability (50% of score): We compared premiums across multiple carriers, looking at both initial costs and potential discounts. This major factor reflects the impact of insurance expenses on your bottom line.
- Customer experience (30% of score): Our analysis covered claims processing speed, customer service availability and digital tools. We evaluated how well each insurer serves business clients.
- Coverage options (15% of score): We assessed policy customization options, industry-specific endorsements and coverage limits. This helps ensure your business gets appropriate protection.
- Financial strength (5% of score): We reviewed AM Best ratings and other stability metrics to confirm each insurer can reliably pay claims.
This approach helps Ohio small business owners compare insurers on what matters most: affordable premiums, reliable service, adequate coverage and financial stability.
About Mark Fitzpatrick
Mark Fitzpatrick, a Licensed Property and Casualty Insurance Producer, is MoneyGeek's resident Personal Finance Expert. With over five years of experience analyzing the insurance market, he conducts original research and creates tailored content for all types of buyers. His insights have been featured in publications like CNBC, NBC News and Mashable.
Fitzpatrick holds a master’s degree in economics and international relations from Johns Hopkins University and a bachelor’s degree from Boston College. He's also a five-time Jeopardy champion!
Passionate about economics and insurance, he aims to promote transparency in financial topics and empower others to make confident money decisions.
sources
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- NEXT. "NEXT Empowers Agents with Enhanced Products, Cutting-Edge Digital Tools, Opening New Revenue Opportunities and Sparking Momentum in Small Business Insurance." Accessed August 21, 2025.
- Simply Business. "Simply Business Offers Insurance to Third-Party Sellers Through Amazon Insurance Accelerator." Accessed August 21, 2025.
- The Hartford. "Customer Claims Ratings and Reviews." Accessed August 21, 2025.
- Trustpilot. "NEXT." Accessed August 21, 2025.
- Trustpilot. "Simply Business US." Accessed August 21, 2025.
- Trustpilot. "The Hartford." Accessed August 21, 2025.