NEXT tops our analysis of Vermont 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 Vermont
NEXT tops our Vermont business insurance rankings with a MoneyGeek score of 4.62 out of 5.
Find affordable coverage that protects your small business in Vermont below.
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Updated: September 22, 2025
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Key Takeaways
NEXT, The Hartford and Simply Business offer Vermont business owners the most reliable insurance coverage options based on MoneyGeek's analysis.
The best business insurance in Vermont depends on your industry risks, number of employees and desired coverage limits.
To find the best coverage, assess your risks, compare multiple quotes, research provider service quality and maximize available discounts.
Best Business Insurance Companies in Vermont
| NEXT | 4.62 | 4 | 1 | 2 |
| The Hartford | 4.61 | 1 | 2 | 3 |
| Simply Business | 4.49 | 3 | 5 | 1 |
| Nationwide | 4.48 | 6 | 2 | 4 |
| Coverdash | 4.41 | 5 | 6 | 2 |
| biBERK | 4.38 | 8 | 2 | 5 |
| Progressive Commercial | 4.33 | 2 | 7 | 5 |
| Thimble | 4.30 | 1 | 8 | 5 |
| Hiscox | 4.27 | 7 | 4 | 6 |
| Chubb | 4.26 | 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
The Hartford leads Vermont businesses with the best general liability coverage and business owner's policies (BOP). NEXT stands out for professional liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage.
| Business Owners Policy | The Hartford | 4.68 |
| General Liability | The Hartford | 4.63 |
| Professional Liability (E&O) | NEXT | 4.71 |
| Workers Compensation | NEXT | 4.61 |
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 Vermont Small Business Insurance Reviews
Our research identified the top three business insurance providers in Vermont based on coverage options, rates and customer service. Here's what makes each company excel at protecting the state's enterprises.
NEXT
Best Customer Experience
MoneyGeek Rating
4.6/ 5
4.4/5Affordability
4.7/5Customer Experience
4.8/5Coverage Options
Average Monthly Cost of General Liability Insurance
$99This 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
$66This 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 4th nationallyOur Survey: Likely to Be Recommended to Others
4.8/5Ranked 1st nationally
The Hartford
Best for Affordability
MoneyGeek Rating
4.6/ 5
4.6/5Affordability
4.6/5Customer Experience
4.7/5Coverage Options
Average Monthly Cost of General Liability Insurance
$78This 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
$67This 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/ 5
4.4/5Affordability
4.2/5Customer Experience
4.9/5Coverage Options
Average Monthly Cost of General Liability Insurance
$92This 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
$69This 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 Vermont
The Hartford provides the most affordable business insurance in Vermont at $80 monthly ($965 annually). Thimble and Simply Business follow with competitive rates of $90 and $93 per month. Compare coverage options and rates from these leading providers in the table below.
| The Hartford | $80 | $965 |
| Thimble | $90 | $1,079 |
| Simply Business | $93 | $1,113 |
| Progressive Commercial | $95 | $1,138 |
| NEXT | $96 | $1,155 |
| Coverdash | $97 | $1,160 |
| Nationwide | $97 | $1,167 |
| biBERK | $100 | $1,200 |
| Hiscox | $103 | $1,239 |
| Chubb | $113 | $1,354 |
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 Vermont
Vermont business owners can find the cheapest general liability coverage through The Hartford at $78 per month. Simply Business offers the next lowest rate at $92 monthly. You can compare rates from all providers in the table below.
| The Hartford | $78 | $941 |
| Simply Business | $92 | $1,103 |
| Nationwide | $93 | $1,117 |
| Progressive Commercial | $96 | $1,152 |
| NEXT | $99 | $1,187 |
| Coverdash | $99 | $1,191 |
| Thimble | $103 | $1,236 |
| Hiscox | $110 | $1,315 |
| biBERK | $110 | $1,316 |
| Chubb | $114 | $1,369 |
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 Vermont
The Hartford offers the most affordable professional liability insurance (E&O) in Vermont at $69 monthly ($823 annually). NEXT provides another budget-friendly option for businesses in the state.
| The Hartford | $69 | $823 |
| NEXT | $69 | $833 |
| Progressive Commercial | $72 | $865 |
| Simply Business | $73 | $880 |
| Thimble | $73 | $881 |
| Coverdash | $74 | $887 |
| Hiscox | $74 | $888 |
| biBERK | $77 | $919 |
| Nationwide | $79 | $943 |
| Chubb | $85 | $1,022 |
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 Workers’ Comp Insurance Companies in Vermont
NEXT offers the cheapest workers' comp rates in Vermont at $66 monthly ($797 annually). The Hartford and Thimble provide similarly competitive rates, making all three solid choices for affordable business coverage.
| NEXT | $66 | $797 |
| The Hartford | $67 | $799 |
| Thimble | $67 | $808 |
| Progressive Commercial | $69 | $823 |
| Simply Business | $69 | $824 |
| Hiscox | $69 | $825 |
| Coverdash | $70 | $837 |
| biBERK | $72 | $862 |
| Nationwide | $78 | $931 |
| Chubb | $81 | $976 |
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 workers’ comp policies. Survey results reflect limited sample data and may not represent all available rates in your area.
Cheapest BOP Insurance Companies in Vermont
The Hartford offers the cheapest BOP rates in Vermont at $108 per month ($1,297 annually). Business owners can also find affordable BOP insurance with Thimble, Simply Business and Nationwide.
| The Hartford | $108 | $1,297 |
| Thimble | $116 | $1,391 |
| Simply Business | $137 | $1,646 |
| Nationwide | $140 | $1,678 |
| biBERK | $142 | $1,704 |
| Progressive Commercial | $143 | $1,713 |
| Coverdash | $144 | $1,724 |
| NEXT | $150 | $1,802 |
| Hiscox | $161 | $1,928 |
| Chubb | $171 | $2,049 |
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 Vermont?
Business insurance in Vermont costs between $71 and $141 monthly, with workers' compensation being the most affordable and business owner's policies the most expensive. Rates vary based on the coverage type your business needs.
| BOP | $141 |
| General Liability | $99 |
| Professional Liability (E&O) | $75 |
| Workers Comp | $71 |
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 Vermont vary widely based on industry and coverage types. Our research shows workers' compensation for speech therapists costs just $6 monthly, while pressure washing businesses pay $1,277 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 | $31 |
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 Vermont business insurance premiums are influenced by several factors. Here are the key elements that affect your insurance costs:
Industry Risk Level
Your business type drives insurance costs more than any other factor. Due to workplace hazards, construction companies in Vermont pay much higher rates than consultants. For example, a Vermont construction firm might pay $500 monthly for coverage, while an accounting firm typically pays under $50.
Geographic Location and Weather Risks
Vermont's location and weather patterns affect your insurance costs. According to NOAA data, Vermont faces regular threats from severe winter storms, spring flooding, and occasional tornadoes. These weather risks influence property coverage rates, particularly in flood-prone areas near rivers.
Business Size
Your company's size directly impacts insurance costs. A retail store with 15 employees pays more than a solo consultant because workers' compensation rates are calculated per $100 of payroll. More employees and higher revenue mean greater liability exposure.
Claims History
Your claims record shapes future premiums. Filing multiple claims signals higher risk to insurers, leading to rate increases across all your coverage types. A clean claims history helps you secure better rates and more coverage options.
Coverage Types and Limits
Your coverage choices determine your premium costs. Higher liability limits increase rates but provide better protection. Many Vermont businesses save money with Business Owner's Policies, which bundle property and liability coverage at lower rates than purchasing separately.
Years in Business
New Vermont businesses start with higher premiums since insurers lack data to assess their risk level. Operating claim-free for several years helps establish a positive track record, often leading to lower rates and better coverage options.
Professional Certifications
Industry certifications and safety training can reduce your insurance costs. Vermont insurers often offer rate discounts for OSHA certifications, professional licenses, and documented safety programs that show commitment to risk management.
Vermont Business Insurance Buying Guide
Running a business takes all your attention, and getting business insurance shouldn't add to your stress. Our guide breaks down everything Vermont business owners need to know about coverage options and requirements.
What Coverage Is Required?
We've researched all Vermont business insurance requirements to save you time. Find a complete breakdown of what coverage your business needs below.
Workers' Comp
Vermont requires workers' compensation insurance for most businesses, with one of the strictest enforcement systems in the country. You must carry workers' comp if you have one or more employees, including part-time and seasonal workers. Vermont has strict rules: corporate officers and LLC members who work in the business are automatically covered and cannot opt out unless they meet specific criteria. Even sole proprietors in construction and certain other industries must carry coverage. The state conducts regular compliance checks and imposes penalties for violations.
Commercial Auto Insurance
Small businesses that own vehicles or require employees to drive for work need commercial auto insurance. Vermont requires all vehicles to carry at least $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, plus $10,000 for property damage. You'll also need uninsured motorist coverage at the same limits, which protects you if you're hit by a driver without insurance.
Unemployment Insurance
Vermont 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 Vermont Department of Labor and pay quarterly contributions based on your payroll and experience rating.
Professional Liability Insurance
If you hold a professional license in Vermont for medical, legal, architectural or engineering work, you'll need professional liability insurance. Healthcare providers must carry malpractice coverage with minimum amounts that vary by specialty, while other professionals should check with their licensing boards for specific requirements.
Contractor Bonds and Insurance
If you hold a contractor license in Vermont, 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 registration and bonding requirements to protect customers if you don't complete work as promised or follow licensing rules.
What Coverage Do We Recommend?
Vermont keeps business insurance regulations minimal, which means you must choose your coverage carefully. Here's our analysis of the best insurance coverage for state's key industries:
Food | General liability, product liability, commercial property, equipment breakdown, business interruption, organic certification coverage, artisan food liability, maple syrup processing, ice storm coverage | Vermont food producers handle organic products, artisan cheese, maple syrup and craft foods with risks associated with organic certification and contamination liability. Ice storms can disrupt power and refrigeration, while organic decertification creates substantial financial losses. |
Manufacturing | General liability, product liability, workers' compensation, commercial property, business interruption, craft manufacturing coverage, ice storm protection, flood coverage, environmental liability | Vermont manufacturers in furniture, machinery and specialty products face ice storm power outages, flooding, and environmental compliance. Craft manufacturing requires specialized coverage for small-batch production and artisan quality claims. |
Construction/Contractor | General liability, workers' compensation, commercial auto, builder's risk, professional liability, ice storm coverage, flood coverage, ski resort construction, green building certification | Vermont construction faces ice storms, flooding and short building seasons due to harsh winters. Ski resort construction requires specialized coverage for mountain terrain and seasonal access limitations, while green building projects need LEED certification compliance coverage. |
Retail | General liability, commercial property, business interruption, ice storm coverage, tourism liability, craft product retail, organic food retail, seasonal operations, Vermont product authenticity | Vermont retailers face ice storm business interruptions, seasonal tourism fluctuations and specialized liability from Vermont-made craft products. Authenticity claims and organic product liability create unique coverage needs for locally-sourced merchandise. |
How to Get the Best Cheap Business Insurance in Vermont
Finding the right Vermont business insurance coverage feels overwhelming when running a small operation. You can cut through the noise and secure financial protection that fits your budget and business needs using these steps:
- 1
Assess Your Business Risks
Start by evaluating your Vermont business's risks rather than purchasing standard packages. A Burlington retail store needs coverage that is different from that of a Montpelier consulting firm, focusing on slip-and-fall protection versus professional liability coverage.
- 2
Compare Multiple Insurance Quotes
Insurance costs vary between providers in Vermont. Contact at least three insurers and compare their offerings for your business type. A small maple syrup producer might find rates varying by $1,000 or more annually for the same coverage.
- 3
Evaluate Insurance Provider Quality
Look beyond price when selecting coverage in Vermont. Check each insurer's financial strength ratings and read reviews from other local business owners. A ski resort operator needs an insurer with strong winter sports coverage experience and prompt claims processing.
- 4
Apply Available Discounts
Many Vermont insurers offer multi-policy discounts and safety program incentives. A local restaurant can save by bundling property and liability coverage while maintaining detailed safety protocols. Ask about industry-specific discounts for your business type.
- 5
Schedule Annual Coverage Reviews
Vermont businesses evolve, and so should their insurance coverage. A small craft brewery expanding distribution needs updated coverage limits and additional liability protection. Regular reviews ensure you're not overpaying for unnecessary coverage or underprotected as your business grows.
Vermont Business Insurance: Bottom Line
Based on our analysis, NEXT, The Hartford and Simply Business are Vermont'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 Vermont: FAQ
Small business owners in Vermont often have questions about choosing the right insurance coverage. Our insurance experts answer the most common questions below.
What business insurance is required by law in Vermont?
Vermont businesses must carry workers' compensation insurance if they have employees. Commercial auto insurance is required for business vehicles with minimum limits of $25,000/$50,000/$10,000. Professional licenses may require additional coverage.
How much does business insurance cost in Vermont?
Vermont requires workers' compensation insurance for businesses with employees. Self-employed individuals and single-member LLCs are exempt.
Business insurance costs in Vermont range from $71 to $141 monthly, depending on coverage. Workers' compensation is the lowest at $71, while BOPs are highest at $141. Actual costs depend on your industry, business size and claims history.
Which company has the cheapest business insurance in Vermont?
The Hartford offers the lowest rates at $80 monthly in Vermont, with Thimble ($90) and Simply Business ($93) following behind. Compare multiple quotes since rates depend on business-specific factors.
What business insurance do I need for my small business in Vermont?
Begin with general liability insurance to protect against customer injuries and property damage. Get workers' compensation for employees and commercial auto for company vehicles. Retail stores need property coverage, while contractors require equipment protection and builder's risk insurance.
What is the best business insurance company in Vermont?
NEXT leads Vermont's business insurance market with a MoneyGeek score of 4.62 out of 5. The Hartford and Simply Business are also excellent choices. Consider comparing multiple providers to find coverage that matches your business requirements.
Do small businesses in Vermont need workers' compensation insurance?
Yes, Vermont requires workers' compensation insurance for most businesses with employees. One workplace injury claim could financially devastate a small business without proper coverage.
What factors affect business insurance costs in Vermont?
Your industry has the biggest impact on insurance costs. Construction businesses pay higher premiums than consulting firms. Location affects rates, with northern Vermont areas paying more due to winter risks. Employee count drives workers' comp costs, while claim history and safety programs influence rates.
How do I get cheap business insurance in Vermont?
Assess your business risks carefully before shopping for coverage. Compare quotes from top-rated insurers like NEXT and The Hartford. Bundle policies and implement safety programs to secure better rates.
What's the difference between general liability and errors and omissions (professional liability) insurance in Vermont?
General liability insurance protects against physical injuries and property damage to others. Professional liability (E&O) covers financial losses from service-related mistakes, poor advice or missed deadlines.
Can I get business insurance quotes online in Vermont?
Yes, you can get online quotes from top insurance providers in Vermont. For complex businesses requiring specialized coverage, working with an agent may be necessary.
How We Scored the Best Business Insurance Companies in Vermont
Small business owners in Vermont need reliable coverage that protects their operations without breaking their budgets. We designed our methodology to help Vermont entrepreneurs navigate challenges like winter weather risks and the state's required 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 analyze premium costs across multiple industries and coverage types, comparing rates for similar coverage levels to identify insurers offering the best value.
- Customer experience (30% of score): We evaluate claims processing speed, customer support quality and digital tools based on verified policyholder feedback.
- Coverage options (15% of score): We assess policy customization options, industry-specific endorsements and coverage limit flexibility.
- Financial strength (5% of score): We review AM Best ratings and other financial stability indicators to ensure reliable claims payment ability.
This approach helps Vermont 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.
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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 19, 2025.
- Simply Business. "Simply Business Offers Insurance to Third-Party Sellers Through Amazon Insurance Accelerator." Accessed August 19, 2025.
- The Hartford. "Customer Claims Ratings and Reviews." Accessed August 19, 2025.
- Trustpilot. "NEXT." Accessed August 19, 2025.
- Trustpilot. "Simply Business US." Accessed August 19, 2025.
- Trustpilot. "The Hartford." Accessed August 19, 2025.