Next Insurance vs Simply Business: Which Small Business Insurance Provider Is Right for You?

Need the Quick Answer?

Winner: It depends on your business type

Choose Next Insurance if: You're a solopreneur or micro-business in construction, fitness, photography, or consulting who wants instant coverage at budget-friendly prices ($200-$300/year for GL).
Choose Simply Business if: You need to compare quotes from multiple carriers, have unique coverage needs, or want access to traditional insurance companies with proven claims handling.

Key Difference: Next Insurance is a direct carrier (faster, standardized). Simply Business is a broker (more options, customizable).

Get instant quotes from top carriers →

Quick Comparison Table

Feature	Next Insurance	Simply Business
Business Model	Direct carrier	Insurance broker
GL Pricing	$200-$300/year (low-risk)	Varies by carrier
Quote Speed	Instant (minutes)	Same-day (comparison)
Best For	Solopreneurs, specific industries	Businesses wanting carrier options
Carrier Options	1 (Next only)	Multiple carriers
Claims Handling	Digital-first, Next adjusters	Handled by underlying carrier

Understanding the Two Providers
Coverage Options Comparison
Pricing Breakdown
Business Owner's Policy (BOP)
Technology & User Experience
Claims Process
Industry Specialization
Which Should You Choose?

Choosing the right insurance provider can feel overwhelming when you're running a small business. With more than half million U.S. entrepreneurs starting a business each month, the demand for accessible, affordable business insurance has never been higher. Two popular digital-first options—Next Insurance and Simply Business—have emerged as go-to solutions for small business owners seeking streamlined coverage. [1]

This comprehensive comparison breaks down the key differences between these two providers, helping you make an informed decision about protecting your business.

Understanding the Two Providers

Before diving into the details, it's important to understand what sets these companies apart at a fundamental level.

Next Insurance launched in 2016 as a digital-first insurtech company designed specifically for small businesses. The platform operates entirely online, offering fast quotes and instant policy issuance for specific industries. Next Insurance functions as a direct carrier, meaning they underwrite and issue policies themselves.

Simply Business takes a different approach. Simply Business is a digital broker and agency for small business insurance, launched in 2005 as an online broker for business insurance. Rather than acting as a carrier, Simply Business connects business owners with multiple insurance companies, functioning as a marketplace [2].

In August 2017, The Travelers Companies acquired the company from Aquiline Capital Partners for approximately $490 million, giving it the backing of one of the nation's largest insurers [2].

Key Takeaway: This fundamental difference—carrier versus broker—shapes everything from pricing to coverage options to customer service. Next sells only their own policies; Simply Business shops multiple carriers on your behalf.

⚡ Why use a brokerage platform instead of buying direct? These carriers let you buy directly — but you'll only see that one carrier's price. A brokerage platform like Insura shops 10+ carriers behind the scenes to find the lowest rate for your exact business. The price you pay is the same whether you buy direct or through a broker — carriers pay the broker's commission, not you.

Coverage Options and Flexibility

When it comes to the types of insurance available, both platforms offer the essential coverages small businesses need, but with different levels of flexibility.

Next Insurance Coverage

Next Insurance specializes in providing straightforward policies for specific industries. Their coverage types include:

General liability insurance
Professional liability (errors and omissions)
Commercial property insurance
Workers' compensation
Tools and equipment coverage
Commercial auto insurance (limited industries)

Their general liability policies often start around $200-$300 annually for low-risk businesses like consultants or photographers. Next typically offers standardized packages, with $1 million per occurrence and $2 million aggregate limits being common [3].

The platform has developed specialized policies for trades including contractors, cleaning services, photographers, consultants, personal trainers, and IT professionals. If your business falls within their target industries, you'll find tailored coverage options designed specifically for your risk profile.

Simply Business Coverage

As a broker, Simply Business offers access to policies from multiple insurance carriers. This marketplace approach provides several advantages:

Broader range of coverage options
Access to multiple carriers' policies
Ability to compare quotes from different insurers
More customization possibilities
Coverage for businesses that might not fit Next's standardized approach

In 2021, Simply Business was selected to participate in the Amazon Insurance Accelerator Program to distribute general liability coverage to Amazon sellers, demonstrating their ability to serve niche markets [2].

The broker model means Simply Business can often find coverage for businesses with unique needs or higher-risk profiles that might not qualify for Next Insurance's standardized policies. For more information on understanding different coverage types, check out our guide on what does general liability insurance cover for small business.

Coverage Type	Next Insurance	Simply Business
General Liability	✓ Standardized	✓ Multiple carriers
Professional Liability	✓ Select industries	✓ Broad industries
Workers' Comp	✓ Limited states	✓ All states via carriers
BOP (Bundled)	✓ Streamlined packages	✓ Customizable options
Commercial Auto	✓ Limited industries	✓ Via partner carriers

Get instant quotes from top carriers →

Pricing and Affordability

Cost is often the deciding factor for small business owners, particularly those operating on tight margins.

Next Insurance Pricing

Next Insurance has built its reputation on transparent, affordable pricing.

Next Insurance typically positions itself as the budget-friendly option for micro-businesses and sole proprietors, with general liability policies often starting around $200-$300 annually for low-risk businesses like consultants or photographers [3].

For professional liability coverage, professional liability coverage through Next can range from $300-$800 per year for service-based businesses. Their Business Owner's Policy (BOP) packages, which bundle multiple coverages, typically range from $500-$1,500 annually, making them attractive for startups and solopreneurs [3].

The platform provides instant quotes without requiring lengthy phone calls or agent meetings, making the pricing process transparent from the start.

Simply Business Pricing

Simply Business pricing varies more widely since they're comparing quotes from multiple carriers. This can work in your favor—the competition among carriers may result in lower prices, or you might find that certain carriers offer better rates for your specific business type.

Because Simply Business works with traditional insurance companies, their pricing may be higher for some businesses, particularly those in very low-risk categories. However, for businesses with more complex needs or those in higher-risk industries, the ability to shop multiple carriers can result in more competitive pricing than a single direct carrier could offer.

Price Comparison Tip: Next Insurance works best when you fit their target profile perfectly. Simply Business shines when you have unique needs or want leverage through carrier competition. Get quotes from both to see which saves you more.

Understanding your business's insurance needs is crucial for getting accurate quotes. Our article on how much is business insurance provides detailed insights into cost factors.

Policy Type	Next Insurance (Annual)	Simply Business (Annual)
General Liability (Low-Risk)	$200-$300	$250-$400 (varies by carrier)
Professional Liability	$300-$800	$400-$1,000+
BOP Package	$500-$1,500	$600-$2,000+

The Business Owner's Policy (BOP) Comparison

A business owner's policy - sometimes called a BOP - is a "package" product that typically includes property, business interruption/continuation and liability insurance, and for many small businesses, purchasing a BOP can be a less costly option than buying individual policies [1].

Both Next Insurance and Simply Business offer BOP options, but with different approaches:

Next Insurance BOPs are standardized packages designed for quick purchase. They work best for home-based businesses, service providers, and low-risk operations. The streamlined approach means less customization but faster policy issuance.

Simply Business BOPs come from various carriers, offering more customization options. Many insurers also customize BOPs for specific types of businesses, and Simply Business's marketplace model gives you access to these specialized options [1].

Companies with 100 or less employees with revenues of up to $5 million or less are eligible for these plans, and it is estimated that between 30-40% of small business owners carry business interruption insurance [4].

User Experience and Technology

In today's digital age, the ease of obtaining and managing insurance matters significantly.

Next Insurance Platform

Next Insurance operates entirely through its digital platform and mobile app. The user experience emphasizes:

Instant online quotes (typically in minutes)
Immediate policy issuance
Mobile app for policy management
Digital certificate of insurance generation
Online claims filing and tracking
Pay-as-you-go options for some policies

The platform is designed for business owners who prefer self-service and want to avoid traditional agent interactions. Everything from quote to purchase to claims can be handled digitally.

Simply Business Platform

Simply Business also offers a digital experience, but with a different flavor:

Online quote comparison from multiple carriers
Access to licensed insurance advisors
Digital policy management
Certificate of insurance generation
Phone support available
Broker assistance for complex needs

The hybrid approach—digital tools combined with human expertise—appeals to business owners who want technology's convenience but appreciate having expert guidance available when needed.

User Experience Winner: Next Insurance wins for pure speed and simplicity. Simply Business wins if you value human guidance alongside digital tools.

Get instant quotes from top carriers →

Claims Process and Customer Service

The true test of any insurance provider comes when you need to file a claim.

Next Insurance Claims

Next Insurance handles claims through their mobile app and online portal. They assign dedicated claims adjusters to each case and emphasize quick response times. The digital-first approach means you can submit documentation through your phone and track claim status in real-time.

However, as a newer company, Next Insurance has less historical claims data and may have fewer resources compared to established carriers. Some business owners appreciate the streamlined digital process, while others prefer more traditional claims handling.

Simply Business Claims

Since Simply Business is a broker, claims are actually handled by the underlying insurance carrier. This can be an advantage—you're getting claims service from established insurance companies with decades of experience and robust claims departments.

The quality of claims service will depend on which carrier underwrites your policy. Major carriers accessible through Simply Business typically have extensive claims networks, 24/7 claims reporting, and substantial financial resources to pay claims promptly.

Claims Feature	Next Insurance	Simply Business
Claims Filing	Mobile app + online portal	Via underlying carrier
Adjuster Assignment	Next Insurance adjusters	Carrier adjusters (varies)
24/7 Reporting	Yes (digital)	Depends on carrier
Claim Tracking	Real-time app updates	Carrier portal access
Financial Strength	Newer company (since 2016)	Established carriers (decades)

Industry Specialization

Your business type significantly impacts which provider might be the better fit.

Next Insurance Specializes In:

Contractors & Trades:

General contractors
Electricians
Plumbers
HVAC technicians
Painters
Landscapers

Service Businesses:

Photographers and videographers
Event planners
Personal trainers and fitness instructors
Cleaning services
IT consultants
Graphic designers

Professional Services:

Real estate agents
Marketing consultants
Business consultants

If you fall into these categories, Next's specialized policies are designed specifically for your industry's risks, often resulting in better coverage at lower prices.

Simply Business Works Well For:

Broader Range of Industries:

Retail stores
Restaurants and food service
Professional services (legal, accounting, medical)
Manufacturing
Wholesale
Amazon sellers and e-commerce
Businesses with unique or complex risks

Simply Business's broker model means they can find coverage for industries that don't fit Next's standardized approach. This includes businesses with higher revenue, more employees, or specialized coverage needs.

Industry Match Matters: If you're a contractor, photographer, or fitness trainer, Next's specialized policies are hard to beat. If you run a restaurant, retail store, or have unique needs, Simply Business's carrier network offers more flexibility.

Which Provider Should You Choose?

After comparing these two providers across multiple dimensions, here's how to decide:

Choose Next Insurance if you:

Are a solopreneur or micro-business (under 5 employees)
Work in one of their specialized industries
Want the absolute lowest price for standard coverage
Prefer fully digital, self-service insurance
Need a policy today (instant issuance)
Are comfortable with a newer insurance company

Choose Simply Business if you:

Want to compare quotes from multiple carriers
Have unique or complex insurance needs
Run a higher-revenue business (over $500K annually)
Value broker assistance and expert guidance
Prefer working with established insurance carriers
Need specialized coverage not offered by Next
Want the security of carrier competition

Consider Getting Quotes From Both if you:

Fall somewhere in the middle of these profiles
Want to ensure you're getting the best deal
Have time to compare (quotes are free)
Want to see which approach works better for your specific situation

Final Recommendation: There's no universal "better" choice—it depends entirely on your business profile. Next Insurance excels at fast, affordable coverage for specific industries. Simply Business excels at finding the right carrier match for diverse business needs. The best decision is to get quotes from both and compare actual prices and coverage for YOUR business.

Get instant quotes from top carriers →

Why Use a Brokerage Platform Instead of Buying Direct?

When a carrier offers instant quote-and-bind on their website, it's convenient — but you're only seeing one carrier's rates. A brokerage platform like Insura changes that equation:

One application, multiple quotes. Fill out one form and get compared across 10+ A-rated carriers including Hartford, Chubb, Hiscox, and more. No need to re-enter your business info on five different websites.
The price is the same — or lower. Carriers pay the broker's commission directly. Your premium is identical to what you'd pay buying direct, and often lower because a broker can find a carrier that prices your specific risk more competitively.
We work for you, not the carrier. A direct carrier's website is designed to sell you their policy. A brokerage platform is designed to find you the best policy — we have no incentive to push one carrier over another.
Automated comparison shopping, year after year. When your policy renews, a brokerage platform automatically re-shops your coverage across carriers to make sure you're still getting the best rate. Buy direct, and you're locked into one carrier's renewal pricing with no leverage.
Licensed experts when you need them. Have a coverage question or need help with a claim? You get access to real brokers — not a carrier's customer service line reading from a script.

→ Get your free multi-carrier quote

Sources

Don't limit yourself to one carrier's price. Insura compares Hartford, Chubb, Hiscox, and 20+ other carriers — the price is the same or less, and you'll know you got the best deal. Get your free multi-carrier quote →

Next Insurance vs Simply Business: Which Small Business Insurance Provider Is Right for You?

Need the Quick Answer?

Quick Comparison Table

Table of Contents

Understanding the Two Providers

Coverage Options and Flexibility

Next Insurance Coverage

Simply Business Coverage

Pricing and Affordability

Next Insurance Pricing

Simply Business Pricing

The Business Owner's Policy (BOP) Comparison

User Experience and Technology

Next Insurance Platform

Simply Business Platform

Claims Process and Customer Service

Next Insurance Claims

Simply Business Claims

Industry Specialization

Next Insurance Specializes In:

Simply Business Works Well For:

Which Provider Should You Choose?

Why Use a Brokerage Platform Instead of Buying Direct?

Sources