Hiscox vs Thimble: Which Is Better for Small Business?
Both Hiscox and Thimble are top-rated commercial insurance carriers for small business. The right choice depends on your industry, revenue, and how you prefer to buy coverage. Here's a side-by-side comparison to help you decide.
Quick comparison
| Factor | Hiscox | Thimble |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Small businesses in low-risk industries needing fast online quotes | Gig workers, freelancers, and short-term or event-based coverage |
| Founded | 1901 | 2016 |
| AM Best Rating | A (Excellent) | A (Excellent) via partner carriers |
| General Liability | $40–$100/month | $5/day or $50/month |
| BOP | $60–$180/month | Varies by project |
| Revenue minimum | No minimum | No minimum |
Hiscox overview
Hiscox
Founded: 1901
HQ: Hamilton, Bermuda (US operations in Atlanta, GA)
Best for: Small businesses in low-risk industries needing fast online quotes
Coverage types: General Liability, Professional Liability / E&O, BOP, Cyber Liability
Notable: Known for fast online quoting (as little as 5 minutes) and low minimum premiums
Typical GL cost: $40–$100/month
Typical BOP cost: $60–$180/month
Thimble overview
Thimble
Founded: 2016
HQ: New York, NY
Best for: Gig workers, freelancers, and short-term or event-based coverage
Coverage types: General Liability, Professional Liability, BOP, Commercial Auto
Notable: Offers short-term 'by-the-job' and 'by-the-month' policies — good for contractors between projects
Typical GL cost: $5/day or $50/month
Typical BOP cost: Varies by project
Which should you choose?
Choose Hiscox if...
you want small businesses in low-risk industries needing fast online quotes or need known for fast online quoting (as little as 5 minutes) and low minimum premiums
Choose Thimble if...
you want gig workers, freelancers, and short-term or event-based coverage or need offers short-term 'by-the-job' and 'by-the-month' policies — good for contractors between projects
The honest answer: both carriers are solid. Rates for identical coverage vary 20–30% between carriers, so the cheapest option depends on your specific class code, revenue, and state. Get quotes from both before deciding.
Estimate your cost first
Before you compare quotes, know what you should expect to pay. Use these free calculators to see benchmarks for your industry and revenue:
Frequently asked questions
Is Hiscox or Thimble cheaper for small business insurance?
Hiscox and Thimble are similar in pricing. Hiscox runs $40–$100/month, while Thimble runs $5/day or $50/month. For identical coverage, rates vary 20–30% depending on your class code, revenue, and state — so the cheapest option depends on your specific business.
Which is better for general liability insurance, Hiscox or Thimble?
Both Hiscox and Thimble offer general liability. Hiscox is best for small businesses in low-risk industries needing fast online quotes. Thimble is best for gig workers, freelancers, and short-term or event-based coverage.
Does Hiscox or Thimble offer workers' comp?
Neither Hiscox nor Thimble writes workers' comp directly. Both specialize in other commercial coverages.
Can I switch from Hiscox to Thimble mid-year?
Yes. Commercial insurance policies can be cancelled and replaced at any time. If you paid annually, the old carrier refunds unused premium (pro-rata or short-rate). The main caution is workers' comp — mid-year changes can complicate your experience modification calculation because the policy period does not align with the standard experience period.