Commercial insurance markets for your business

Questions about how we shop carriers

• How many insurance carriers does Ellie Insurance Group work with?
  We shop more than 100 admitted and surplus-lines carrier markets for commercial insurance. Because we are an independent agency, we are not owned by or obligated to any single insurer, so we compare multiple carriers on your behalf and present the options that fit your business.
• What does it mean to be an independent insurance agency?
  An independent agency represents many insurance companies rather than one. Instead of selling a single carrier's products, we gather your information once and market your risk to multiple carriers, then help you compare coverage and price. If your needs or the market change, we can re-shop your account without you having to start over with a new company.
• Can I choose a specific carrier for my policy?
  Yes. If you prefer a particular insurer, let us know and we will check whether we have access to that market and whether it has appetite for your class of business. Availability, eligibility, and pricing are ultimately set by each carrier and can vary by state, industry, and risk profile.
• Are these carriers guaranteed to insure my business?
  No. Listing a carrier here means it is among the markets we may approach; it is not a guarantee of coverage, appointment, or a specific rate. Each carrier independently decides whether to offer terms based on underwriting guidelines. We will tell you which markets are realistic for your situation when we quote.
• What is the difference between an admitted and a surplus-lines (E&S) carrier?
  Admitted carriers are licensed by your state and backed by the state guaranty fund, with rates and forms filed with regulators. Surplus-lines (excess & surplus, or E&S) carriers are used for harder-to-place or higher-hazard risks; they offer more flexibility on terms but are not backed by the guaranty fund. We use both depending on what your business needs.