At Upstate’s Choice Insurance, we aim to be that partner. Since 2012, we’ve been serving clients across South Carolina, North Carolina, and Georgia — particularly in the Upstate — helping families and individuals find coverage that’s smart, fair, and tailored. Upstates Choice Insurance+1

Below, we lay out five reasons why working with us is different — and better — than settling for “just any” insurer.

1. Independent agency = more options, not just one quote

Many insurance buyers don’t realize that “independent agency” is more than a marketing term. It means we’re not tied to a single insurer. Instead, we partner with multiple carriers to find you the best fit — price, coverage, and service. That flexibility gives us room to negotiate for you, rather than being stuck with one fixed option. Progressive Agent+1

2. Special expertise with SR22, non-owners, and tricky cases

Insurance can get complicated when you need SR22 filings (for license reinstatement), or when you don’t own a vehicle but still need liability coverage (“non-owners insurance”). Many agencies shy away from those scenarios. We lean in. By specializing in these difficult or high-risk cases, we help people who might otherwise feel locked out of affordable insurance. Upstates Choice Insurance+1

3. Coverage that matches real life — not a cookie cutter plan

You’re not a number. You’re a real person with a unique situation: the car you drive, your credit history, your commute, your family, your prior driving record, even your neighborhood. We listen — and we craft your insurance plan accordingly. Overlooking details like bundling home and auto, adding riders, or adjusting deductibles can overcharge you or leave you exposed. At Upstate’s Choice, we aim to get the balance right.

4. Fast, digital, and convenient

Life moves fast. You shouldn’t have to wait days or drive to an office just to get basic insurance. At Upstate’s Choice, we offer online quoting, electronic signatures, and responsive support so you can move from “need a quote” to “I’m covered” quickly. Upstates Choice Insurance

5. Service when you need it — not just when you buy

The true test of an insurance agency is how they perform when claims arise. A policy is only as good as the support behind it. We pride ourselves on being accessible, transparent, and client-focused in claim handling. Whether you have a fender bender, a weather event, or a more complex liability claim — we’re with you. In this way, our relationship doesn’t end at your policy’s effective date; it continues throughout your coverage lifecycle.

Types of Coverage We Offer

We offer a comprehensive array of insurance products to meet the various needs of our clients: Upstates Choice Insurance+1

• Auto Insurance
• Homeowners Insurance
• Renters Insurance
• Motorcycle Insurance
• Commercial Auto / Business Insurance
• General Liability, Workers’ Compensation
• SR22 / Non-Owners Insurance

If you already have insurance somewhere else, we’d be happy to review it with you to see if you’re overpaying or underinsured.

How to Get Started

1. Visit our Get A Quote page on the website. Upstates Choice Insurance
2. Fill in some basic information (vehicle, home address, driving history, etc.).
3. We’ll review multiple options and send you proposals.
4. Choose the policy that fits your budget and needs, sign electronically, and you’re covered.
5. Over time, we review your policy—especially at renewal—to make sure you’re still getting the best value.

Real People, Real Impact

Here’s something one client said:

“The lowest price on non-owners SR22 in South Carolina.” Upstates Choice Insurance

That kind of feedback motivates us to keep working hard and keep pushing for value and service.

Final Thoughts

Insurance is more than a formal requirement — it’s a safety net. But not all safety nets are equally trustworthy. Whether you’re just starting to shop for coverage or you’ve had a lapse or complication, Upstate’s Choice Insurance is ready to help you navigate the options, avoid pitfalls, and find the coverage that works for you.

If you’re in Greenville, Simpsonville, the Upstate region, or anywhere across SC, NC, or GA — give us a call at (864) 845-7500 or request a free online quote today. Your next policy shouldn’t be a compromise — it should be confident, strategic, and truly yours.

Did you know you can meet state requirements without paying for unnecessary coverage? At Upstate’s Choice Insurance, we offer Ghost Workers’ Compensation Insurance—the smart, affordable solution for business owners with no employees.

This special type of workers’ comp policy provides a certificate of insurance (COI) so you can:
✅ Qualify for contracts and jobs that require proof of coverage
✅ Stay compliant without covering non-existent employees
✅ Save money compared to a traditional policy
✅ Build trust with contractors and clients

Perfect for sole proprietors, independent contractors, and small business owners, Ghost Workers’ Comp gives you the documentation you need—without the cost of insuring a full workforce.

📍 Serving Simpsonville, Greenville, Piedmont, and the entire Upstate region, plus SC, NC, and GA.
📞 Call 864-845-7500 or visit www.upstateschoice.com today to get your Ghost Workers’ Compensation Insurance quote.

What business insurance do I need?

Business insurance is a term that may include different types of insurance for businesses that can help provide protection from liabilities, property damage and other risks. It can help protect:

• Small businesses
• Self-employed workers
• Limited liability companies (LLCs)
• Home businesses
• Other types of businesses

Small business insurance can help provide a financial safety net that can help cover unexpected expenses after an accident or mistake involving your customers, employees or business property.

The idea is simple:

1. You pay a set amount for your insurance coverage (this is called your insurance premium).
2. In return, you receive help with expenses after a covered accident or mistake.

Commercial insurance can help protect your business from financial losses related to different insurable risks.

Without insurance, an accident or professional mistake could threaten the survival of your business and your bottom line.

In some cases, business insurance is required by law

For example, most states require workers’ compensation insurance if you have employees.

And some states have professional requirements to get a business license, such as for a general contractor or an electrician license.

What are the different types of business insurance?

Business insurance is a policy that combines different types of coverage. You can choose the policies you need based on your operations and potential risks.

Here are some examples of common types of business insurance:

General Liability insurance

General liability insurance, also known as business liability insurance, is often the first insurance business owners buy. It can help your business cover costs if you or an employee accidentally damage someone’s property or if someone other than an employee gets hurt (the legal term for this is bodily injury).

Learn more about general liability insurance.

Commercial Property insurance

Commercial property insurance can help protect many of the physical items you need to do business. It can help pay replacement costs if your business property suffers damages by water, fire, wind or vandalism. It can also help cover business income after a covered event.

Learn more about commercial property insurance.

BOP insurance (Business Owner’s Policy)

A business owner’s policy (BOP insurance) combines general liability insurance and commercial property. It is often cheaper to bundle these two policies. Together they can provide broader protection for your business.

Learn more about BOP insurance.

Workers’ Compensation insurance

Workers’ comp insurance covers workplace injuries. If an employee gets hurt on the job or gets a work-related illness, it can help pay for medical expenses and cover lost wages.

It’s often required by state law when you have employees. You can also protect yourself by opting for voluntary business owner’s coverage.

Learn more about workers’ compensation insurance.

Professional Liability insurance

Professional liability insurance can help protect your business from professional mistakes. This kind of coverage is also known as errors and omissions (E&O) insurance. It is common for professional services such as real estate agents, accountants, IT professionals and more.

Learn more about professional liability insurance.

Commercial Auto insurance

Commercial auto insurance is for small business owners who own or drive vehicles for work. It can help pay for damages if you or an employee are involved in an auto accident while driving for business.

Learn more about commercial auto insurance.

Some types of business insurance are designed for specific industries

Some business insurance policies offer more niche coverage options designed specifically for specific types of businesses.

For example:

• Retailers: Product liability insurance can help protect your business from legal fees if a customer says an issue with your product caused an injury or property damage. It is included with NEXT general liability coverage for retailers.
• Restaurants and food service: Liquor liability insurance can help provide financial help for restaurants if you serve alcohol to someone who causes an injury or property damage.
• Construction and cleaning: Tools & equipment insurance at NEXT can help construction and cleaning businesses repair or replace tools and equipment if they are stolen or damaged outside of normal wear and tear.

How much does small business insurance cost?

Business insurance costs can vary tremendously. That’s because every business has different coverage needs, potential risks and unique circumstances.

For example, insurance for a restaurant will be priced differently than for a handyman or financial advisor.

While it can be difficult to give a precise business insurance cost estimate — for that, you’ll need to get a quote for your business — here are some of the factors that help determine what your insurance will cost.

• Your payroll and the number of employees
• Where you work and your number of business locations
• Your industry
• Your experience

Learn more about the cost of business insurance.

How to get business insurance

Getting insurance for your business is simple and fast with NEXT. You can get the coverage you need in three ways:

1. Buy online

You can buy business insurance 100% online with NEXT in about 10 minutes. When you click “Get Instant Quote,” we’ll ask you some basic questions about your business and operations.

We’ll guide you every step of the way. After answering these questions, you’ll have a customized insurance quote for recommended coverage. If you like what you see, you can adjust the package limits and make your purchase.

Your coverage will begin after payment and you’ll have access to your certificate of insurance.

2. Purchase through an agent

Most people are familiar with this method of purchasing insurance. NEXT agents are available in every state and can help you understand coverages and local requirements.

To purchase insurance through an insurance agent, you typically need to provide information about your business and its specific needs.

The agent will assess your requirements and provide you with policy options. They’ll explain the coverage details, answer your questions and help you choose the most suitable policy. Once you make a decision, the agent will assist you in completing the necessary paperwork and complete the purchase.

3. Partner with other business services

NEXT lets business owners purchase insurance through the small business tools they’re already using.

Through partnerships with trusted providers like QuickBooks, LegalZoom, Gusto and more you can protect your business without ever leaving your account.

Regardless of how you purchase NEXT coverage, you’ll get easy access, knowledgeable experts who can answer your questions and unlimited access to certificates of insurance (COIs) without additional charges.

How NEXT helps small businesses get the right coverage

NEXT is 100% dedicated to small businesses and the self-employed. That means we can help you get the simple, affordable coverage you need to stay protected, meet legal requirements and provide customers with proof of insurance.

Whether you’re a contractor, restaurant, retail store, or just starting your side hustle, we’ll help you stay safe by providing coverage tailored to your profession.

Our customized commercial insurance packages can also be tailored to different business structures:

• Sole proprietor business insurance
• Self-employed business insurance
• LLC business insurance
• Home business insurance

It makes sense: We all just want to be loved, respected, and gifted the occasional homemade treat or heart-shaped charm. Below are nine ideas that will help you improve your relationship with your dog (no judgment if you try them on your human friends, too).  

1. Spend time together.

Good news: another excuse to spend the day cuddled up with your dog. A relationship is about being with one another and sharing experiences, so spending time together will strengthen your bond — especially if you spend that time in enjoyable ways. Try going out for a sniffari and putting in some quality playtime with your pup.

2. Communicate clearly.

It’s cliché advice for a reason: Communication really is everything. Misunderstandings and confusion are the enemies of good relationships, so be as clear as you can when you communicate with your dog. Be consistent with your training signals. Because dogs tend to learn visual signals faster than vocal cues, use the former when possible. Dogs pay attention to what you do more than to what you say, which means that you should attend to what you do when you communicate with them. You’ll feel closer when there’s greater understanding between the two of you.

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What to do when your new pup isn’t digging you.

3. Put a little love into their food.

The way to dogs’ hearts is through their stomach, and preparing healthy, tasty food for your dog shows you care. You can choose to cook for your dog or simply focus on providing the best nutrition in the most delicious way possible.

4. Train your dog.

Well-trained pups are allowed greater freedom. If they come when called, they get to spend more time off leash. If they don’t go for the food on the table, they can stay nearby during meals. Training also reduces frustration because when you ask your dog to do something they’ve been taught to do, they know exactly what you want — no guessing games or back-and-forth required.

5. Be playful.

There’s a reason I called one of my books Play Together, Stay Together. Scientists have observed that, across a variety of species, parents who play with their children have the closest relationships with them, and this also seems true in relationships between people and dogs. Playing games and having fun together strengthens your bond.

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There’s a difference between being affectionate and being annoying.

6. Remain calm.

Losing your temper, yelling, or freaking out in any way upsets everyone in the vicinity of the emotional storm, even if it doesn’t have anything to do with them. No matter what’s going on, exude a sense of tranquility so your dog can count on you to keep your cool.

7. Learn more about dog behavior.

Especially body language and facial expressions that indicate stress. When you can identify the signs that your dog is anxious or scared, it’s easier for you to protect or remove your dog from situations that make them uncomfortable. If your dog can count on you to keep them safe, the trust between you will be better and, in turn, so will your relationship. There are a number of excellent books and DVDs on this subject; look for works by Patricia McConnell, Suzanne Hetts, Daniel Estep and David Grant, and Barbara Handelman.

8. Pay attention to your dog’s likes and dislikes.

Knowing your dog’s preferences, (such as favorite games and foods), means that you can give them what they really want and be the source of all things wonderful. Similarly, keep track of what your dog can’t stand. A good starting place is to know the things that most dogs find unpleasant: head pats, citrus, or strong floral scents, loud noises, being stared at, being dressed up in clothes that impede their ability to move, and being hugged.

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Boundaries, folks. Boundaries.

9. Pet your dog.

There is strong evidence that physical contact, such as grooming and petting, lowers stress in shelter dogs, which is measured by reductions in both heart rate and the stress hormone cortisol, as well as by an increase in the anti-stress hormone oxytocin. This has led researchers to believe that physical contact plays a role in enhancing the bond between people and dogs.

Focusing on your relationship is arguably the most important aspect of living with a dog. After all, you love your dog as a friend and family member, and being with them enhances your life in many ways. It’s all about the relationship, which is worth improving no matter how magnificent it is already. 

Can you get SR-22 insurance without a vehicle?

Yes, you can meet SR-22 requirements without owning a car. SR-22 forms are for drivers who’ve been convicted of serious moving violations like driving under the influence (DUI), driving while intoxicated (DWI), or driving without a valid license. An SR-22 may also be required for repeat traffic offenses in a short amount of time. For these type of offenses, part of regaining driving privileges may require you to file an SR-22 form.

If you’re ordered to file an SR-22 but don’t own a vehicle, you can purchase a non-owner car insurance policy. Non-owners insurance will provide liability coverage that meets your state’s requirements.

How does a non-owner SR-22 work?

All drivers with an SR-22 must meet a minimum amount of bodily injury and property damage liability coverage per person and accident. These minimum coverage requirements will vary by state. The requirements do not change based on vehicle ownership, so you’re required to carry the same level of coverage even if you don’t own a vehicle. Most states require a driver keep an SR-22 on file for at least 3 years, but some states may require a longer time period.

When you buy your non-owners car insurance policy, let your insurer know that you’ll need an SR-22 and they’ll file the form with your state’s department or bureau of motor vehicles. If you fail to maintain coverage during that time, you’ll need to re-file the SR-22 form and the clock will reset, requiring you to carry the form on your policy for a longer period of time.

How much does a non-owner SR 22 cost?

When moving in, be sure to inspect delivered boxes, take pictures, clean and prioritize the other items on this checklist:

Floods are unpredictable and can happen anywhere. However, you can get an idea of your risk by reviewing flood maps and risk assessments. View these flood maps by following this link:

If you own a business, it’s critical to claim your online business listings. This will allow you to provide accurate information – like your address and hours of operation – to customers who search for you online. Read on:

Looking to install a fireplace or a woodburning stove? While they both accomplish the same thing, the way they work is vastly different. Find out which one is right for your home.

Are you trying to decide between purchasing a home or a condo? A condo may seem like the easier and cheaper choice, but it all depends on your lifestyle! Consider these things before putting an offer down: