Online small business insurance provider AssureStart announced last week that it is now open for business in six additional states: Alabama, Georgia, Idaho, Maine, Nebraska and North Carolina.

Seattle-based AssureStart sells business property and general liability insurance on the Internet to small businesses with fewer than 30 employees.

AssureStart allows businesses to buy business coverages and obtain certificates of insurance at the point of sale so a small business owner can buy a policy and present the necessary credentials to start work on a client project the same day.

During the application and purchase process, customers can contact a licensed insurance professional by phone, email or web chat.

The company says it is able to pass along premium savings of up to 40 percent to small business owners.

AssureStart is backed by the American Family Mutual Insurance Co., rated ‘A’ (Excellent) by A.M. Best. Policies are underwritten by Midvale Indemnity Co., an affiliate of American Family.

The company launched service in its first state in November 2013. It currently sells business owner’s policies in 31 states. It plans to cover nearly 40 states by the end of 2014, with a national footprint complete in early 2015.

AssureStart eventually intends to add commercial auto and workers compensation.