I started SoNo Insurance because we kept seeing the same problem over and over again: getting good insurance is way too confusing. People try to shop online and end up in a maze of forms, endless questions, and quotes that don’t make sense. Most end up buying based on price alone; not because the coverage is right, but because the process is exhausting. And in the end, they’re left with gaps, overlaps, and policies scattered across different companies with no one looking at the whole picture.
I knew there had to be a better way.
So I built SoNo Insurance to make protecting what matters simple, modern, and human. We use smart technology to cut out the frustration and gather the information we need quickly, but we never lose the personal guidance people actually want. Our job is to help you understand your options, compare top carriers, and design coverage that truly fits your life, your business, or your investment properties.
As an independent agency, we don’t work for an insurance company — we work for you. We partner with strong, reputable carriers so you have real choice, fair pricing, and protection you can trust. And unlike many traditional agencies, we’re not stuck using outdated systems or slow processes. We blend technology with genuine service so you get clarity, transparency, and support whenever you need it.
I founded SoNo in Chicago’s Ukrainian Village with a simple goal: bring a better insurance experience to people who deserve one. Whether you’re here in Chicago or across the country, I’m here to help you navigate insurance with confidence — every step of the way.
— Alan G. Harder
Co-Founder & CEO, SoNo Insurance
What Is an Independent Insurance Agent?
An independent insurance agent isn’t tied to just one insurance company. Instead of being locked into a single carrier’s products, we’re free to shop across multiple top-rated companies on your behalf.
That means:
- Expert guidance: Insurance is a major financial decision. An independent agent brings experience, context, and real-world insight so you’re not left guessing from a list of online quotes.
- More choice: We compare options from a range of insurers rather than pushing a one-size-fits-all policy.
- Better fit: We look at your whole picture; home, auto, life, business, and investment properties to help you avoid gaps, overlaps, and surprises.
- Advocacy, not sales: We don’t work for an insurance company. We work for you. When something goes wrong, we’re on your side, helping you navigate claims and get a fair, prompt response.

