So you probably know that I started my freelance career after too many high-stress years in employment — years that were tearing up my health and happiness.
After I got laid off and decided to start freelancing, I had to get my income up, but the last thing I wanted to do was trade job stress for possibly even more freelance stress.
That’s why I took things easy from the jump.
One bill at a time, working my way up from my phone bill, I would celebrate just being able to cover whatever I could.
One of the best bills to take aim at though, is health insurance (especially in the U.S. and not on someone else’s plan. You might want to consider something like a pension or retirement fund if your insurance is
taken care of.)
You can definitely start with something familiar (and critical) like rent/mortgage, or a student loan payment, but starting with anything an employer provides is a good way to get your freelance mind right as early as possible.
If you’re generally healthy, you’re probably going to be looking at around $400 for individual coverage, and $1,000 for family. Are those numbers high? Yes, but remember that
they’re a business expense and something you should be looking to pass on to your clients. (I’m 5 years into my freelance career and the price of my insurance isn’t near the issue it used to be.)
Oh…and if you’ve got any health insurance questions, shoot them over. I’m probably going to be working on a blog soon and want to make sure your concerns get addressed. Thanks!
Megan
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