1. Health Insurance: Your First Line of Defense

Without an employer plan, you’ll need to find your own coverage—and it’s not as hard as it sounds. The ACA marketplace offers subsidized plans based on your income, and many freelancers qualify for tax credits that lower monthly premiums. If you need something more flexible or temporary, look into private plans or health-sharing alternatives. Don’t skip this one—one ER visit could wreck your finances.

2. Disability Insurance: Protecting Your Paychecks

If you get sick or injured and can’t work, who’s paying the bills? That’s where disability insurance steps in.