Why Do You Need Insurance as a Freelancer or Independent Contractor?
Why Do You Need Insurance as a Freelancer or Independent Contractor?
In today's fast-paced gig economy, more and more individuals are finding freedom and flexibility by stepping into roles as freelancers and independent contractors. While the perks of setting one’s own hours and choosing clients are enticing, insurance is a critical aspect that can't be overlooked.
Here's why insurance coverage is vital for those who work for themselves and how to select the right policy for your specific needs.
1. Importance of Insurance
a) Financial Protection: An injury, illness or lawsuit can put freelancers and contractors in significant debt. Insurance helps manage the financial impact, paying weekly wages, business expenses or legal costs and awards in the event of a lawsuit.
b) Enhances Professional Image: Showing potential clients that you are insured can significantly enhance your professional standing. It reassures them that they're protected if things don’t go as planned, making them more likely to do business with you.
c) Contract Requirement: Many clients now require insurance proof before engaging with a freelancer or independent contractor. This is especially common in industries like construction, consultancy, or other professional fields.
d) Peace of Mind: Knowing you’re covered allows you to focus on what you do best without worrying about key financial risks.
2. Types of Insurance Relevant to Freelancers and Contractors
a) Professional Indemnity: Also known as errors and omissions (E&O) insurance, this covers you in case a client claims that your work or advice caused them financial harm.
b) Public & Product Liability: This insurance protects against third-party claims for bodily injury and damage to someone else's property arising from your work, business or products.
d) Personal Accident: If you get injured or become ill and can’t work for an extended time, personal accident insurance will pay up to 85% of your usually income.
e) Non-cancellable Income protection or disability insurance, is usually part of your Life Insurance and covers part of your usual income, if you’re unable to work through sickness or accident.
f) Life insurance provides a lump sum or series of payments if you die.
g) Trauma insurance provides a lump sum if you have a specified life-threatening illness.
h) Business Property Insurance: This covers equipment like computers, cameras, and other tools of your trade against theft, damage, or loss.
Agile's Professional Indemnity insurance protects against claims arising from an act, error or omission in the performance of professional services.
Professional Indemnity insurance is designed for professionals who provide a specialist service or advice, providing protection for financial loss and legal costs of a claim.
A business insurance pack can provide cover for your business premises and contents, against loss, damage, theft or financial loss from an insured interruption to the business.
h) Business Property Insurance: This covers equipment like computers, cameras, and other tools of your trade against theft, damage, or loss.
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i) Business interruption or loss of profits insurance covers you if your business suffers from damage to property by fire, storm etc. It can help you pay your ongoing fixed expenses and net profit.
j) Management liability provides financial protection, paying legal expenses or damages, in the event of an actual or alleged wrongful act by a manager in the businesses. This policy can also be extended to cover employee dishonesty, related to losses from employee or contractor theft or fraud.
k) Cyber Liability: For those who handle or store information or have an online presence, this provides financial protection in the event of data breaches or cyberattacks.
3. Choosing the Right Insurance Policy
a) Assess Your Risk: Every profession has unique risks and financial capabilities. A graphic designer will not need the same coverage as a construction contractor. Talk to your professional adviser, who can provide options for you to consider.
b) Shop Around: Premiums and terms can vary significantly between providers. Compare quotes, but also look at the reputation of the insurance company, and the specifics of what's covered and what not covered.
c) Tailor Your Policy: Many insurers allow you to pick and chose the sections or amount of cover to suit your company and circumstances. This can be particularly useful for freelancers and contractors whose work might change during the year or over time.
d) Regularly Review and Update: As your business grows and changes, so too will your insurance needs. Take the time to review your circumstances, new products or services annually or whenever you are planning to undertake a new project.
While diving into the world of freelancing or independent contracting is exhilarating, it’s important to rely on the safety net that insurance provides. Understanding the types of insurance available and regularly reviewing your needs can help to ensure you're adequately protected while you continue to run and build your business.
General Advice Warning: This advice is general and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider whether the advice is appropriate for you and your personal circumstances. Before you make any decision about whether to acquire a certain product, you should obtain and read the relevant product disclosure statement.
All information above has been provided by the author.
All information above has been provided by the author.
Insurance Advisernet, ABN 15 003 886 687, AFSL 240549
This article originally appeared on Insurance Advisernet and has been published here with permission.
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