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For some freelancers, health insurance isn't a worry, because they're covered by their spouse's insurance. Some may even have COBRA benefits for a while after they leave their employers. They're the lucky ones. When many freelancers leave full-time jobs to strike out on their own, health insurance is one of their biggest worries, and also one of their biggest reoccurring expenses.

Because of the cost, and the perceived difficult of obtaining insurance, some freelancers take the risk of not carrying any insurance. WorkingToday.com says that about 30 per cent of freelancers in New York City don't have health insurance. After the events of September 11th, we can see how dangerous that gamble can be. If you are the only source of income for you and your family, getting sick or injured may not be just an inconvenience, it could cost you your business, and your only means of support.

Thankfully, there's also good news for freelancers who need health insurance. As more people branch out on their own, or open small businesses, more affordable health insurance becomes available. Jennifer M. Gangloff says in an article on FreeAgent.com, "Even with limited options, you can get similar coverage for similar cost as salaried employees." It's mostly a matter of figuring out your health care needs, and then finding out what type of coverage you can get in your area of the country.

Many membership organizations offer health care options to their members. For example, if you're a member of the National Writers Union (NWU), you can sign up for a managed care type plan, covering you, or your entire family. Special rates are offered to NWU members by Aetna Insurance. They also offer "media peril" insurance which covers lawsuits and libel issues that freelancers might face. Many other member organizations also offer health insurance for their members, and some carry special plans specifically geared to small business, like the National Association for the Self-Employed.

You can also go directly to an insurance company for coverage. In another article on health insurance, "Health Insurance for Home-business Owners," Jennifer M. Gangloff says "While many consumers believe they have to work through an agent or trade association, like a chamber of commerce, you can go directly to a company to shop rates and buy a health plan." Often, buying insurance through a membership organization can be actually more expensive, if they add on any type of administrative fee.

There's also a type of insurance called "key person" insurance, which covers a crucial employee who is injured or dies, and the business is affected. If your loved ones depend upon your income, this form of life insurance will protect them if something happens to you.

Don't gamble with your livelihood and your business. Health insurance is an important part of your growing business. For more information on what to look for in freelance health insurance policies, and how to find the right coverage for your needs, visit the Freelance Job News site for health insurance: http://r144.com/insuranceforfreelancers.htm