Recently I got hit with the flu. Nothing too serious, but enough to knock me off my feet and into bed. I managed to do a few bits of work (yay for laptops and working in PJs), but it got me thinking – what the hell happens if we get really sick as freelancers?
Let’s dive into this mess together, shall we?
No Sick Pay for Freelancers
Here’s the deal: unlike our 9-to-5 friends, we don’t get sick pay. When we’re down, our income takes a hit too. It’s like a double whammy of suck.
So what can we do? Here are some ideas:
Build an Emergency Fund
Aim for at least 3 months of expenses. I know, I know, easier said than done. But trust me, future-you will thank present-you when you’re stuck in bed with the flu from hell.
Have a “Sick Day” Plan
Figure out how you’ll tell clients you’re out of commission. Maybe draft a template email now, so you’re not trying to sound professional while your brain’s on fire.
Create a Freelance Buddy System
Find other freelancers who can cover for you in a pinch. Return the favour when they’re sick. It’s like a work-from-home version of “I’ll watch your cat if you water my plants.”
Consider Self-Employed Income Protection Insurance
Yeah, it’s another expense, but it might save your butt if you’re out for weeks. It can cover 50-70% of your income if you can’t work due to illness or injury.
Learn more about income protection insurance.
Freelancer Insurance
This one will likely only cover you if you have an accident, but Freelance insurance does a lot more. Legal expenses, business & office equipment, Public and Employer’s Liability are all possible options.
I can’t recommend a specific policy but a quick Google will ‘Freelance Insurance‘ will get you enough results.
Look into Other Insurance Options
There’s also illness insurance and critical illness cover (lump sum if you get seriously sick), mortgage protection (keeps a roof over your head), and life insurance (because we’re morbid like that).
Know Your Government Benefits
In the UK, you might be eligible for Employment and Support Allowance. It’s not much (about £100 a week), but hey, it’s something.
The Mental Health Side
Let’s be real: being sick as a freelancer is stressful AF. You’re worried about work, money, and letting people down. It’s a mental health minefield.
Remember: It’s okay to take a break. The world won’t end if you take a day off. Promise.
Prevention is Better Than Cure
I know we’re all busy, but taking care of yourself is part of the job. Eat your veggies, go on long walks, and maybe consider a stand-up desk so you’re not slowly turning into a human pretzel.
Check out this article on getting the fundamentals of your day right.
Your Turn
Have you ever been knocked out by illness as a freelancer? How did you handle it? Any horror stories or genius solutions? Let me know – I’m nosy and I care.
Stay healthy out there, friends. And if you can’t, at least stay caffeinated. ✌️
P.S. If you found this helpful, share it with a Freelance Friend. We’re all in this together, germs and all.
