Tag Archives: mediabistro

advice, blogging, editorial, resources

Writer’s Digest 101 Best Websites For Writers, 2010

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writers-digest-101-best-sites-for-writersWe have a very happy announcement to make…

Freelance-Zone.com was chosen by Writer’s Digest as one of the 101 Best Websites for Writers and we are featured in the May/June issue! We’d like to take a minute to thank all of the loyal readers who voted for us–we really appreciate it!

And thanks to Writer’s Digest for including us.

Be sure to check out the issue of WD for many great resources for writers, including FZ faves such as Grammar Girl, Absolute Write, MediaBistro, The Renegade Writer and Funds for Writers, among others.

(Every year I go through the list and take a peek at everything…it’s a great way to connect with all the great stuff out there on the web! – Catherine)

advice, lifestyle

Health Insurance For The Freelancer

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Do you have health insurance? Freelance writers often have difficulty figuring out how to navigate the waters when it comes to this important subject. Medical expenses can add up quickly and you don’t want to be caught without at least some protection. Unfortunately, there aren’t many good options for most of us at this point in time.

I have a policy that covers me in case of emergency, but as I get older I am going to need to look at more comprehensive options. Here is what I can tell you if you are looking into this for the first time:

  • If you can get coverage through a spouse (or partner in some states), this is probably the best way to go.
  • If you are a recent college graduate, check with your alumni association and see if they have any health insurance options.
  • If you are making the jump from part-time to full-time writer, see what the COBRA options are for extending your insurance. This can be expensive, but it is an option for continued care.
  • Consider an insurance plan with a high deductible. The monthly payments are typically lower, but you still have some coverage.
  • Check with your Chamber of Commerce and see if they have any advice for you.
  • Look into various associations for writers and other freelance professionals. The Authors Guild  has plans for those in New York and Massachusetts and I recall both MediaBistro and the American Society of Journalists and Authors as having health insurance plans as well. You can also check out the National Writers Association and I”m sure there are others out there, so take a look and see if their plans are right for you. They require membership, and some are not available for all of the US.
  • Check out resources such as RXAssist which can help you find free or low-cost medications, or ask the pharmacist if your medication is available in a generic which will lower the price.

The face of healthcare is changing, but for now, freelance writers don’t have a lot of good options. Still, some coverage is better than none, and there are some places that you can look. Take a little time to investigate, and if you find something worth sharing–please do!