Insurance when you work for yourself

Working for yourself, even part time, can mean you carry the risks an employer used to. This page lists what people often look at.

What changes

Without an employer, there is usually no group plan, no paid sick leave and no employer-paid liability cover. Some people keep a day job and a side business, which brings a different mix of questions.

Things to look at

Keep it simple

You do not need everything at once. Many people start with the one or two risks that would hurt the most and add from there.

Related pages

Common questions

Does my home insurance cover my home office?

Often only partly, and business equipment and visits from clients may be limited or excluded. Tell your insurer what you do and ask.

Do I need liability insurance as a freelancer?

It depends on your work and your clients. Some contracts require it. A licensed advisor can explain what options exist for your kind of work.

What happens if I get sick and cannot work?

That depends on what protection you have. Some people have disability insurance, and some rely on savings. The disability gap calculator on this site can help you think about it.

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General information, not advice or a recommendation. Rules differ by province and by insurer, so confirm with your insurer or a licensed advisor. This page was last checked in November 2026.