As someone who is self-employed, you don't get all the insurance options available to people who are employed by large corporations, but insurance brokers can help you find policies that fit your needs. By working with a knowledgeable broker, you can have access to benefits at a cost that's affordable to you.

In addition, being a business owner means you need to protect yourself. It's wise to sign up for an umbrella policy that covers liability as well as property damage. A good insurance brokerage can help you out there, too.

An online insurance agent or broker can help you find what you're looking for, but brokers may be able to give you a wider range of options (as compared with agents). Brokers are not obligated to any specific company so they are free to give you exactly what you need. Consider the following:

1. Get life insurance from a reputable insurance broker. A type of life insurance, called an annuity, serves as a retirement account.

2. Find a health insurance policy that meets your family's needs. Insurance brokerage firms have a variety of policies to fit any life circumstances.

3. Buy business owner's insurance. Insurance brokers will help you customize the package that's right for your business.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Explore life insurance options with a reputable online insurance broker

Life insurance works in a few ways. For one, it pays your loved ones in the event of your death; two, it can act as a retirement vehicle that earns interest on your deposits. Take a look at all the options brokers have to offer.

I recommend: Explore the range of life insurance options at e-Insure Services. Check out the offerings at the reputable Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance.

Get individual or family quotes from health insurance brokers

Health insurance is something everyone needs. There are many good plans available to people who are self-employed, so it's wise to shop around to get the best price for the coverage you need. You can also get dental and vision insurance if your family uses these services on a regular basis.

I recommend: Get health insurance quotes from Lehrman Group. Get quotes from leading companies at eHealthInsurance.

Buy general business coverage from a dependable insurance broker

A business owner's policy, also known as a BOP, provides general coverage for liability, property damage and injury. This is not tailored to your specific business, though, so you may need to opt for additional coverage if there are risks associated with your line of work. For example, you may need to add Errors and Omissions (E&O) if you're a real estate agent or insurance adjuster. All of this can be customized for you.

I recommend: Apply online for a policy from Seabury & Smith. You can also get quotes from Vista International.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Many insurance brokers will give you a discount if you buy multiple policies from them. This is particularly common among auto and homeowner's insurance policies, so if all your needs can be fulfilled by one company, see what type of discounts you qualify for.