Washington likes acronyms when it comes to lawmaking and this new law is no exception. This is the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA) and this November sees it finally come into force. Because it affects both employers and the insurance industry, this has been a hard-fought change and was only signed into law last year. Now it should prevent you from obvious discrimination. Sadly, it does not rule out discrimination by backdoor means. If an employer overhears you talking at the water cooler or routinely surveys local news including the obituaries, it is legal to use this information. But, overall, you should find some improvement. It covers two different situations with the same type of result. Firstly, it prohibits employers from asking you to go through a genetic test or making genetic information the basis of deciding whether to hire, promote or fire you. Secondly, it prohibits insurers from testing or demanding genetic information about you or your family in deciding whether to offer you coverage, in setting the premium rate and level of the deductible, or continue the cover. Continue reading →

If you’re self-employed, it has pros and cons, and health insurance is one of the aspects, which makes potential freelancers think a lot about switching to this form of working. Some state that it’s hard to find appropriate health insurance if you are self employed, advocating against freelance jobs. But as with any other form of employment, there are ways you can get good coverage even when you’re on your own. It only takes time, patience and dedication to find good deals. And there are different options a freelancer can take to obtain health insurance coverage.

Be independent

There are many independent insurance agents who are ready to give you an unbiased advice on your health insurance option, and this might be quite a good way to get insurance coverage in your situation. Having a real person to talk with will make your shopping efforts really easy. Another way is searching the Internet for companies that are willing to sell coverage to independent workers and contacting them directly.

Group with other freelancers

If you are a worker in a professional field like writing, you can join a professional guild, club or league for group insurance options. There is also the National Association for the Self Employed, for a less specific determination of your activities, which also provides health insurance benefits to freelancers. It all depends in the field of your work and your professional level. Some of us will find it easier to join such a guild, others will have hard time applying. Continue reading →