How do I insure my income if I'm a freelancer or gig worker with no employer plan?

Without an employer, you have no group disability or paid leave, so an individual disability policy purchased directly or through a broker is usually the answer. Underwriters will ask for proof of income (tax returns or 1099s), and because self-employed income can be variable, they typically average recent years, so keep clean records. Expect to buy own-occupation coverage with a residual rider so partial work still triggers benefits, and pair it with a strong emergency fund to cover the elimination period. Some professional associations offer group disability at negotiated rates worth comparing. Because your income protection and taxes and retirement all interact, the Self-Employed Hub at wealthserene.com/tools/self-employed-hub can help you see the whole picture.