What's a benefits checklist for someone newly self-employed?

Leaving a job means recreating the benefits an employer used to provide, so work through them deliberately. Health insurance first — enroll through the ACA marketplace or a spouse's plan rather than going uncovered. Retirement: open a Solo 401(k) or SEP-IRA to replace the workplace 401(k), and keep saving. Disability insurance to protect your income, since you no longer have employer coverage or sick leave. Life insurance if anyone depends on you. An HSA if you choose a high-deductible health plan. Build a larger emergency fund — six to twelve months of expenses — to stand in for severance and unemployment. Set up a system for quarterly estimated taxes and a separate tax account. Finally, separate business and personal finances with dedicated accounts. Tackle these in order of risk, starting with health and income protection. Run a full review at wealthserene.com/assessments/financial-wellness.