licence/ insurance necessary? Options

[leyla]

Hi,
I'm just starting out as a freelance web designer. (in Minnesota)
I'm wondering if I should get certified and /or insurance to protect myself from
any legal issues down the road.

Thanks!
Leyla

[Dr Z]

I am not familiar with the detailed regulations of Minnesota. However, if you are going to operate a business, you make be required to get some kind of a business license. The requirements for the business license will tell you if there any further requirements. Simplest would be go to the site of the your state and look around. You should be able to find the info you need.

Your state may also require that you register with the state "Disability Insurance" (different states using different terms).

[Darin McGrew]

Incorporation is another approach. That creates a buffer between your personal assets and the assets of your web design company.

For insurance, make sure you know what the risk(s) are that you're insuring yourself against, and make sure that your policy covers those risks. Buying insurance against risks you don't care about is wasteful. Buying insurance that doesn't cover the risks you do care about is useless.