Self employed maternity leave?

[PinkStars13]

First time mom here and I'm looking into what might be a problem for me. I'm a 1099 contractor and with that, I don't have an employer. Is anyone familiar with what options I have? At this point I won't be able to afford to take unpaid leave... So I don't know what I'm going to do!

[1689139857809093243_231_53]

I have been a contractor for over a decade. My industry has definite feast or famine seasons, so I've learned to put away $$ from each paycheck to help support me through the down times. If you are able to save 25-30% of your pay for the next few months, it will help cushion the lack of pay for a month or 2. Also, most states have support programs for moms-to-be and new mothers. Healthcare.gov is a good place to start, but don't forget to check out other supplemental programs available through your state, city, and local civic organizations. Best wishes to you!

[Edelawit]

My state offers up to 14 weeks of disability pay at 60% of my income. Check what your state offers. And my individual insurance policy pays for 100 of prenatal costs and 90% of delivery costs. Under the new insurance laws you can't be denied coverage based on your pregnancy. I'm self employed and have been for several years. I'm 14 weeks pregnant now. Just gather information from your state disability department and research insurance policies. Maybe you can also work from home for a few months depending on your line of work. You can make this work. You just need to get accurate information from the right sources. I'm a lawyer. So I love researching my options. Best wishes to you.

[allisontaylormoseley]

Save up enough to take off 3 months!  If you can't do that,  then at least 1 month. You'll regret it otherwise! Yr body needs at least 30 days to recover.

[LoveCake98]

Excellent idea re having dad stay home & do early care!  I really like it.  My husband would be thrilled if he were to do this.

[kj_skibum]

I agree with the others. Paid on 1099 you get higher wage bur are responsible for your own health care, short term disability etc. Check your existing health policy to see if it does include the short term disability....may only be $200-$300 per week if like most insurance through employers. Check FMLA for your state. After leave, you may not have a job to come back to. Does dad get maternity leave? If so, maybe you are home FT for 3-4 weeks post birth then dad is home FT for 4 weeks.

[AnnieBrooke]

Look into the healthcare.gov plans now.  The theory when one is a contractor is that one pays for one's own insurance, I know that a lot of self-employed people do not, but that is the concept.  So get to the state and find out what the healthcare plan is, since you have to cover not just you but also your baby.

[LoveCake98]

I think your best option is to plan ahead for the decrease in salary.  Can you change your living situation temporarily and/or contact any creditors to suspend payments in order to adjust your monthly expense load for the short term?   Have you purchased any short term disability insurance since you've been self employed?  That might cover you. Unfortunately contracted employees generally make a really decent salary with zero benefits. I'd also look carefully at healthcare.gov plans if it were me (in order to pay your upcoming medical bills).  Best of luck to you.  Sounds like this preg caught you off guard, however, lucky you to be able to plan for it right now.

[specialmom]

Ugh, that is a tough spot.  As you are not employed by anyone and they just contract out your services, there wouldn't be anyone to pay you when on leave.  I think you are sadly stuck.  That is a rough spot to be in.  I wish you well.