6 Worthwhile Action Steps for Freelance Writers

Here's the thing: when I started freelance writing, I had no idea what I was doing. I'd like to think that most people know more when they first attempt freelance work than I did. But now I'm almost four years into this game, and it's safe to say I've learned a few things.

When you first start, you're likely excited about the writing part and getting to do what you love for a living. You've probably already started your Medium or Vocal account, hoping to make it big. You're probably already making meaningful contributions to your portfolio, like all those articles and videos have been advising. These are great steps!

But there are a lot of other components that you might not think about right away. If you choose to be a freelancer, you're responsible for paying underlying costs and ensuring your business operates smoothly. Here are a few helpful action steps and purchases to consider as you jump into the world of freelance writing:

1. Purchase liability insurance

While this wasn't a concern when I initially started, insurance requirements are starting to pop up more in my freelance writing world. Some clients may require liability insurance before you can work with them, and even when it's not required, it's still nice to have. You will likely need to pay for this insurance yearly, so make sure to keep track of when your bill is due.

2. Get identity theft protection and a VPN

I've written about this before, but if you're about to spend a lot of time online for work, you need to make sure you're doing it safely. Your information is more likely to be out there, so you're at a higher risk than someone who isn't online a lot or someone who works for a large business that already invests in online security features. Identity theft protection helps you minimize the damage in challenging scenarios.

VPNs are also worth the money. Freelance writing is great because you can work from anywhere if you have wi-fi. But if you plan on spending a lot of time writing at your local coffee shop, it's time to get a VPN. Also, having a VPN can ensure your privacy and safety when you travel, allowing you to be the flexible freelancer you want to be.

3. Establish online payment methods

Clients need ways to pay you safely and securely. It's a good idea to set up options before clients ask, "How do you want to get paid?" PayPal and Venmo both offer business payment options. Setting up at least one of these or another payment method before you start marketing your writing services is a good idea. It allows you to start accepting payments as soon as possible and shows your clients that you've taken time to plan and be responsible in this area.

However, some clients may want something different, which is totally okay. Communicate with your clients and establish something you both feel comfortable with, acknowledging that this may change with time.

4. Figure out your AI stance

I know this almost doesn't fit in the rest of this list, but it's an important consideration for writers. We live in a weird time in the writing world. Writing clients will take different stances on AI use, so you need to know where you stand too. Ask yourself, what is your comfort level with AI, and what role do you want it to play in your writing?

Figuring this out will help you find clients that align with your AI use and narrow your job search. For example, some jobs that kept popping up for me involved training AI or editing AI text. Because of my personal AI stance, I knew to scroll past these listings to focus on finding clients that fit my freelance writing wheelhouse.

5. Look into establishing an LLC or DBA

You want to show potential clients what you do and establish yourself as a legitimate and hard worker. One way to do this is to become a limited liability company (LLC). Another option is to get a "Doing Business As" (DBA), which, at least in New York, is considerably less complicated than becoming an LLC. As noted in this article, there are distinct differences between these options.

However, both options can add to your credibility as a freelancer. Currently, I am an LLC, but this was something I established later in my writing career. It's worth giving some thought to and talking to other small businesses or individuals about what the process was like for them.

6. Find someone to help you with your taxes

Freelance work is great in that you get to set your schedule and have full control over the clients you choose to work with. The downside? Doing your taxes. As your business grows, you will have income from multiple clients, which is far more complicated than a standard W-2. Plus, if you're filing jointly, it's even more of a headache!

The good news is that there are people who can help you with the nuances and figure out how much you owe in federal and state taxes. Ask friends and family in your area who they recommend locally and what fees are involved. You can also do research online to figure out what groups provide the most reliable services.

Take a deep breath

Freelance writing is an odd and complicated field. I know I'm not the first one to give this kind of advice but here it goes:

You're going to make some mistakes. You'll have client situations that work out and others that won't. You'll miss certain steps and have to make investments that you wish you had made upfront. The important thing is to try and make smart decisions when you can and put in the hard and slow work that is required for success.

I hope these tips help guide you toward success in your freelance writing career!

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