More Midlife (and Older) STDs (Time.com)

Time.com - As older generations lead increasingly active sex lives, research shows they may also be suffering from a rise in sexually transmitted diseases

Have you considered what to do about health insurance as you make the transition from employee to entrepreneur? Don't let the high cost of it deter you from pursuing your dream of running your own business.

Individual rates are less expensive than family coverage, and can vary according to your age, previous health conditions and your current health status. If your spouse is eligible for health insurance benefits at work, find out if you can pick up coverage on that plan.

Another option is COBRA coverage, which allows you to continue on the same health plan from your soon-to-be former employer. This can be expensive, as you will pay the same monthly premium that your employer did, plus a 2% administrative fee. If this was a good plan it could cost you several hundred dollars a month. You can continue on COBRA for 18 months, so you have plenty of time to look into other insurance options during this time.

Spend a little time to investigate the cost of an individual policy. You can call the major insurers such as Carefirst, or instead speak with an insurance broker who should be able to give you quotes from several different insurers. If you are basically healthy, consider a policy with a high deductible that will cover well-care visits. This can buy pure resveratrol 98 you a lot of money each month over your COBRA coverage, but if you have an emergency you should be prepared to pay out of pocket until you meet your deductible.

Another alternative is to join an organization that offers a discount on insurance to its members. Research organizations that offer a low annual membership fee, fit with your type of business and offer other perks you may be interested in such as travel or car rental discounts.

It may take a little time to find the right health insurance plan for you, but this is an important benefit you should be sure to keep when you make the transition to being self-employed.

2008 Kathy Swann

Kathy Swann has over 25 years experience in office management, payroll and Human Resources and also works as a consultant for several small businesses. She is the author of the "How to Win" series of e-books available at http://www.SuncatcherPress.com