Which insurances do you need as a freelancer?

As a self-employed professional, you're your own boss. That gives you freedom, but also responsibility. Because what happens if you get sick, cause damage, or end up in a legal dispute? Unlike employees, you don’t have a safety net. That’s why insurance isn’t a luxury, it’s a smart investment in your future.

In this blog, you’ll discover which insurances are mandatory, which ones you really need, and how to keep them affordable.
So you can make confident choices that support your success.

Mandatory and common insurances for self-employed professionals

Not every insurance is legally required for freelancers. Still, there are a few you really shouldn’t go without – like liability, disability, and legal assistance. Some insurances are even required by clients or industry bodies.

Are there mandatory insurances for freelancers?

In most cases, you’re free to choose. But there are exceptions:

• Industry-specific requirements: Are you a medical specialist, financial advisor or architect? Then professional liability insurance is often mandatory.
• Business vehicles: Do you use a van or company car? Then business car insurance is required.
• Contractual obligations: Some clients require you to be insured for liability or disability.

Always check the conditions set by your industry and clients.

A closer look at essential freelancer insurances

Below are the most important insurances for freelancers, with explanations and examples.

Business liability insurance (AVB)

This insurance overs damage to people or property caused during your work. For example:

• You accidentally knock a client’s expensive laptop off the table.
• You damage the office floor during a job.

Especially useful for freelancers who do physical work or work on-site.

Professional liability insurance (BAV)

This insurance covers damage caused by mistakes in your work. For example:

• A financial advisor gives incorrect advice, causing financial loss.
• A graphic designer delivers the wrong file, ruining a print job.

Essential for freelancers in advisory or knowledge-based roles.

Disability insurance (AOV)

If you get sick or injured, you don’t receive paid leave as a freelancer. AOV provides income when you’re temporarily or permanently unable to work.

Keep in mind:

• You choose the waiting period (e.g. 1 or 3 months).
• You decide the insured amount.
• You choose how long the benefit lasts.

Alternative: a broodfonds, where freelancers support each other financially during illness.

Legal assistance insurance for freelancers

Covers legal help and advice in case of disputes with clients, suppliers or the tax authority.

Example:

• A client refuses to pay.
• You receive a fine you disagree with.
  

Business car insurance

If you mainly use your car for work, business car insurance is required. It covers damage from accidents, theft or vandalism.

Note: personal car insurance often doesn’t cover business use.

Inventory and goods insurance

Do you have a workspace, office or stock? This insurance protects your items against fire, theft or damage.

Example:

• Your laptop is stolen from your office.
• Water damage occurs in your workspace.
  

Other important freelancer insurances

Depending on your work, these may also be relevant:

• Cyber insurance: protection against data breaches and hacks.
• Business interruption insurance: compensation for downtime due to damage.
• Transport insurance: for freelancers who transport goods.
• Installation insurance: covers damage during setup or installation.: covers damage during setup or installation.
  

What do freelancer insurances cost and how can you keep them affordable?

Costs depend on:

1. Your profession and risks
2. Your revenue
3. The coverage you choose
4. Your age and health
5. Your deductible

On average, you’ll pay anywhere from a few dozen to several hundred euros per month. But being well insured helps avoid high costs when things go wrong.

Tips to save on freelancer insurances

• Compare providers: use online tools or get advice.
• Choose a higher deductible: this lowers your premium.
• Bundle insurances: some providers offer discounts.
• Review your coverage yearly: does your insurance still match your situation?

Your security as a self-employed professional: an investment in the future

Insurance isn’t just a cost – it’s a smart choice. It gives peace of mind, security, and helps you keep doing what you’re good at, even when things don’t go as planned.

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