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Free Guides

Guides & Publications

13 in-depth guides covering all five protection gaps. Written for Detroit’s independent workers. Free to read online or download as PDF.

Health Insurance
Guide

Michigan Marketplace Survival Guide

Navigate the ACA Marketplace as a self-employed Michigan resident. Plans, subsidies, and enrollment windows explained.

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Guide

HSA vs PPO: What Freelancers Need

Understanding the real tradeoffs between high-deductible HSA plans and traditional PPO coverage.

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Taxes
Guide

Detroit 1099 Tax Breakdown

Federal SE tax, Michigan income tax, and Detroit city tax for Detroit freelancers.

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Guide

Quarterly Taxes: First-Timer Guide

How quarterly estimated payments work and how to calculate what you owe.

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Guide

LLC vs S-Corp: Know the Difference

When the S-Corp election reduces taxes and when the added complexity is not worth it.

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Retirement
Guide

Solo 401k vs SEP IRA

The two most powerful retirement accounts for self-employed workers compared for 2026.

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Guide

When to Start Your Retirement Account

Why Detroit freelancers wait too long and what the delay actually costs.

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Liability & Legal
Guide

Do Freelancers Really Need Liability Insurance?

Who needs it, what it covers, and what it costs for Detroit independent workers.

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Guide

Freelance Contract Starter Guide

Essential clauses every Michigan freelance contract needs.

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Guide

Getting Paid on Time

Late payment prevention and escalation options when clients do not pay.

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Income Stability
Guide

Building an Emergency Fund on Irregular Income

Why Detroit freelancers need 6-12 months and a system for building it.

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Guide

How to Set Your Freelance Rate

Calculate the rate that actually covers taxes, insurance, retirement, and your target income.

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Guide

The Real Cost of Freelancing in Detroit

What self-employment actually costs Detroit freelancers each year across all five gaps.

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