How to de-risk going 1099

by Dale Davidson

Going 1099 is not without its risks. I spend almost two years being un-billable (that is 1099 speak for unemployed) for a mix of things I could and could not control.

Here's what you can do to de-risk the move to your first 1099 gig:

  • Be good at a marketable skill
  • Get back up, W2 job offers
  • Build a good client relationship if you're currently working as a government contractor
  • Re-engage your network; let them know you're keeping an eye out for new opportunities
  • Save up 3-6 months in an emergency fund (you need at least at two months of expenses to go 1099)
  • If you're in the window for a security clearance re-investigation, try to finish it at your current job

If you do these things you'll feel way more secure about striking out on your own and that confidence is its own advantage in finding your first 1099 gig.

Want the full playbook? Check out Going 1099.

Back to Newsletter