How to Succeed in the Gig Economy

The 9-to-5 workweek is a staple in American culture, but times are changing. More than 53 million people currently work as freelancers, and an estimated 50% of the U.S. workforce will follow suit by 2020. If you're ready to jump in, take these steps as you move forward. Succeeding in the gig economy means establishing new income while managing expenses and planning for the future (easy, right)?

If you're leaving your job in favor of a better lifestyle, creating a financial plan is priority No. 1. If you haven't already, begin stashing money into an emergency fund to cover at least six months of living expenses. While you may not need to use it, the nature of freelancing is unpredictability, and it's important to establish a safety net along the way. It's also a good idea to learn whether you qualify for federal unemployment benefits under the Self-Employment Assistance Program, which provides financial support to solo entrepreneurs as they launch their businesses. Contact your state's Department of Labor to find out if you're covered.

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Source: Fool.com