After years working in permanent employment, Marieke den Ouden went full-time self-employed this year. And that brought up new questions. “I’ve become more aware of the vulnerability that comes with running your own business. In case of illness, but also when it comes to my long-term financial situation.”

At a talk, she heard about Platform ACCT’s schemes. “That gave me a good push to actually get started.” Through ZZP-Adviescheck, she got in touch with several parties and eventually chose an advisor affiliated with her professional association.

The result: Marieke has since taken out income protection insurance. “That gives me peace of mind and makes me feel less vulnerable as a self-employed professional.” For her pension, she’s still exploring options, her financial advisor is currently putting together a plan.

Her tip: “It’s maybe not the first thing you think of when you start out on your own, but it gives real peace of mind to have your affairs properly arranged. Don’t put it off too long, get informed, and also ask about financial benefits or tax schemes.”

With the arrival of the mandatory basic incapacity for work insurance (BAZ), Nina wanted to get a clear picture of her situation. “I’d been part of a Broodfonds for a long time, but hadn’t thought about the long term yet. At first I understood very little of it.”

Through ZZP-Adviescheck, she applied for advice on income protection provisions. The advisory conversation brought clarity. Nina mapped out the pros and cons of various options, allowing her to make a well-considered choice. She decided to take out an AOV (income protection insurance) that fits her situation, alongside her Broodfonds, and consciously chose not to go with the mandatory BAZ.

“It gave me more insight and confidence. I now know where I stand, and that my affairs are arranged for the long term.”

Sasha Witteveen saw the mandatory basic incapacity for work insurance (BAZ) coming and didn’t want to wait it out. “I wanted to find an AOV (income protection insurance) that suits me, instead of a mandatory standard that isn’t favourable.” On pension, she still knew little. “I wanted to learn how to build a more financially secure future.”

Through ZZP-Adviescheck, she applied for advice on both topics. The application went easily.

The result is concrete: Sasha has taken out an AOV with ASR and opened investment accounts with BND. “I’ve gained more concrete knowledge about AOV and pension, and a clearer financial outlook for the future.”

Ioana Maria Caramiciu is an industrial designer specialised in textile innovation, and runs Alaris Studio in Eindhoven, where she uses 4D textile printing to create soft, sculptural objects. She applied for advice on financing and rates, and her future working relationship. “I started my business a year ago, so I’m still figuring out the right path for myself. I’m learning how to translate customer needs into products, how to set the right price for my work, and how to build a feasible business model. At the same time, I’m looking for ways to get a more stable income.”

The advice got her thinking about her design practice and which decisions really matter. “I now make more structured financial decisions, and actually calculate my margins.”