Freelancers Union announced on Mar. 23 that it is developing a new portable benefits program and is seeking feedback from independent workers to help shape the initiative.
The union said this effort comes as access to healthcare has become more difficult for freelancers, especially after the expiration of Affordable Care Act subsidies. The organization emphasized that many basic health plans are now out of reach for independent workers, while demand for flexible healthcare options continues to grow as more people enter freelance work.
According to Freelancers Union, new proposals for portable benefits aim to make it easier for clients to contribute funds into accounts that freelancers can use toward healthcare and other needs such as paid time off. These accounts would be designed to follow workers throughout their careers, allowing them to accumulate contributions from multiple sources.
“This could have enormous potential for freelancers who struggle to build a safety net — but they must be designed with workers’ needs put first,” the union said in its statement.
The organization invited freelancers to participate in a survey about their experiences with health insurance, retirement savings, and other benefits. The survey builds on an earlier one conducted at the end of 2025 and will directly inform how the new program is developed. Those interested in providing further input can opt in for a follow-up interview at the end of the survey.