<prompt> Human: I have a week left at work in education and I am leaving because of various reasons but mostly because of pay decrease. I am looking to start my own small business as a sole proprietor. I feel like I have no idea what the hell I am getting myself into and I am also nervous that I may somehow get myself in trouble with the IRS by not taking the necessary steps. I own a house and my health insurance will expire at work when I resign. How do I handle Health Insurance, If I am technically unemployed and do not register my business but make my payments on my house every month is there a red flag there? I have various ways of making money working with different people and also doing my own thing which is building furniture. What suggestions do you have for me. I feel lost.  <response>: Generally speaking, you should start the business before you quit your job.Try taking a course in entrepreneurship. There are many organizations which offer them and they can help you write a business plan and get going. 