Smart calculators for independent professionals
Figure out what to charge when you're just starting your freelance career.
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Setting your first freelance rate is intimidating — charge too much and you might not land clients, charge too little and you'll burn out. This calculator helps new freelancers find a realistic starting point based on actual numbers, not guesswork. It's prefilled conservatively, because starting rates should be a floor you raise quickly, not a ceiling.
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Get immediate results with prefilled settings for this scenario. Adjust any value to match your exact situation.
There's no universal answer, but this calculator gives you a personalized number. As a rough benchmark, most new freelancers in skilled fields (design, development, writing) start at $40–$75/hour. Avoid going below the rate that covers your costs — even as a beginner, unprofitable work isn't good experience.
Review rates every 3–6 months during your first two years. Raise them for new clients first (existing clients can be phased in). A 10–20% increase every 6 months is aggressive but achievable if you're building a portfolio and getting referrals.
Very sparingly, if at all. Offer discounted rates (not free) for 1–2 portfolio-building projects, then move to full pricing. Better alternatives: personal projects, redesigns of existing sites/brands (spec work), or contributing to open source projects to showcase your skills.
Key signals: you're fully booked and turning down work, clients say yes immediately without negotiating, you're working long hours but not hitting income goals, or you feel resentful about the work. Any of these means it's time to raise your rate.
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Disclaimer
This calculator provides estimates for planning purposes only. Your actual tax obligations and expenses depend on your jurisdiction, deductions, and individual circumstances. Consult a tax professional for personalized advice.