Freelance Rate Calculator
Find out what you need to charge as a freelancer. Enter your income goal, business costs, tax, time off and realistic billable hours to get your minimum hourly rate, day rate and project examples.
How to calculate your freelance rate
- Enter the monthly take-home you need.
- Add business costs like software, internet and equipment.
- Set aside tax and a safety buffer for slow months.
- Enter realistic billable hours and weeks off, then read your minimum rates.
Why billable hours are lower than you think
| Activity | Paid? |
|---|---|
| Client work | Yes |
| Finding clients and proposals | No |
| Calls, emails and revisions | Often no |
| Invoicing and admin | No |
| Learning new skills | No |
Most freelancers bill 20 to 30 hours in a 40 to 50 hour week.
Hourly, project or retainer?
Use your hourly rate to price everything, even if you quote per project or per month. Project prices reward speed and clear scope. Monthly retainers give steady income for ongoing work like SEO or social media. Never price below your floor just to win a client.
Related tools
Price fixed projects with the project pricing calculator, set monthly fees with the retainer calculator, and send a quotation or invoice.
More free tools and guides
Practise tools like this on real projects in our digital marketing course in Faridabad, with weekday, weekend and online batches.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is this freelance rate calculator free?
Yes. It is free with no sign-up, and your numbers stay in your browser.
How much should a beginner freelancer charge?
Start from your minimum rate here, and raise it as you build results and testimonials. Market rates vary a lot by skill and client.
Should I include GST in my rate?
Quote your rate before GST. If you are registered, add GST on the invoice.
How many billable hours should I plan for?
Plan for 20 to 30 hours a week, since the rest goes to sales, admin and learning.