Freelance Rate Calculator
Calculate the hourly rate you need to charge as a freelancer. Accounts for self-employment tax, benefits, expenses, and time off.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the freelance rate higher than my salary hourly rate?
Freelancers must cover: self-employment tax (15.3%), health insurance, retirement contributions, business expenses, unpaid time off, and non-billable hours (admin, marketing). A typical freelance rate is 1.5-2x the equivalent employee hourly rate.
How many billable hours is realistic?
Most freelancers bill 25-35 hours per week. The rest is spent on admin, marketing, invoicing, and professional development. Full-time freelancers rarely bill more than 30-35 hours consistently.