Freelance writers often underprice because they forget to account for research, editing, revisions, and the time between assignments. This calculator helps you find a rate that covers all of it.
// frequently asked questions
How much should a freelance writer charge per hour?
Freelance writer rates range from $20/hr for beginners to $150+/hr for specialist writers. Your rate should cover your income goal, taxes, and the significant non-billable time that writing involves. Use this calculator to find your floor.
How do I calculate my per-word rate from my hourly rate?
Estimate how many words you write per hour including editing. If you write 500 words/hr and need $50/hr, your per-word rate is $0.10. This calculator finds your hourly rate first, then you can convert to per-word.
Why do freelance writers undercharge?
Three main reasons: forgetting to account for research and revision time, assuming full billability when reality is 50-70%, and not factoring in tax. This calculator forces you to confront all three.