Freelance Hourly Rate Calculator

How Freelancers Should Calculate Their Hourly Rate

One of the most common mistakes new freelancers make is basing their rate on a standard 40-hour work week. As a freelancer, you won't bill 40 hours a week. You need to account for time spent on:

• Marketing and finding clients
• Invoicing and administrative tasks
• Vacation, sick days, and public holidays
• Skill development and keeping up with your field

This calculator focuses on billable hours— the hours you actually charge clients — and bakes your taxes and expenses directly into your recommended rate, so you're never left short.

Tax Rates by Country

Not sure what tax percentage to use in the calculator? These are general self-employment tax estimates commonly used by freelancers and independent professionals.

Please note that actual taxes vary depending on:

• income level
• deductions
• business structure
• state or provincial laws
• local regulations

Common Freelancer Tax Estimates

• United States: ~25%–35% including self-employment taxes
• United Kingdom: ~20%–40% depending on income band
• Canada: ~20%–33% depending on province and income
• Australia: ~19%–45% depending on taxable income
• European countries: Rates vary significantly by country and local tax system

These figures are intended for educational and planning purposes only.

For accurate tax guidance, always consult a qualified accountant or tax professional in your region.