Decision workflow · 5 steps
Starting Freelance? Run These 5 Numbers First
Before you quote your next client, run these five numbers. They take about 10 minutes total and will tell you whether your rate covers your costs, how many clients you need, what scope creep is costing you, and how to handle late payments.
Find your rate floor
Your rate floor is the minimum you can charge and still hit your income goal after overhead and taxes. Price below this and you are losing money — even if the client pays on time.
Benchmark: US freelance web developers charge $55-130/hr (BLS-adjusted).
Calculate your break-even point
How many clients or projects do you need per month to cover all fixed costs? This number tells you whether your pipeline is realistic or wishful thinking.
Quantify your scope creep risk
If you consistently deliver 40% more hours than you quote, your effective rate drops by 28%. Enter your typical project to see the real damage — and decide whether to re-price or add change-order clauses.
Benchmark: Median project overrun is 20% of quoted hours.
Set your invoice terms
Late payments are not just annoying — they are a cash flow problem. Set grace periods and late fees before your first invoice, not after the first dispute.
Compare to a salaried offer
If a client offers a full-time salaried position, you need to compare it on equal terms. This calculator includes PTO, benefits, and overtime so you see the real difference.
Frequently asked questions
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Freelance Pricing Mastery →Set rates, protect margins, and stop leaving money on the table.