What Should You Charge Per Hour?
Most people set a freelance rate by taking the salary they want and dividing by 2,080. That number is always too low, because it ignores self-employment tax, expenses, and every hour you work but cannot bill. This starts from what you want to keep and works backwards.
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Federal figures only, using 2026 rates. It solves for the revenue that leaves you with your target income after self-employment tax, federal income tax and business expenses. It does not include state or local income tax, health insurance premiums, retirement contributions, the self-employed health insurance deduction, or credits. Nothing here is reserved for unpaid time off or gaps between clients. Estimates only, not tax advice.