The network for creativity
Join 1.25M professional creatives like you
Connect with clients, get discovered, and run your business 100% commission-free
Creatives on Contra have earned over $150M and we are just getting started
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Most people calculate their freelance rate wrong.
Salary ÷ 2,080 hours = your number, right?
Wrong. A 150K salary does not equal 72/hr freelance.
Once you factor in:
• Health insurance (around 13K/year on your own)
• 401k match (often 6–8K/year)
• Self-employment tax (15.3% on profits)
• Unbillable time (25–50% of your work)
You’re usually closer to a 140–160/hr minimum just to stand still.
The 1099 Simulator calculates your actual rate before you make the leap.
🔗 ptjxc3mzqc.youware.app
Input your W-2 compensation, see your real freelance rate, and compare three scenarios: Hustle Mode, Balanced, and Easy Mode.
Built with @YouWare.
Not vibes. Just math.
#YouWareChallenge
No vibes. Just math. 😀 Sometimes indeed it's helpful.
The network for creativity
Join 1.25M professional creatives like you
Connect with clients, get discovered, and run your business 100% commission-free
Creatives on Contra have earned over $150M and we are just getting started
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