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Project cost calculator for freelance quotes

Estimate hours for each phase, add expenses and a buffer for revisions, and see the quote total and what each hour really earns.

Stock photos, software, travel, printing.

For revisions and surprises. 10 to 20% is common.

Only if your state taxes your service. Many services are exempt.

Quote total

$5,632.00

Labor
$4,680.00
Buffer
$702.00
Expenses
$250.00
Tax
$0.00
Total hours
52
Effective hourly rate
$103.50

The effective rate is what each hour earns after the buffer and discount, without expenses or tax. Nothing you type leaves your browser.

IN SHORT

To price a project, estimate the hours for each phase and multiply by your rate. Add a buffer of 10 to 20 percent for revisions and surprises, then expenses you pass on to the client. Take off any discount and add sales tax only if your state taxes the service. Divide the price before tax and expenses by the hours to check your effective rate.

Prices and limits as of .

Questions

How much buffer should I add to a quote?
Many freelancers add 10 to 20 percent of the labor estimate. Use more for new kinds of work or clients who change their minds, and less for work you've done many times.
Should I show the hours on the quote?
Not necessarily. A fixed price per phase or for the whole project avoids arguments about hours. Keep the hourly breakdown for yourself to check that the price pays your rate.
What is the effective hourly rate?
What each estimated hour earns after the buffer and discount, without expenses or tax. If it falls below your normal rate, the discount or the scope needs another look.
Do I charge sales tax on services?
It depends on the state and the service. Many states don't tax most professional services, and some tax digital products or specific services. Check your state's rules before adding tax.

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