Minimum Rate Calculator β€” Palette & Blueprint
Palette & Blueprint β€” Free Tool

What should you actually charge?

Use this calculator to find your minimum hourly rate... the floor, not the ceiling. Based on the formula from the Real-Talk Pricing Starter Kit.

Annual desired income $36,000

What you actually want to take home. Not survive on... live on.

Annual business costs $3,000

Software, insurance, website, marketing, samples, training.

Billable hours per year 1,000 hrs

Most solo designers have 800–1,200 genuinely billable hours per year.

Total annual need $39,000
At this rate per month $3,250

This calculator is for educational purposes only and provides an estimate based on the numbers you enter. It does not constitute financial or business advice. Results will vary depending on your market, location, experience, and individual circumstances.

Your number is just the beginning.

Β The free Real-Talk Pricing Starter Kit goes deeper... with the full formula, 7 pricing models, and scripts for when a client questions your rate.

Plus three more guides to help you launch and run your business with confidence.

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