Work backwards from the income you want to keep. Enter your target take-home pay, costs, an estimated tax rate and realistic working days; the calculator shows the minimum day and hourly rate (excluding VAT) that gets you there.
Day rate (excl. VAT)
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Hourly rate (excl. VAT)
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Billable days per year
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Nothing you type leaves your device. Planning aid only, not tax or legal advice. Last checked .
Billable days = (260 weekdays − holidays − public holidays − sick days) × (1 − non-billable %).
Day rate = revenue ÷ billable days; hourly rate = day rate ÷ billable hours per day.
The tax step uses one flat rate, which is a simplification: real income tax is usually progressive, so your effective rate depends on your income level. Use a national tax calculator to refine the percentage. The guide How to calculate your freelance day rate in Europe walks through a full example.
FAQ
How many billable days does a freelancer have per year?+
Start with about 260 weekdays, subtract holidays, public holidays (they vary by country, often around 8–14 days) and sick days, then subtract the share of time spent on admin, sales and learning. Many full-time freelancers end up well below 220 billable days; the calculator lets you set your own assumptions.
Is the result with or without VAT?+
Without VAT. Quote it as a net rate and add VAT on top where it applies (domestic clients, if you are VAT registered). For B2B clients in other EU countries the reverse charge usually applies, so the invoice shows no VAT.
What should I put as the tax percentage?+
Your expected effective rate on profit for income tax plus social contributions combined. Use your national tax calculator or ask an accountant; the default is only an example.
Should I charge per day or per hour?+
Both are common in Europe. Day rates suit project and consulting work and avoid tracking every hour; hourly rates suit small or variable tasks. The calculator gives you both from the same assumptions.
Is this the market rate for my skill?+
No. It is your minimum sustainable rate based on your costs and goals. Compare it with what clients in your market pay. If your required rate is above the market, look at costs, utilisation or positioning.
Last checked: . General information, not tax or legal advice. Rules and national details change: check locally with your tax authority or an accountant.
