How much should a beginner freelancer charge?
I just started freelancing and have no idea what to charge for my services. I see rates all over the place online and I am not sure if I should start low to get clients or aim higher from the beginning. For those who have been through this, how did you figure out your first rate and when did you know it was time to raise it?
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In my first two months of freelancing, I worked on projects that were way below my skill level because I was charging only $3 per hour. I was desperate to build a portfolio and get reviews. The turning point came when my mentor told me to check how much Filipino freelancers should charge in 2026 and aim for the middle of the range. I increased my rate from $3 to $6 per hour, then to $9 over the next three months. You should also raise your rate every time you hit a new milestone, like getting your first 5-star review or successfully completing a big project. It is okay to start low, but do not stay there for too long. Keep pushing your rate up as you improve.