Most freelancers are terrified to raise rates. They think the client will immediately fire them and hire someone cheaper.
The truth? Clients fear finding a new freelancer more than they fear paying you a little more. Hiring is risky, time-consuming, and stressful. If you are already reliable and do good work, you have leverage.
When to Raise Rates
There are three perfect times to do this:
- The New Year (Jan 1st): It's a natural reset point for budgets.
- After a Big Win: Did you just deliver a project that made them a ton of money? Strike while the iron is hot.
- When You are Too Busy: If you are booked solid, supply and demand dictates your price must go up.
How Much?
Don't do 3%. That's barely inflation. Aim for 10% to 20%. It's significant enough to change your life, but usually small enough to fit within their buffer.
The Script (Copy Paste This)
Keep it short. Do not apologize. Do not over-explain ("my rent went up"). Just state it as a business fact.
"Hi [Client Name],
I've really enjoyed working with you on [Project] this past year.
I'm writing to let you know that as my business has grown and expenses have increased, I am updating my standard rate card for 2026.
Starting Feb 1st, my new rate will be [New Rate]. This adjustment allows me to keep delivering the high-quality, reliable service you expect without spreading myself too thin.
I value our partnership and look forward to helping you crush your goals in Q1. Let me know if you have any questions!
Best,
[Your Name]"
The Aftermath
80% of clients will say "Okay."
10% will negotiate (you can meet them in the middle).
10% might leave. Let them go.
If you raise your rates by 20% and lose 20% of your clients, you are making the same money for less work. That is a win.
Once they agree, make sure your very next invoice reflects the new rate clearly. Confidence is key.