As a freelance writer, I receive quite a few questions from people when they find out what I do for a living. Here are some FAQs I get about being a freelance writer, freelancing while working from home (yes, with kids!), and the best time to make the leap to full-time freelancing–whether you’re a beginner freelance writer who’s just getting started or a seasoned side hustle freelancer looking to take your business to the next level earn $100 an hour freelancing.

Freelancer FAQs Answered by a Full-Time Freelance Writer

Freelance FAQ: How much do freelance writers make daily?

In all honesty, I earn more money freelance writing than I ever did when I worked full-time on staff at magazines. These days, my annual goal is to earn a six-figure freelance salary (or average that monthly) while working fewer than 20 hours per week. I work with higher-paying freelance clients and set hourly freelance rates that help me achieve my goals. As a freelancer, time is your most valuable asset. Make sure you use it wisely.

Freelance FAQ: Should I quit a job I hate to go full-time freelance?

Don’t quit if you don’t have experience, clients lined up, or are a trust-fund baby. Okay ,that last one is kind of a joke but seriously, make sure you have some money in the bank before pursuing this full-time. People want to quit their jobs and take a stab at freelancing because they are bored, don’t like their boss, hate their commute, or can’t stand the sound of a coworker chewing. They think freelance writing will be the answer. It took me nearly a decade to make the leap to do this full-time and make a living in NYC on a freelance writer’s salary. Many freelancers should be able to go full-time much faster than that but I encourage prudent decision-making before making the leap.

For more - check out my freelance coaching services for one-on-one help and guidance.

Freelance FAQ: How much do freelancers pay in taxes?

I’m not an accountant or tax expert so I recommend you find one first if you’re freelancing to answer taxes for freelance writers questions. Some quick advice (for Americans) if you’re new to freelancing and curious about your taxes:

Set aside at least 30% percent of your gross earnings for taxes throughout the year.
Get professional help with business write-offs for your taxes and establish a business checking account and credit card.
Pay estimated quarterly taxes after your first year or check with an accountant to see if you should do it sooner.
1. Freelancer FAQ: Should freelancers work on a set schedule or when they feel inspired?

Everyone is different and the best time to work on your freelance business varies from person to person. Some people are productive night owls and others prefer to get assignments done first thing. My biggest piece of advice is to discover the best time to write that works for you. Maintain a few set hours–for me, it’s when my nanny is watching my children and then I add in other hours, as needed. It’s also important to remember the time zone your clients are in and when you will likely receive responses from them. No matter what, in order to be a successful freelancer you need to block out time in your calendar for your freelance business. Neglecting this is one of the top mistakes freelancers make.

Freelance FAQ: How do you find work-life balance while freelancing?

Everyone thought working from home was the best thing ever for a freelancer before the pandemic and then they quickly realized that you still need to maintain work-life balance and boundaries. (Some people hate the phrase “work-life balance” and I get it–usually you’re performing better in one area or the other at a time, not both simultaneously.) I sometimes need to step outside my home office for mental breaks or work in a library or coffee shop for a change of scenery. Additionally, try not to be too hard on yourself if you’re struggling to find motivation. There needs to be a balance between work and taking a break.

What freelance FAQs do you have that I didn’t answer?

Get more freelancer FAQs here.

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