How to Research Salary Ranges and Benefits for a Freelance Writer

Motivated freelance writers today can earn a respectable living of between $27,000 and $49,000 a year but, to succeed in this career, you need to be a "fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants" expert.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• MLA Style Manual
• Dictionaries
• Thesauri
• Laser Printers
• Internet Access
• Dental Insurance
• Health Insurance
• Office Supplies
• Computers

1. Get in touch with the fact that "freelance" means self-employed, with no guarantee of being able to bring home the bacon on a regular basis.
2. Understand that self-employed also means no benefits, like health insurance, paid vacation, 401K plan and vision care. You will find most of these services offered through professional associations, but the cost will likely be higher than if you were a full-time, in-house employee of ABC or XYZ Company.
3. Check out freelance writer job boards and discussion groups, as salary ranges and benefits are popular topics. This can also be a useful way of discovering if you have the qualifications employers are looking for in a freelance writer.
4. Read your local newspaper and magazines and look for bylines that say things like "Contributor," "Special Correspondent" or "Guest Columnist." These are often freelance writers in disguise. Contact them for the inside track on salaries and benefits.
5. Consider working a part-time "real job" to supplement your income if you are not comfortable going totally solo.

Tips & Warnings

• Budget your money carefully. Freelancing is often feast or famine - during the feast, you will need to sock away money to cover your expenses during the famine period.
• Be prepared to face stiff competition for freelance jobs. It will take creativity, talent, determination and motivation to make it as a freelancer.
• Don't be surprised if you encounter employers wanting to pay you rates of $0.25 or $1. Just keep in mind these rates are usually given per word instead of per hour for freelance writers.
• Get a signed contract from employers on each project if possible. That way you have grounds for action if they stiff you once you have submitted the completed work.

Who Can Help:

• Earn an Associate's, Bachelor's or Master's Degree from the University of Phoenix
• University of Phoenix, degree Programs to Fit Your Life.