You read articles all the time about freelance writers who have earned $30,000, $40,000, or even $60,000 a year doing what they love. In fact, it’s success stories like those that partly inspired you to try your hand in the freelance writing business yourself. Perhaps you earn a few bucks here and there working with writing agencies or you have a few clients, but your income is nowhere near what you’d hoped it would be. Close to giving up on the idea altogether, you can’t help but wonder how they do it. [Read more…]
Managing Cash Flow When the Unexpected Happens
Freelancing in any field carries risks. How can you possibly feel safe when you’re not getting a steady, guaranteed paycheck? However, experienced freelancers know the truth. With a traditional job, you could be fired or laid off at any time—meaning you have less control over your income than you do when you’re self-employed. [Read more…]
Funding Options for Freelance Writers
Whether you are a part-time freelance writer trying to make some extra money in your spare time or you want to make a living from your freelance writing projects, there are often times when you need funding to make these projects a reality.
There are a variety of funding options for freelance writers, depending on the type of project they are working on. Some options are better for those who need capital to start and maintain a business, while others work best for creative projects that require a one-time funding source. Below are four funding options available to freelance writers, along with some information on when and how to pursue them. [Read more…]
Financial Pitfalls for Freelance Writers – and How to Avoid Them
Freelance writers have all the financial freedom in the world, don’t we?
I wish!!! The truth is that while we do have the potential to earn more than if we held a 9-to-5 job, the degree of financial uncertainty is always there. It’s not far from the truth to say that freelance writers may face more uncertainty when it comes to financial issues.
While we do have those periods when we get a whole lot of money, there are financial pitfalls that we should not ignore. If we tend to “live easy, love free”, before we know it, we might need the assistance of an expert bankruptcy lawyer to get out of the mess we’ve – perhaps unwittingly – created.
If you’re financially responsible, good for you. You can pass up on this post. If you’re not so sure, then I hope you continue reading so that you can avoid these financial pitfalls that may not be easily recognizable.
Taking clients for granted
Just like some employees may take their day jobs and bosses for granted, it may be that some freelance writers take their regular clients for granted. The thinking may be, “We’ve been working together for so long. It’s going to last forever.”
How is this a financial pitfall?
If you take your clients for granted, you may not be sensitive to their needs. You may not deliver the best work you possibly can. The result is that you may lose their business.
The solution: Take preemptive measures. Treat each client – old or new – as if they were your only source of income. Give them your best, and don’t take them for granted, even though they may be the easiest person to work with.
Taking job hunting for granted
In the same way you may fall into the trap of taking clients for granted, you might take job hunting for granted. You have a lot of clients. You have more than enough on your plate. Why look for freelance writing job opportunities regularly?
Here’s why: You never know when you might lose a big client. It is thus important that you have a rolling roster of clients that can make up for an unexpected loss.
The solution: While you don’t have to always bite off more than you can chew, do apply for jobs now and then. Even small jobs can lead to long-term, more profitable ventures.
Also read: Why It Is Important to Get New Clients Even if You Have Enough Regular Work
Not paying close attention to taxes
I don’t have to emphasize just how important it is to pay your taxes. The IRS has its ways, and it will find out if you’re not paying your dues at some point. The thing is, sometimes, you may not be aware of all your responsibilities as a freelance writer taxpayer. The excuse that “you don’t know” won’t work. If you don’t declare and pay your taxes correctly, you might face enormous fines, which could deplete your savings – or worse.
The solution: Learn about your obligations as a taxpayer. If you can’t do it yourself, hire an accountant.
Any career has its financial pitfalls, but for freelance writers, the stakes may be a little higher simply because of the lack of traditional job security. With a little bit of care and foresight, we can avoid those financial pitfalls.
What other potential financial pitfalls do you see or have experienced? Share them with us in the comments!
Managing Expenses as a Telecommuting Writer
Our personal and professional lives often blur as freelance writers, since you might complete a few assignments during the morning at a cafe, attend a sports event or birthday party, and then resume your work in the evening. Many are drawn to the freelance lifestyle because it gives you time and location flexibility that few jobs can offer. However, you can become shackled by poor spending habits, especially if you don’t watch your money management while working. Here are a few tips on sustaining your freelance lifestyle without breaking the bank. [Read more…]
