Freelance of a different sort.

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  • mtthwsms

    So despite my extreme appreciation for design, I'm not gifted enough. However it turns out I'm pretty decent at writing as I just got my first job in print (magazine) and it is all freelance work. My question for you is what are the freelancers basics? Taxes? How do you usually accept payment? Is there a template my invoices should usually be in? Thank you.

  • e-wo0

    f r e e l a n c e s w i t c h . c o m

  • e-wo0

    Harvest.com for estimates, invoicing, time tracking, payments
    Outright.com for taxes

  • hellobotto0

    http://www.getballpark.com/ is a decent option if you're wanting to slowly warm to using an invoicing system for free for longer than 30 days. Note that "free" comes with a price...limited features.

    The key is taking time to run your business operations. You're making a living as a writer (congratulations! fantastic stuff.), but remember you're also an entrepreneur which means you have to set aside time to keep business in order. You don't have to sign up for online invoicing/accounting tools, but they definitely help if you're not one for keeping up with manila folders. You don't have to use services like PayPal to get paid (I don't like losing money to their transaction fee), but again, systems like theirs can help you manage the in/out of money.

    Regarding a template for invoicing, (aside from regular letterhead stuff) it really depends on the nature of your business and their assignment. Some clients may ask you to include a PO#, others might not. Some clients may ask you to include detailed descriptions of services rendered, others may just want a total sum and due date.

    In a nutshell...
    1. Be organized in your operations. Makes it easier to wrestle the beast known as "Your Business" and establishes a professional persona for existing and prospective clients.
    2. Be clear and comprehensive in your communications. Outline exactly what you'll do, when you'll do it, etc. If the client wants extra..."no problem, let me type up an addendum for you to review, and once I have written approval, I can get started." Save and file all communications with your respective projects.
    3. Be considerate while remaining vigilant regarding payment. There is a difference between the client can't pay and the client won't pay. I've found the honey/vinegar analogy rings true, but I keep a jug of vinegar ready just in case. Stay on top of pending transactions...don't let them lapse and don't let them fester. Keep in mind you should be as responsible as you expect your clients to be...if you don't approach getting paid seriously, then you will find yourself getting pushed around.
    4. Anticipate business ugh. Meaning...you may be audited by the tax man, you may be brought to court by a lawyer, you may be defending your work/actions to a client. If you apply the previous three steps, any potential ughness will still be ugh, but you'll be prepared with documentation (invoices, receipts, communcations, etc.) Hopefully it won't ever happen, but if it does, try to be the one writing the script, not the other way around.

    Good luck and congrats again on your first writing gig!

    (P.S. if you're stateside, quarterly taxes are due in 2 days.)