Setting a contract day rate is not just your old salary divided by working days. You lose paid holiday, sick pay, pension contributions and the days between contracts — so a realistic billable year is often around 220 days or fewer. Enter your target income and billable days to see the rate you should quote.
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Frequently asked questions
How many days can I realistically bill?
Many contractors bill 200 to 230 days a year once holidays, illness, admin and bench time are removed from the ~260 working days.
Should I add more for no benefits?
Yes. As a contractor you fund your own pension, holiday and sick cover, so your rate should sit meaningfully above a simple salary split.