How to Price Your Service (and Say It With Confidence)

By Ruby Hafez, founder of MomProAI · 15+ years selling online · Updated October 8, 2026

Short answer: Multiply the hours the work takes by your real hourly target, then add a 20% buffer for the parts that always take longer. Say the price, say what it includes, and stop talking.

Many moms underprice because they guess, then apologize for the number. Use math you trust instead.

The formula

(Hours to deliver × your real hourly target) + 20% buffer = your price.

Find your real hourly target

Take the income you actually need this month and divide it by the billable hours you really have, after school pickups and everything else. That number is usually higher than you expect, and that's fine.

Example

A project takes 5 hours and your target is $40 an hour: 5 × $40 = $200, plus 20% = $240.

Say it without flinching

"For this project, my rate is $240. That covers [what's included]. I can send the agreement today if you'd like to move forward." Then pause. Let the silence sit.

Try it free

The Price Confidence Calculator suggests your price and the exact words to say it. Free, no email, no signup.

Open the Price Confidence Calculator, free

Frequently asked questions

How do I price my service as a beginner?

Estimate the hours, multiply by your real hourly target, and add a 20% buffer for the parts that take longer than planned.

How do I find my hourly target?

Divide the income you need this month by the billable hours you realistically have.

How do I stop discounting myself?

Write your price line down, practice it out loud, and say the price and what it includes without adding 'but I'm flexible'.