How To Start Freelance Writing in 2026: A Totally Newbie’s Guide

Disclaimer: What I’ve written in this post is based on my experience as a Filipino Freelance Writer. This is in no way the only path to freelance writing. I’m sharing what has worked for me, and hopefully it can give you helpful insights as you start your own journey. Enjoy!

Well, hello there! So you want to become a freelance writer, am I right? Consider reading this post as your unofficial first step to your freelance writing career. I started in that exact spot, too, wondering about the hows of this process and learning the ropes on my own. 

But, before I even get to the juicy part, let me tell you one thing. Starting your freelance writing career is the easiest step. So, you don’t have to feel anxious or scared of it. You just need a simple process all laid out in front of you to start, and I’m here to give you that in six simple steps! 

Step One: Find a niche (topic or industry you want to write for)

The freelance writing world is vast, and so are the topics and industries you can write for. Though you may enjoy writing for every type of industry, I suggest you don’t do that because it can pose more disadvantages for you. 

For instance, if your background and expertise are inclined to food, yet you took a client specializing in car engines, your turnaround time for completing one project will significantly take longer. You would need more time for research, studying the industry’s jargon, and writing a piece that speaks to their audience. The pay you receive may not be equivalent to the amount of time and effort you put in.

Another thing to consider is how potential clients will see you. Let’s say your portfolio consists of articles on technology, construction, and real estate, and you want to apply for a mental health company. Your potential client might go for a writer who has more experience in the mental health space.

So, how do you select your niche? Ask yourself:

• What topics do you enjoy reading or writing about? 
• What do your friends and family consider you an expert in? 
• What did you study or focus on during your years in school? 

Write down your answers and find the common denominator. Et voila, that is your niche! 

If you’re not satisfied with the result and you want to account for profitability, you can always go to Mr. Google and search for the top-paying writing industries and go from there. Though if you go through with this path, you may need to set aside ample time to learn about the ins and outs of your chosen niche.

Step Two: Decide on what type of freelance writer you will be

There are many different paths you can take as a freelance writer, and choosing the right one can help you attract better clients and build a portfolio that truly reflects your strengths.

Here are a few examples of freelance writing paths you can explore:

• Blog Writer 
• Social Media Content Writer
• Email Copywriter
• Website Content Writer 
• General Copywriter 
• Technical Writer
• Ghostwriter
• Scriptwriter 

I suggest you start with what you’re most comfortable with and what medium you have the most experience in. In my case, I started out as a technical course writer. Though course writing isn’t always the typical choice, it is a good starting point, especially for people whose writing experience is mostly focused on school papers and research writing. 

I was a university instructor before I decided to become a freelance writer. My experience in writing modules, learning materials, and presentations for my students was a big plus when I applied as a course writer. Learning the process of course writing was a breeze for me as well. 

Don’t be discouraged if you want to pursue other types of freelance writing in the future. Just like with any skill, writing can be learned. Though I started as a course writer, I am now a copy and content writer after upskilling and finding the right niche for me. 

Step Three: Create your portfolio or resume

It’s time to compile all your past work into one place, your portfolio. What you add in here can make potential clients say yes and choose you among other candidates. You have to make sure that your portfolio contains all of your best work. 

But, you’re a beginner, how do you build a portfolio? You can either do a test project for other companies, pro bono, or simply write a sample for the niche you have chosen. Your work does not need to be published on a website to be accepted. The important part is that it is written by you. 

You don’t need a dozen sample writings when starting out. All you need is 2-3 of your best works and compile them in a shareable folder. Also, don’t forget to add your personal information so they know who you are. 

If you’re worried about not having a lot to put inside your portfolio, don’t worry; some companies opt for a test project. You can use this as an opportunity to showcase your skills in real time. Treat it like a paid project! Even if you don’t land the job, you now have another strong sample to add to your portfolio. 

Step Four: Determine your rates and how you want to get paid

Let’s move on to the very important decision you need to make when becoming a freelance writer, and that is your rate. There are many ways to calculate your rate. You can go per hour, per word, per project, or a retainer’s fee. 

Rate per hour

An hourly rate means you’re paid based on how long it takes you to complete a writing project. It might seem like a good deal at first, especially when you’re still learning and need more time to finish a piece. But as you get faster and more efficient, your earnings actually go down. 

I don’t recommend sticking with this model long-term. It can work when you’re just starting out, handling one-time projects, or using it as a baseline before switching to a better pricing structure.

How to Determine Your Hourly Rate:

1. Assess Your Experience and Skills: Beginner writers might start with a lower rate, while seasoned professionals can command higher fees.​
2. Research Market Rates: Look into what writers with similar expertise are charging.​
3. Calculate Your Desired Annual Income: Decide on your target yearly earnings, factor in expenses and taxes, and divide by the number of billable hours you plan to work.​

Formula: (Desired Monthly Income + Expenses) ÷ Monthly Billable Hours = Hourly Rate

Content writers typically charge between $15 and $40 per hour. ​However, I want you to manage your expectations. Some clients may offer a lower starting point, but with an opportunity to increase your rate after a review period.

Rate per word

This pricing model pays you based on the number of words you write. I prefer this over an hourly rate because I have the freedom to finish the project without getting timed, eliminating the pressure (but that’s just me!). It’s also easier to quote for different content types based on length.

How to determine your per-word rate:

Time yourself on a few projects, figure out how long it takes to complete them, then calculate a rate that makes sense for your time, skill, and income goals.

Formula: Hourly Rate ÷ Words Per Hour = Per Word Rate

Beginner writers often charge between $0.05 and $0.10 per word, while experienced writers may charge $1.00 or more per word. When I first started, I was initially offered $0.03 per word with a three-month evaluation period. After that time frame, my rate was raised to $0.05 per word, and from then on, I received higher-paying projects with them.

So yes, you can be selective with clients. But don’t be too quick to turn down lower offers, especially from good companies, if they’re transparent and show genuine interest in helping you grow. Sometimes those small beginnings come with big opportunities.

Rate per project

This is one of the best models I recommend, especially once you’re more confident in your writing and time management skills. With per-project pricing, you set a flat fee based on the entire job. It gives both you and the client clarity on deliverables and expectations.

Don’t be afraid to try this model early on! The more experience you gain, the easier it’ll be to estimate how long projects take and price them fairly.

How to Determine Your Per-Project Rate:

1. Estimate Time Commitment: Calculate the total hours required for the project, including research, writing, and revisions.​
2. Apply Your Hourly Rate: Multiply the estimated hours by your hourly rate.​
3. Consider Project Complexity: Adjust the rate based on the project’s difficulty and the value it provides to the client.

Formula: (Estimated Hours × Hourly Rate) + Adjustments = Project Rate

Freelance writers charge anywhere from $50 to $1,500 per article, with variations based on length, research required, and writer expertise.

Rate per retainer’s fee

Now, to my favorite payment structure, the retainer’s fee. If you’re not familiar with this concept, think of it as a monthly salary for a fixed number of projects you turn in every month. 

You get to lay down all the services you offer a client each month and set a price! You can finish this project as fast or as slow as you want, as long as you stay within your set deadline/project completion date. This is also best for recurring clients, ones that you give an output to every month.

I’ve been following this pricing structure for a couple of years now, and I really like the flexibility it has. Plus, if a client wants something outside the agreed scope, you can always charge an add-on or adjust the retainer if it becomes a regular need. 

This setup works especially well for blog content, weekly newsletters, or social media posts delivered on a consistent schedule.

How to Determine Your Retainer Fee:

1. Define Monthly Deliverables: Agree with the client on a set number of pieces or hours per month.​
2. Calculate Monthly Workload: Estimate the total hours needed to fulfill the agreed-upon deliverables.​
3. Set Monthly Fee: Multiply the total hours by your hourly rate, and consider offering a slight discount for the guaranteed ongoing work.

Formula: (Monthly Hours × Hourly Rate) – Discount = Retainer Fee

Many freelance writers negotiate retainers ranging from $500 to $2,000 per month, depending on the volume and complexity of work.​

Step Five: Look for companies that are hiring and reach out

I found my first clients through OnlineJobs as a beginner, and the rest of my clients were through referral and word of mouth. However, most experts I encountered before recommend cold pitching, and the best way to find possible clients using this method is through LinkedIn.

Here are my recommended sites to find clients, whether you’re looking for job boards or cold pitching:

LinkedIn

• Best platform for cold pitching and networking
• Connect with decision-makers and post helpful content
• Join industry-specific groups for job leads

OnlineJobs.ph

• Ideal for beginners, especially in the Philippines
• Offers full-time, part-time, and project-based writing jobs
• Many clients are looking for long-term hires

Upwork

• Great for building a portfolio and gaining experience
• Competitive, but gets easier with strong reviews
• Always personalize your proposals

Fiverr

• Set up writing service packages and let clients find you
• Focus on a niche and create a standout profile
• Add strong visuals and writing samples

Cold Pitching via Email

• Find brands or small businesses you admire
• Use tools like Hunter.io or RocketReach to find emails
• Send personalized, value-packed pitches

Facebook Groups

• Search for “freelance writing jobs” or “remote writing gigs”
• Join active communities that post job leads regularly
• Build relationships and get referrals from other freelancers

Step Six: Dazzle prospects during a discovery call and close the deal

Once you’ve completed all the previous steps, you’re now ready for an interview or discovery call. This is the moment where you and your potential client can meet, answer questions, address objections, and see if you’re a match. Here’s how to make the most of it:

Set the Tone

Start by listening carefully to your client’s needs. This is your opportunity to learn more about their business and goals.

Answer Questions Confidently

Be prepared to explain your process, experience, and how you can help. If the client has concerns about timelines or rates, handle them smoothly by focusing on the value you provide.

Address Objections

If they hesitate about your rates or experience, reassure them by emphasizing your strengths and how you will deliver results that align with their goals.

Assess the Fit

Make sure the client’s needs align with your expertise and capacity. If it feels like a good fit, proceed to the next step. If not, don’t be afraid to walk away.

Close the Deal

Once you’ve set expectations, agreed on rates, and discussed deliverables, send over a contract. Make sure it includes all key terms: scope of work, payment terms, and deadlines.

Seal the Agreement

Once the contract is signed, you’re ready to get started. Confirm the details, and kick off the project with clear communication and a shared understanding of what’s to come.

Frequently asked questions 

Let me answer common questions I receive from my friends and family, asking what I do and how I started it. I hope this helps you to answer some of your lingering questions, too.

1. How to become a freelance writer and get paid?

Follow the steps I laid out, and you will probably have an easier time. I started with no guidance and figured out everything on my own, and I wished I had a detailed guide, especially as a Filipino freelance writer, where this kind of career is just starting to be the norm. 

2. Can I start freelance writing with no experience?

Absolutely! I started with my experience from research writing in college and creating modules during my time as a college instructor. You can definitely use what skills you have now as you start your freelance writing career. What’s most important is that you’re willing to learn, coachable, and committed to improving your skills.

3. Does freelance writing pay well?

Your rates will grow as your skills and experience do. I started way below average, but fast forward to now, and I’m earning three times what I used to. So yes, the money is there. You just have to build up to it and know your worth.

4. How can I set my rates?

Start by looking at your experience and skills, then consider what kind of writing you’re doing. Rates vary depending on the niche, your turnaround time, and your writing quality. You can charge per word, per hour, per project, or even go the retainer route.

Final Tips To Successfully Start Your Freelance Writing Career

Start with what you already have. Your existing skill set, experience, and natural writing talent are your greatest assets and the fastest way to break into freelance writing. Don’t wait to “learn everything” before you start, but focus on delivering writing services to clients who need exactly what you can offer right now.

I hope this guide has given you the clarity, confidence, and courage to finally begin your freelance writing journey. If I were able to start with zero guidance, I know you can do this too, with far fewer detours than I had to take.