One of the biggest challenges for new virtual assistants is knowing how to price their services. Set your rates too low, and you may struggle financially or attract clients who don’t value your work. Set them too high without the right positioning, and you might struggle to land your first few jobs.
In this article, we’ll break down the smart way to set your rates — one that balances your skills, market standards, and business goals — so you can grow a sustainable career as a virtual assistant.
Why It’s Important to Get This Right
Your pricing affects everything in your business — how you’re perceived, who you attract, and how profitable your work becomes. It’s not just about money — it’s about the value you provide and the lifestyle you want to build.
That said, let’s walk through the key steps to pricing your services effectively.
1. Understand the Different Ways to Charge
There are three main pricing structures for virtual assistants:
a. Hourly Rate
You’re paid based on the number of hours worked.
Best for: New VAs, short-term work, or flexible projects.
Pros: Easy to track.
Cons: Income is limited by your available hours.
b. Package Pricing
You charge a flat rate for a set of services (e.g., “Inbox Management – $200/month”).
Best for: Recurring services with clear deliverables.
Pros: You’re paid based on value, not time.
Cons: You must estimate time carefully.
c. Retainer Model
A client pays a flat fee each month for a set number of hours or tasks.
Best for: Long-term clients.
Pros: Predictable income.
Cons: You must track time and scope carefully.
2. Know the Market Rates
Understanding the going rates for virtual assistants in your region and niche helps you set competitive — yet fair — prices.
General ranges (as of 2024):
- Beginner VAs: $10–$25/hour
- Intermediate VAs: $25–$50/hour
- Specialized VAs (tech, marketing, design): $40–$75+/hour
Research on platforms like Upwork, LinkedIn, or VA Facebook groups to see what others are charging for similar work.
3. Assess Your Experience and Skill Level
The more experience, speed, or specialization you offer, the more you can charge.
Ask yourself:
- Do I offer general admin or a niche skill (like Pinterest marketing)?
- Do I work faster than most?
- Do I deliver exceptional client communication and organization?
You don’t need years of experience to charge fairly — but you must be honest about your value today and raise prices as you grow.
4. Calculate Your Monthly Income Goal
Set your ideal monthly income. Then calculate how many clients or hours you need to hit it.
Example:
- Your goal: $2,000/month
- You want to work 20 hours/week = 80 hours/month
- $2,000 ÷ 80 = $25/hour
Now you know your minimum hourly rate — but don’t stop there. You still need to consider business expenses and taxes.
5. Include Business Costs and Taxes
As a VA, you’re a freelancer — meaning you pay for tools, software, hardware, and self-employment taxes. Always build these into your rate.
Typical monthly costs:
- Tools (Zoom, Canva, Notion, Grammarly): $20–$100+
- Internet, electricity, office space
- Transaction fees (PayPal, Stripe, etc.)
- Accounting or bookkeeping support
Many VAs add 20–30% to their base rate to account for these overhead costs.
6. Offer Tiered Packages
Instead of one flat offer, give clients options. This lets them choose what fits their budget and gives you more chances to close a sale.
Example: Social Media VA Packages
- Basic: 5 posts/week, 2 platforms – $250/month
- Standard: 10 posts/week, 3 platforms, reports – $450/month
- Premium: All of the above + engagement + design – $700/month
This also allows you to upsell clients as they grow.
7. Avoid Pricing Too Low
Many beginners fall into the trap of charging $5/hour or offering endless free trials. This hurts your confidence and makes it harder to increase prices later.
Low rates attract clients who value cheap work over quality — and who are more likely to micromanage or delay payments.
Start at a rate that reflects your professionalism and your desire to grow. You can always offer an introductory discount, but don’t build your brand on being “the cheapest.”
8. Adjust as You Gain Experience
Your pricing should grow with your business.
When to raise your rates:
- You’ve added new skills or tools.
- You’re fully booked and have a waitlist.
- You’ve consistently delivered great results.
- You’ve been working at the same rate for 6–12 months.
Notify current clients in advance, and give them the option to stay on older pricing for a short time if you wish.
9. Use a Pricing Guide or Rate Sheet
Create a simple document or PDF you can send to potential clients. It should include:
- Your hourly rate
- Package details and pricing
- What’s included in each service
- Contact information and how to book a discovery call
Use Canva or Notion to make it look professional — it adds legitimacy to your offer.
10. Be Confident in Communicating Your Rates
The way you present your pricing matters as much as the number.
Instead of saying:
“I charge $25/hour, is that okay?”
Say:
“My standard hourly rate is $25, and I also offer monthly packages for recurring work. I’d love to talk about what fits your needs best.”
Confidence helps clients see you as a professional, not just a helper.
Final Thoughts: Your Rate Reflects Your Business, Not Just Your Skills
Pricing is one of the most empowering parts of being a virtual assistant — because you get to decide how your work is valued. Start where you are, be fair to yourself, and keep adjusting as you grow.
Remember, you’re not just selling time — you’re selling peace of mind, efficiency, and business results.
Don’t be afraid to charge what you’re worth. The right clients will always pay for quality.