Side income after the cut
The kerf in your side rate
Headline pay is what the customer sees. Your real figure is what remains after fees, admin and tax.
A rate looks generous until the cut is measured. The kerf is everything that leaves before money is yours to keep.
Typical strips
- Platform or payment fees.
- Unpaid messages, quotes and revisions.
- Tools, materials and transport.
- A share set aside for tax.
| Item | Illustrative example |
|---|---|
| Quoted job | 200 |
| Fees | −18 |
| Materials | −22 |
| Tax set-aside | −30 |
| Remains | 130 |
| Hours including admin | 8 |
| Real hourly | 16.25 |
If that hourly is below your minimum, the kerf was too wide for that job.
Educational content only. Not financial, tax or legal advice; talk to a qualified professional about your situation.