Why Most VAs Wait Too Long to Raise Their Rates

At some point in your VA career, you will reach the moment where your current rate no longer reflects what you are worth or what you need to build a sustainable business. The idea of raising rates makes most VAs anxious. But clients who value your work expect that your rates will increase over time. The way you communicate the change matters far more than the change itself.

When You Are Ready to Raise Your Rates

A few signals that it is time: you have been at the same rate for 12 months or more, you have added significant skills or specialist knowledge since you started with this client, you are fully booked and turning away new clients at your current rate, your rate is meaningfully below what comparable VAs in your niche charge, or your quality of work has improved substantially and the client knows it.

How Much to Raise

A reasonable rate increase for an established client relationship is 10% to 20% annually. If you have significantly under-priced yourself from the start, a larger correction may be needed, but it is usually better to do this in stages rather than a single large jump. Frame your rate increase relative to market rates if possible.

How to Communicate a Rate Increase

The message should be direct, confident, and warm. Do not apologise for it. Include gratitude for the working relationship, a clear statement of your new rate, the effective date giving at least 30 days notice, and a brief reference to the value or growth that justifies the increase.

Example: "Hi [Name], I really enjoy our work together and I'm proud of what we have built. I am writing to let you know that I will be adjusting my rate to $[new rate] per hour effective [date 30 days away]. This reflects my expanded skill set and current market rates for [your niche] VAs. I wanted to give you plenty of notice and I am happy to answer any questions. I am looking forward to continuing our work together."

What to Do If a Client Pushes Back

"That is too much of an increase." Acknowledge their concern and hold the rate: "I understand it is an adjustment. My new rate reflects both the quality of work I deliver and current market rates for this type of support. I hope we can continue working together at the new rate."

"We will need to look at other options." The honest reply: "I completely understand. If you decide to move in a different direction, I am happy to help with a smooth handover." Most clients who have a working relationship with a reliable VA do not actually leave over a reasonable rate increase.

Raising Rates for New Clients

It is much simpler to charge your new, higher rate with new clients than to raise rates with existing ones. Make a habit of reviewing your base rate every six months and updating your Delegatoo profile accordingly. On Delegatoo, you set your own rate with full control over your pricing and no platform-imposed limits. When you raise your rate, 100% of the increase goes to you.