Fee and retainer calculator
Estimate fees from billable hours, an hourly rate, expenses, VAT, and a retainer already paid.
Try a worked example
Try a worked example
Estimate fees from billable hours, an hourly rate, expenses, VAT, and a retainer already paid.
Check the units and options, then use the tool’s calculation button. The example is fictitious; replace its values for your own calculation.
Illustration only. Supply the applicable rates and assumptions yourself; this is not financial, tax or legal advice.
Example input
- Billable hours
- 5
- Hourly rate (before VAT)
- 180
- Expenses (before VAT)
- 0
- VAT rate (%)
- 20
- Amount already paid (VAT included, if charged)
- 300
- Currency
- EUR €
Expected output
Fees before VAT: €900.00 VAT: €180.00 Estimated total: €1,080.00 Retainer paid: €300.00 Estimated balance: €780.00
Adds time-based fees and expenses, applies the entered VAT rate, and subtracts the amount already paid from the VAT-inclusive estimate.
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Method and limits
The result depends on the values entered and the method shown. Check the assumptions, rates, or rules that apply to your situation before using it. Illustrative result only. Verify the rules and assumptions that apply to your work.
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Quick answer
Adds time-based fees and expenses, applies the entered VAT rate, and subtracts the amount already paid from the VAT-inclusive estimate.
The page code is downloaded when you open it; values are handled in your browser.
Limits of the result
The result depends on the values entered and the method shown. Check the assumptions, rates, or rules that apply to your situation before using it. Illustrative result only. Verify the rules and assumptions that apply to your work.
Frequently asked questions
What does the calculation include?
It adds time fees and expenses, applies the entered VAT rate, then subtracts the amount already paid from the VAT-inclusive total. The example is 5 × 180 net = 900 net, plus 180 VAT, less 300 already paid: an estimated balance of 780. Enter the amount actually received, including VAT if charged. This applies one rate to fees and expenses; check the fee agreement and how each expense is treated.
Which values should I enter?
Estimate fees from billable hours, an hourly rate, expenses, VAT, and a retainer already paid. Use consistent amounts, units, and time periods.
Is the result definitive?
No. Check the assumptions and rules that apply to your situation; this is an illustrative calculation, not professional advice.
Sources and references
These references describe the cited context and rules; some apply only in the jurisdiction named in their title. They do not validate this illustrative calculation.