How to become a freelance developer? How to set up a freelance IT developer? What is the best status for a programmer? Can we go freelance as a self-employed person?

The IT developer works with his clients for the creation and development of software, applications, or internet platforms:

  • it analyzes user needs,
  • he intervenes in the drafting of the specifications,
  • he codes/programs using various computer languages,
  • he tests and corrects,
  • he writes a user guide,
  • it ensures the maintenance and the evolutions of the software,
  • it possibly trains future users in the use of new IT tools.

The profession of freelance IT developers is changing rapidly due to technological developments and the digitization of the economy. The business potential is enormous, but the sector is highly competitive.

BECOMING A FREELANCE DEVELOPER: WHICH IS THE COMPETENT FORMALITIES CENTER?

Freelance computer developer is an unregulated liberal profession. The competent business formalities center is, therefore, that of URSSAF.

However, if the activity includes a software-hardware repair or disassembly-reassembly of computer equipment, then the competent CFE will be that of the Chamber of Trades and Crafts. Note, in this case, that it is no longer compulsory to complete the mandatory installation preparation course. The entrepreneur will be a craftsman.

THE DIPLOMAS AND QUALITIES NECESSARY TO SET UP A FREELANCE DEVELOPER OR PROGRAMMER.

In many countries, the profession of freelance developers or analyst-programmer is not regulated. In theory, therefore, one can practice without a diploma. However, the activity requires very precise knowledge: most professionals have a certificate or training in computer science (Bac +2 to Bac +6), as well as solid experience. SEO Company in Lahore provides best-wed development services.

It will be good to position yourself in a particular area of ​​expertise, to develop a competitive advantage and reassure customers:

  • web development, for example, WordPress,
  • development-integration of internet-intranet solutions,
  • software development in a specific language,
  • development of Ios or Android applications / mobile solutions,
  • video game design and development,
  • integration of information systems,
  • algorithm and program engineering,
  • or even cyber-security.

Beyond technical knowledge, setting up a freelance developer requires essential qualities:

  • The ability to work in a team,
  • mastery of project management,
  • capacity for analysis and advice,
  • Sense of hearing,
  • intuitive approach,
  • ability to estimate and meet deadlines,
  • ability to communicate clearly,
  • English proficiency,
  • writing skills.

The professional developer will also have to master the basics of management, even if he is in a micro-business / auto-business.

WHAT LEGAL STATUS TO SET UP AS A FREELANCE DEVELOPER?

A developer programmer working alone can consider the following legal statuses:

  • The micro-enterprise (this is the former auto-entrepreneur regime): it is a very simple status, possible for a start-up. The characteristics of the self-employed status are as follows:
    • no real accounting (no accountant),
    • obligation to establish a follow-up of the receipts on a notebook or a computer document,
    • duty to have a bank account separate from the personal statement,
    • turnover ceiling not to be exceeded: $ 70,000 per year,
  • The sole proprietorship in its name (EI): it is a suitable status but not recommended because of the terms of payment of social security contributions for the self-employed (ex-RSI); Indeed, the latter being calculated on profits, they are likely to vary greatly from one year to another,
  • The EIRL: the option for limited liability is unnecessary for this type of activity,
  • The Sarl (SARL single partner): it is status well suited for developing business. The entrepreneur sets his remuneration, which serves as the basis for calculating social contributions. The latter is paid to Social Security for the self-employed (ex-RSI),
  • The SASU: this legal regime can be interesting to prevent Social Security for Independents (e.g., ROI) because the leader is assimilated-employee.

Finally, the alternative status of entrepreneur-employee in an activity and employment cooperative can be considered (click on the previous link to find out more).

CREATE YOUR BUSINESS DIRECTLY ONLINE.

WikiCréa has selected Legalstart for your online business creation formalities. Why Legalstart? Quite simply because it is the most complete and cheapest offer on the market. Click here to find out more and get started online.

GETTING STARTED AS A FREELANCE DEVELOPER: THE STEPS.

Here are the steps to set up as an independent developer:

  • Complete your knowledge and training,
  • Conduct market research to approach your future customers,
  • Write a financial plan (click to access our Excel template): list your start-up needs,
  • Choose your legal status and register (URSSAF),
  • Launch your communication,
  • Find your customers—for example, register, for instance, on Toutunservice.fr, the professional classifieds site of WikiCréa. Or by registering on networking platforms like Malt.fr (ex Homework).

RATES AND SALARIES FOR IT DEVELOPERS.

The daily rate for a freelance developer is between $ 200 and $ 500, depending on the complexity of the project and the level of skills required.

A developer who works on average 15 days per month at a rate of 300 $ would therefore achieve a turnover of 4,550 $ monthly. Amount from which fixed charges (insurance, travel, catering, equipment, supplies, etc.), as well as social contributions, must be deducted. In the end, the remuneration can be between $ 2,200 and $ 2,600 per month.

EXCEL TOOLS TO RUN YOUR SMALL BUSINESS (FREE).

These are free Excel tools to manage your liberal business:

  • an Excel financial plan template,
  • a biller to establish quotes and invoices: click here to access it,
  • a recipe book, compulsory for self-employed entrepreneurs: click here to access it,
  • a cash flow monitoring template: click here to access it.