Becoming a .NET Contractor

What is .Net?

Made by Microsoft, .NET is a cross-platform, open source developer platform used to build various types of applications.

With .NET you can use multiple languages, such as C# and F# and platforms, such as .NET Core, .NET Framework and Xamarin/Mono.

It’s used for building:

• Web apps and services
• Mobile apps
• Desktop apps
• Games
• Cloud services.

.NET contractor rates of pay

As .NET can be used for building applications in so many different areas, it’s easy to see why these skills are growing in demand, with .NET developer and .NET web developer currently the most sought-after roles.

As a contractor working in this field, you’ll need to ensure that you are constantly keeping yourself up-to-date with the platform, especially if you wish to command higher rates of pay.

When it comes to setting your hourly or daily rates, you’ll need to do your research, looking into what other contractors charge for similar skills. As an example, currently (2023) the median daily rate for a .NET developer in the UK is £500.

Take a look at our Contractor take home pay calculator to get an idea of how much you could take home either working through a limited company or under an umbrella.

Benefits of becoming a .NET contractor

There are so many benefits to becoming a contractor, with rates of pay and flexibility usually the top reasons cited for people joining the self-employed sector.

When it comes to the financial benefits, this is largely driven by the fact that a contractor’s rates of pay are often much higher compared to their permanent counterparts.

Contractors are also able to take advantage of claiming back on expenses made for the running of their business, which will in turn reduce their tax bill at the end of each year.

For more information on expenses, read our Sole Trader Expenses and Subsistence Expenses pages.

With so many people now prioritising a better work/life balance, working for yourself is perfect for giving you more freedom and flexibility compared to an employee – you’ll be able to choose the clients you want to work with, as well as picking the hours and days that you want to work.

For more information on what you can gain from self-employment, read our Benefits of Contracting page.

Our team of experts are available to answer any queries you may have, so drop us a line on 01442 795 100, email jaime.thorpe@dolanaccountancy.com, or contact us via live chat.