Raise rates when demand tells you to: you are booked out, brands say yes too fast, your engagement or audience grew or you keep feeling underpaid after delivering. Bump new clients first, usually 15 to 30 percent, and grandfather a couple of favorites for a cycle so you keep the relationships. You will lose the bargain hunters and keep the brands that value the work. The clearest signal of all, if nobody ever flinches at your rate, it is too low.
Let demand set the timing
Booked out or quick yeses mean you are underpriced. Raise before you resent the work.
Bump new clients first
Apply the new rate to incoming deals, grandfather a couple of favorites briefly.
Move in real steps
15 to 30 percent at a time. Tiny bumps are not worth the awkward conversation.
No pushback means too low
If every brand says yes instantly, your rate has room to climb.