Before I became a freelance writer, nobody ever asked about my income. Likewise, I didn’t dare pry into someone else’s personal business and ask about their salary. But for some odd reason, that changed once I became a freelancer.

I’ve been a freelancer for more than five years, and during this time, I’ve had a handful of people ask about my pay. I’m not bothered by questions such as: what’s your hourly rate, or how much do freelancers charge? But when someone has the audacity to ask, how much do you make a month? - I have to draw the line.

The first thought that pops into my head, “that’s none of your business.” And the second thought, “how much do you make a month?” (this question always stops them in their tracks). But, I’m not a rude person, and since the people who ask these questions don’t mean to be rude, I’ll usually shrug my shoulder and say, “I do alright.” That’s all they need to know.

But it doesn’t stop here, freelancers across the net are more than eager to disclose their monthly earnings. A couple of months ago Freelance Writing Gigs raised an interesting question about money: To Disclose or Not To Disclose, in which the author asked whether it’s proper to discuss income in the blogosphere.

Motives vary, and I realize that most freelancers reveal their earning with the best intentions. It’s their way of encouraging other freelancers. I’ll admit, knowing the monthly earnings of more experienced freelancers pushed me forward and gave me the confidence to look for better paying opportunities. However, I didn’t ask for this information.

Don’t get me wrong, the information was helpful. But, it was also volunteered. Money is a touchy topic, and overstepping boundaries can result in embarrassment or hurt feelings.

As regards to personal or “none of your business” questions, some people aren’t as polite.

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