How Much to Charge
Some people believe we should offer our services free of charge — and if you’re one of them, I present a very strong argument against that option.
Tarot readers are vocational workers. We either fall under the spell of the intrigue of divination, or we’re compelled to be of service. Whichever path we come from, the outcome is the same: we spend hours, days, months — sometimes years — absorbed by a path that is equally rewarding and challenging.
It’s a lonely journey for many, unless they’re lucky enough to learn as part of a development circle, enrol on a physical course (yes, that’s right — with real people!), or start an e-course with a friend. All of this costs money. And once we’ve gained enough experience and are fluent in the language of tarot, we end up giving away the most precious asset of all — our time.
I’ve yet to meet a sensible person who works for free and hopes the fairies will settle their bills.
Why We Should Charge
It is right, just, and reasonable that we charge for our time. We are using a skill that has taken great investment — in hours, in finances, in personal growth. Even if you’ve trained yourself, you’ll still have had to purchase tools, books, and decks.
This isn’t an argument where I ever concede defeat. Most of us already give plenty of time away — that one little follow-up email to a client, helping someone with an urgent matter, returning a call for a quick chat… so it’s unreasonable to expect us to also offer full readings for free.
I agree that beginners shouldn’t charge until they can read fluently. But even then, if you’ve done lots of free readings, it can be hard to shift the relationship into a paid one. So keep those to a minimum or practise with a trusted friend and trade “reading for reading.”
So, How Much Should You Charge?
If you’re working the psychic circuit at fairs or events, you’ll need to cover your table cost — but so will all the other readers. It’s respectful to charge a similar rate.
Always ask the event organiser what the going rate is. Don’t ask other readers unless you know them well. Focus on your own space, your own energy, and your own connections. Worrying about other people’s pricing is a distraction you don’t need.
As a rough guide, in the South West, we typically charge around £25 for 30 minutes, or £50 for a full hour. When I moved from the South East, I was shocked at the drop — but it’s fairly consistent across the country. Your organiser will advise you. I usually recommend bringing two printed pricing options to a fair and choosing based on the day.
Private Readings at Home
If you’re working from a home office or reading room, you’ll need to set an hourly rate that reflects your experience and reputation. Clients will only pay what they feel you’re worth — which is why it’s a good idea to start at fairs and build up referrals and trust from there.
I know readers who charge anything from £30 to £120 per hour for home-based readings. These tend to last around an hour, sometimes longer, and often include more than one reading within the session.
Personally, I don’t recommend home working until you’re established — it’s better to build a client base externally first. But once you do, have a look at what local readers are charging and price accordingly. Zoom and phone readings tend to be priced similarly to in-person sessions. Email readings are usually a bit less — again, it comes down to time.
Working From Other Venues
If you find a hairdresser, beauty salon, crystal shop, or new age store that will host you for a day or two each week — treasure it. It’s a lovely way to build your client base without the pressure of setting up a home studio.
You’ll either pay them a room hire fee, or they’ll take a percentage of your bookings (especially if they handle all the appointments and payments). Every venue has its own system. But it’s a brilliant way to work professionally without the overheads of running your own space.
A Few Final Thoughts
Whatever path you choose, charge a reasonable rate that reflects local prices. If you offer an accurate, compassionate tarot consultation, your diary will fill up. I always believe a business should be busy rather than exclusive — though of course, that might not be your strategy. And I doubt it applies to the international tarot readers working for the rich and famous!
Speaking of which… we’ve all seen high-profile psychics and their jaw-dropping prices. You’d think they’re making an absolute fortune. But let me pour a bit of reality on that.
High-profile readers have high-profile costs. Venues don’t come cheap. Marketing is often the highest cost of all — leaflets, local newspapers, magazine ads, Facebook campaigns… and then staff: front of house, catering, cleaning, equipment.
And let’s not forget the pressure and focus that comes with visibility. I always remember my amazing grandmother saying, “The higher they climb, the harder they fall.” I’m not saying don’t have ambition — it’s a wonderful thing. But always keep one foot firmly on the ground.