If you’re stepping into the freelance world, chances are you’ve come across two buzzwords repeatedly: freelance writing and copywriting. While both involve the written word, they’re not the same. More importantly, they can lead to vastly different types of work, client expectations, income levels, and even tax responsibilities.
So — which one’s the better fit for you?
Let’s break it all down so you can make a confident decision about your freelance future (and understand what it means financially and legally when tax season rolls around).
What Is Freelance Writing?
Freelance writing typically refers to writing content that educates, informs, or entertains. This includes:
- Blog posts
- Magazine articles
- eBooks
- Journalism
- Content marketing
Freelance writers often get hired to contribute to digital content strategies or long-form publications. Your job is to build trust, add value, and often boost SEO for a brand.
Reference: The Freelance Writing Guide
Check out our guide on freelance writer side hustles here
What Is Copywriting?
Copywriting is persuasive writing designed to sell, convert, or prompt action. This includes:
- Sales pages
- Product descriptions
- Email marketing
- Social media ads
- Landing pages
The goal? Conversions.
If you’re a copywriter, your success is often measured by how well you drive leads, purchases, or clicks. Many brands are willing to pay more for strong conversion rates — and the pressure is higher.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | Freelance Writing | Copywriting |
| Purpose | Inform/Educate | Sell/Convert |
| Tone | Informative, friendly | Persuasive, urgent |
| Typical Projects | Blogs, articles, guides | Ads, sales pages, email |
| Client Expectation | Research-based, SEO-focused | ROI-focused, brand voice |
| Income Potential | Moderate (volume-based) | High (value-based) |
Compare freelance income types
Income Potential: Who Earns More?
Copywriters often earn more per project because businesses directly link copy to revenue. A great sales page can generate thousands of dollars — so a $1,000 copywriting project makes sense.
Meanwhile, freelance writers may earn less per piece but can make a solid income through consistent blog contributions or bulk content packages.
Reference: Copyhackers freelance copywriting rates
Taxes: What’s the Impact for Freelance Writers vs. Copywriters?
Both freelance writers and copywriters are treated as independent contractors by the IRS. That means:
- You must report all income
- You need to track and deduct expenses
- You may owe quarterly estimated taxes
- You’ll file a Schedule C with your Form 1040
Whether you write blogs or persuasive copy, you can deduct tools like:
- Grammarly, Jasper AI, Google Workspace
- Website hosting
- Marketing and education courses
Reference: IRS Self-Employed Individuals Tax Center
How to file taxes as a freelancer for the first time
Work Style: Which Suits You?
Freelance writers often enjoy deep research and creativity. They’re storytellers and educators.
Copywriters thrive on psychology, persuasion, and fast testing. They often work closely with marketers and designers.
Choose freelance writing if you:
- Love long-form content
- Enjoy research & storytelling
- Prefer flexible deadlines
Choose copywriting if you:
- Love sales strategy & persuasion
- Enjoy metrics and testing
- Can handle deadline pressure
Client Types: Who Will You Work With?
Freelance Writers
- Content agencies
- Startups
- Publishers
- SEO firms
Copywriters
- Marketing agencies
- eCommerce brands
- B2B SaaS companies
- Direct-to-consumer startups
Pros & Cons of Each Path
Freelance Writing
Pros
- Lower pressure
- Easier entry-level gigs
- Fewer deliverables per page
Cons
- Lower rates per article
- Fewer long-term contracts
- SEO & formatting requirements
Copywriting
Pros
- Higher earnings per word
- Greater value to clients
- More retainer opportunities
Cons
- High expectations
- More performance pressure
- Complex client revisions
Can You Do Both?
Absolutely. Many successful freelancers use content writing to build a portfolio and gradually offer copywriting services.
Pro Tip: Upskill with copywriting courses and use your blog writing experience as proof of your voice, tone, and value.
Final Verdict: What’s the Better Fit?
There’s no one-size-fits-all. Ask yourself:
- Do I enjoy teaching and explaining? ➔ Freelance Writing
- Do I enjoy selling and persuading? ➔ Copywriting
- Do I want to earn more quickly? ➔ Copywriting
- Do I want to build a writing career slowly and steadily? ➔ Freelance Writing
Both paths offer freedom, flexibility, and income potential — but your personal goals and style will determine your ideal match.
Bringing It All Together
Freelance writing and copywriting both have their perks, challenges, and financial implications. As a freelancer, your time is money — and the writing style you choose affects not only how you earn it, but how you manage it come tax season.
Take an honest look at your interests, strengths, and goals — and don’t be afraid to explore both. The best freelancers know how to pivot, adapt, and leverage each type of writing to grow their business and brand.