Tools Buy Back Your Time Calculator
Is outsourcing this chore worth your money?
Compare the weekly cost of outsourcing a chore with your time value, dislike of the task and annual hours reclaimed.
Your result
- Annual hours reclaimed
- Cost per hour reclaimed
- Personal time value per hour
How this tool works
Your hourly time value is net household income ÷ (weekly work hours × 52). Outsourcing is recommended when cost per hour reclaimed is strictly below 75% of that value, or when you hate the task (rating 3). The 75% threshold is a planning heuristic, not a scientific cutoff. Hating a task can justify reclaiming time even when the cost is higher, but check your budget. Free time is not guaranteed income. For multiple earners, use their combined weekly work hours.
Common questions
What does my personal time value mean?
It is your annual net household income divided by annual work hours. It is a comparison point, not a promise that each free hour can earn that much.
Why recommend outsourcing a task I hate?
A dislike rating of 3 overrides the cost threshold because relief can matter beyond earnings. Check affordability and choose how to use the time before committing.
How many hours will I get back each year?
The calculator multiplies weekly task hours by 52. Coordination, travel or seasonal changes may reduce the time you actually reclaim.
Sources
- American Time Use Survey, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
- Buying time promotes happiness, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
This tool is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not financial, tax, or legal advice. Consult a qualified professional for guidance specific to your situation.