Our standard hourly rate is $120, billed in 15 minute increments. For on-site work, there is a 1 hour minimum per visit. There is no charge for travel within Loop 1604. We do charge for travel to areas outside those boundries at half our hourly rate ($60/hr) for up to an hour. Travel beyond those areas or overnight should be negotiated in advance.
What do we consider billable time?
It’s pretty simple...if we’re actively engaged in activities serving you that require our knowledge, time, & expertise then common sense says that it’s billable time. Time spent consulting with you on hardware, software, or networking decisions is billable time. Meeting with you at your home, office, the Apple Store, walking your new facility, or speaking to vendors on your behalf is considered billable time. Installing, maintaining, or repairing your system(s) is billable time.
Ok, so what ISN’T billable time?
Well, it wouldn’t be fair to bill you for simply dreaming about your mac...no matter how pretty it is. In fact, if that happens it’s probably best left unsaid. A little common sense goes a long way here as well...if we need to take a break because we’re hungry, need to use the restroom, or our eyes begin to cross then we promise not to bill you for that time. On very rare occasions it might be necessary to take a call from another customer while we’re with you. Sometimes emergencies happen and we like to think you’d want us to answer your call should such an emergency ever arise. In any case, you will never be billed for the time we’re on the phone.
What about emails, phone calls, & that really creepy remote support?
Answering emails is ALMOST always free. It’s a great way to get your questions answered for non-emergencies. Having said that, an email asking us for detailed, step-by-step instructions (with photos) of how to re-install your server operating system and setup DNS.....well, I think we get it. Phone calls under 5 minutes are also FREE. Yay free stuff! As for lengthier calls where we actually accomplish something together...time will be billed in 15 minute increments. Pretty much the same applies to the “really creepy remote support” where you allow me access to your computer remotely and I fix your problem without either of us having to put our shoes on.
Bottom line...
We like to think that there are good people left in the world and we’re happy to meet at least one or two of them everyday. Do unto others...be nice to us, we’ll be nice to you. We have a lot of pride in doing what we do and we’re in it for the long haul. We want you to call us when you need us. We want you to recommend us to your friends & family. We want a long term relationship and therefore we promise to always be fair when it comes to the bill. We hope that you’ll recognize this and should you ever feel otherwise, please let us know.
Sold!! So how do I pay you?
For new customers, we ask that you pay by cash or check at the time of service. While we don’t officially accept credit cards, payments can be made through PayPal if needed. For established business customers, we’ll be happy to negotiate terms with you...just ask!
