Second, my last lesson fee increase was just over a year ago, but I find myself falling behind again, unfortunately. With Ontario’s upcoming increase to the minimum wage, I have no choice but to try to keep up. I’d like to be transparent about what I earn and my reasons for increasing my lesson fees, so here is a breakdown of the numbers:
 

• What I earn currently - $14.90/hr (after my Cafetalk margin rate and YEN to CAD conversion rate are applied)
• Current minimum wage in Ontario, Canada - $15.50/hr
• New minimum wage in Ontario, Canada - $16.55/hr
• What I will earn after this lesson fee increase - $16.40/hr

To achieve this increase, most lessons will go up by about 10% (e.g. a 2000-point lesson will be 2200 points). This increase will take effect on July 1st.
 

If this increase affects your ability to afford lessons, please contact me and let’s see if we can figure something out. I want lessons to be as affordable and accessible as possible while still maintaining my own standard of living. You can also book in advance to secure the current, lower price. In addition, when the increase takes effect, I will publish some coupons to help offset the increase for the month of July.
 

“But Zach, you have a master’s degree! Why are you even working on Cafetalk for minimum wage?” Great question! The short answer is quality of life. It’s convenient to work online, my schedule is flexible, and I consider it a privilege to work one-to-one with interesting and enthusiastic adult students. I’ve met a lot of great people on Cafetalk and I genuinely enjoy working with you all to improve your English! In all honesty, I can’t continue this forever, but for the time being, I’m enjoying my work and my life =)
 

That’s all for now! Take care and I hope you have a great June!
 

Zach