Freelance software/SQL developer?

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This was suggested to me by a guy on another forum where I was complaining about my business failures. He said I should teach myself SQL (query language for Oracle databases) and then find a job. He says it doesn't matter that I won't have a university degree in computer science. I PM'ed him and told him that I'm autistic and keep weird hours and thus would need to work from home, but he hasn't answered yet (he hasn't logged on today). So I thought I would ask here. Any aspies do freelance software development from home, or do SQL development on a contract basis? What's the market like? I know there's a mini-boom in high tech right now, I've heard that they'll only hire foreigners though and bring them over on H1B visas because Americans want too much money. I don't care, whatever they'll pay I'll take.

I have done freelance programming. I would suggest learning accounting and tax law as this will affect what your charge. Although many of the major companies look for foreign workers and H1Bs only, some of the midsize and smaller companies have gotten burned and hence will pay the going rate for American programmers.

If you are freelance, it is the work you have done and can do that matters, not the degree you have. Also, most programmers go for $40 - $60/hr as freelance. I would suggest starting at the low range or maybe at $35/hour until you get some work done and have a portfolio.

Finally, you still will need to buy health insurance on the open market and that is very hard for autistics.