I need to send a letter to my clients to inform them that my cleaning rates are going up. Here is what I have?

come up with. Please tell me what you think and if I should add or delete anything. Thanks for your input.
Dear (Clients name),
I am writing you to first say you are a valued client. Effective immediately my rates for services are changing to (Xamonunt of dollars) per hour. I hope to continue services to you, and look forward to your next call. Sincerely...(my name)

Ok so how's that sound...I need some input. THANKS I GIVE POINTS

Well Steph I considered that but figured they know this already.

Give a reason for the increase.

Dear (Clients name),
You are a most valued client and I hope you share my feeling that ours is a great working partnership. After an in-depth study of our ongoing financial obligations, I have made the painful decision to ask our client partners to share in increased costs so that we can continue to provide top-notch services. Beginning with our next scheduled service visit, our rates for services will increase to (Xamonunt of dollars) per hour. I'm confident that you'll understand the need for this adjustment, and I look forward to a long term relationship with you. Sincerely...(my name)

Try this on for size. - Stuart

Don't forget to blame it on gas prices like everybody else...it's the truth right?

I would give some justification -

Prevailing area rates. . . competitive services. . . rising fuel and materials cost. . . something.

I would also say "as of March 1st' instead of 'effective immediately' - it just sounds more businesslike and less crazy desperate.

I hope that helps - that sort of gentle touch would have kept me with my last cleaning service - when they raised their rates, I left them. Not because of the increase, but because of the nasty and abrupt tone.