make money writing essays

Get Paid to Write: 13 Sites That Pay Up to $450 per Article

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Paid freelance writing is a lucrative way to get paid to write from home. You don’t need a degree or even the most eloquent prose to have a lucrative side hustle as a freelance writer.

• Side Hustles

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When I started a blog four years ago, I had no idea I could get paid to write about anything. Fast forward three years. Now I get paid to write about things I love, and I make a full-time living doing it.

Freelance writing can be a great way to make money from home. But with any business, there’s a steep learning curve. You have to know what editors want, where to find jobs that are legitimate, and what to charge as you progress.

A Look at the Best Freelance Writing Websites

When you’re building your writing portfolio, there are some freelance writing sites that stand out for offering legitimate jobs and paying writers a living wage. They’re the best freelance writing websites for beginners.

Upwork is a freelancer marketplace and go-to source for business owners looking for all kinds of digital services. You can find hundreds of paid writing jobs in dozens of subjects.

One of the benefits of using Upwork is that you won’t have to chase down payment from clients. All invoices and payments happen through Upwork, and you’re guaranteed payment for the work you do.

The downside is that Upwork charges a 20% fee on your first $500 earned with each client, 10% up to $10,000, and 5% beyond that. It’s a good place to get started, but you won’t want to use it for long.

Known for offering services starting at $5, Fiverr is a marketplace for freelancers to showcase their services to prospective clients. You create a profile, list a “gig,” and then it becomes available to a global audience.

All communication and payments are processed through Fiverr, but it also charges a steep 20% fee on all earnings. If you’re nervous about reaching out to clients yourself, Fiverr can be a good platform where they come to you.

But you’ll have to do something to make yourself stand out in a sea of other writers. That’s where specializing in one subject matter can be your strength.

3. Textbroker

Textbroker only offers content and writing services on its platform. Writers who sign up with Textbroker will find many resources on how to improve their writing, including editors to review articles, writing tutorials, and videos on how to get the most out of Textbroker.

Earnings per word depend on your quality level. You can earn from $0.07 per word up to $0.50. You choose from thousands of orders available based on your quality level, and there are no additional fees. Textbroker also offers milestone and quarterly bonuses when you achieve different word counts.

Writers, designers, videographers, and other creatives can all find jobs on Skyword . Skyword is a marketplace where you can find jobs and be found by clients. It works with both small and high-profile clients and is a great way to make the jump from lower-paying job sites.

You can’t just sign up for Skyword clients. Fill out a profile and wait until you’re hand-selected for jobs, meaning your profile can sit in Skyword for a long time before you’re submitted to clients or able to view job opportunities. You can increase your chances of being picked by editors by keeping your social media relevant and updated.

5. ClearVoice

ClearVoice connects qualified writers with job opportunities based on the writer’s CV or ClearVoice portfolio. Once you complete your CV, you’ll be able to join ClearVoice’s Talent Network and have your CV sent to prospective clients.

Writers are then handpicked for opportunities based on their CV, so there’s an incentive to create one that stands out. You set your own rates and are paid via PayPal upon assignment approval, so you get the security of going through a marketplace without the fees typically associated with them.

6. Contently

Contently is an online writing agency that connects freelance writers with businesses. Many writers use the site for its free portfolio service, but Contently editors use these portfolios to handpick freelancers for clients.

Many high-profile websites and companies use Contently to source writers, so the jobs pay well. These jobs tend to go to the most experienced candidates, and it can take years for an editor at Contently to refer you to a client. But if you’re patient, Contently can offer lucrative writing opportunities.

Another place experienced freelance writers can find high-paying jobs is on nDash . nDash is a content platform where writers can create a profile and pitch ideas for blogs, articles, and whitepapers to prospective clients.

nDash claims the average writing assignment on its platform pays between $175 to $450. Once an assignment is approved, payment is deposited directly into the writer’s bank account within two to three business days.

It’s a relatively new site so not as many companies are using it, but writers have reported that if you’re willing to pitch more, you’ll make a decent income.

8. SmartBug

SmartBug is a content marketing company specializing in B2B (business to business) marketing and copywriting. Its writers produce content for the web, social media, email, sales pages, and more.

This is a great site for writers who aren’t beginners but may not have the experience or portfolio to compete for jobs with other top writers. There’s no direct way to apply, but you can fill out a general interest application on the website.

9. NewsCred

NewsCred is a community for experienced freelance content creators. In-house editors pair creators with customer programs, but you can also view freelance positions on the platform. Then NewsCred’s editorial team serves as your managing editor for all client work.

You can find high-profile Fortune 500 companies from a variety of industries using NewsCred, the most popular being tech, healthcare, and financial services. There’s currently no button to apply on NewsCred’s website, but you can contact the company via the contact form on its website.

10. The Writer Finder

Growth Machine is an SEO-focused content marketing company with a freelance writing platform called The Writer Finder . Growth Machine works with a variety of clients in AI, travel, wellness, dogs, weddings, and more.

What sets The Writer Finder apart is the Slack group for freelance writers. It lets you communicate with other freelance writers on the team. Rates are competitive, and you’ll also have the chance to learn sought-after SEO skills.

Related: 51 Freelance Jobs Websites with the Best Remote Work Opportunities

Apply for Assignments on the Best Freelance Writing Job Boards

Job boards are easy places for companies to post their jobs. The job board doesn’t vet freelancers, handle payments, or make promises on behalf of clients.

There are some things to be aware of when applying and taking a job from a job board. Because the service is free for writers, you’re competing against thousands of other bloggers for a limited number of jobs.

Job boards are also notorious for phishing scams. “Clients” may ask you to download a zip file of their payment terms or writing guidelines and ask you to invoice them via PayPal. The zip file is actually a keystroke logger allowing them to steal your PayPal credentials. Be careful when applying to jobs on these boards.

11. ProBlogger

The ProBlogger job board is updated daily with blogging and article writing jobs across all subjects.

Businesses have to pay ProBlogger to post their job ad, meaning the writer isn’t paid through ProBlogger. They don’t charge the writer any fees for joining or getting paid.

Another job board filled with many freelance writing opportunities is Indeed . You can find full-time, part-time, and freelance remote writing jobs across all subjects, and because of the vastness of the board, competition isn’t as high compared to others.

You can sign up for job alerts based on your searches. Simply enter your email address and activate emails to see them as soon as they hit the website.

13. MediaBistro

Journalists and anyone else in media will find MediaBistro helpful for finding jobs in the industry. If you’re looking for paid writing jobs in marketing, advertising, television, or news, you can find hundreds of jobs from recognizable names on MediaBistro’s job board.

There are entry-level positions listed, but your best move is to get enough writing experience to make a professional-looking resume before you start applying for jobs on this site.

How to Get Paid to Write (Step by Step) 

Before you apply to get paid for writing, there are a few things you should do to make yourself stand out to potential clients.

1. Choose What to Write About

When you’re writing for money, you might think that only writing about a couple of topics limits your options, but it actually expands them. Sites and companies that pay well don’t want freelancers who write about anything, they want experts in their field. When you stick to a single niche and become known for it, you’ll become a sought-after writer.

Choosing one topic also allows you to scale your business faster. You learn your subject thoroughly, research less, work faster, and can take on more clients. All this leads to being able to earn a higher hourly rate for your work. The key is to pick a profitable niche.

2. Create a Portfolio

There are several ways to create a portfolio. The first is with a blog. Every new writer should have a blog, especially if you don’t have many clips to show potential clients.

Once you choose your niche, write five to ten blog posts on various topics within it. This shows potential clients your writing style, expertise, and gives them a place to contact you.

You can also make money with a blog . One way is to find products and services related to your niche that you like using and see if they have an affiliate program. Then every time someone makes a purchase through your affiliate link, you’ll earn a small commission.

3. Create Profiles on Multiple Sites

Once you’ve written a few articles for other sites or publications, you can create profiles and portfolios on multiple professional freelance writing sites. Clippings.me is a portfolio site for journalists, Contently is used by many web-based content writers, and LinkedIn is a go-to place for businesses looking for expert writers.

Having a presence on a few different sites makes it easier for clients to find you and your work. They may also learn personal facts about you that give you an edge over other writers so don’t underestimate including things like your alma mater, pets, and hobbies.

4. Post on Social Media

Building a social media presence around your niche can also put you ahead for freelance writing jobs. Twitter is most popular for journalists and print publications while Instagram is becoming a popular place for e-commerce businesses to find writers.

You don’t have to make another social media account just for your writing. Post facts, breaking news, advice, and stories related to your niche and tag them with relevant hashtags. It’ll help brands find you, and it can further reinforce to potential clients that you’re knowledgeable and stay current about the topics you write about.

Related: How to Become a Social Media Manager

5. Accept Smaller Jobs While Building Your Reputation

While you’re building your portfolio and expertise in your niche, you’ll have to be willing to accept lower-paid writing jobs. Think of them as practice that you’re getting paid to do. The more organizations, editors, and platforms you work with now, the more you’ll be able to impress high-paying clients in the future.

You can also pitch websites to guest post. You won’t get paid to write guest posts, but you may be able to add links to your blog posts in your article. This will help your posts rank higher in Google, and potential clients may be able to find you through simple Google searches.

Related: How to Get Paid to Write Reviews

 6. Learn to Network

You can start freelance writing on your own, but if you want to build a business and make a living writing, you need a network of other writers. Your network should be filled with writers and editors in your niche who are a little ahead of you and a little behind you in the journey.

Your network can also help you find sources for stories, give you feedback on pitches, advise you on rates to charge, and help you to feel like you’re not alone in this often isolating industry.

Related: How to Make More Money as a Freelance Writer

Resources on How to Get Paid as a Writer

When you’re running your freelance writing business, you’ll want to have some resources to make it easier to write and get paid.

Freelance Writer’s Den

Started by veteran freelance writer Carol Tice, the Freelance Writer’s Den is a membership site just for freelance writers. You have access to over 300 hours of freelance writing education including eCourses, webinars, and podcasts.

There’s also a forum for networking with other writers and a job board with new writing jobs posted every Monday and Thursday, all with a minimum rate of $50 per article.

Membership for the Freelance Writer’s Den only opens twice a year. If you’re interested in joining, sign up for the waitlist to be notified.

Get Paid to Write for Blogs (Course)

This is a course geared towards new freelance writers that was created by Cat Alford (who, coincidentally, has been a freelance writer on DollarSprout in the past).

The course features eight video modules covering beginner-level lessons, including how to create a portfolio that will attract high-value clients. The course also covers everything you need to know about running the business side of things. 

Related: The Best Online Writing Courses for New Freelance Writers

Getting Paid to Write is Possible

You can get paid to write in any field at any level. Like any business, it’s difficult to get started.

However, if you work your way through the many content marketing agencies and job boards, you’ll be able to find steady work and grow your business.

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Get Paid to Write Essays: 21 Great Sites For Making Money

In a rush? Writers Work is a great place for getting paid to write essays. Our guide to the top essay-writing companies from academic to personal essays.

Academic writing can be an excellent way to make money. Students will pay writers to create example research papers or assist them in writing their school essays and papers. Learning how to write a 5 paragraph essay  will open the door to more income potential. There are two primary methods to make money writing essays, and the first is to write academic essays.

Essay writing companies look for writers who can create high-quality English essays and academic-style papers, and you can make a good income as a freelance writer. The second method is to write personal essays and pitch them to online and print magazines. Either way, the income potential is quite good. The key is finding the right essay writing service company to write for so you can avoid any scams; these 18 are a good starting point.

Writers Work contains freelance writing opportunities for writers who want to start their career

1. Writers Work

2. academic writers online, 3. paperhelp, 4. speedypaper, 5. advancedwriters, 6. writing creek, 7. essaypro, 8. iwritessays.com, 9. essayshark, 10. bluecorp, 11. lancerhop, 12. writers lab, 13. dame magazine, 14. the change agent, 15. buzzfeed, 16. narratively, 17. new york times modern love, 18. the smart set, 19. vox first person, 20. practical wanderlust, what are the advantages of getting paid to write essays, what is the best essay writing site.

Writers Work is a popular platform for new freelance writers. It connects writers, including aspiring essayists, with online clientele, enabling you to fulfill tasks and earn income, all from the comfort of your office or library. You’ll need to pay a fee to sign up. Once inside, Writers Work aggregates dozens of writing jobs and opportunities across various niches and magazines. If you want to spend more time writing essays and less time pitching, it’s worth checking out. Read our Writers Work review to learn more. 

Academic Writers Online has a free application process for potential freelancers. This site has a small pool of writers, so you have a better chance of getting quality freelance writing work here. They pay between $9 and $15 per page, and writers are paid on their credit card via wire transfer two times per month. You can also check out our guide on how to get paid to write a blog .

PaperHelp is an academic essay page that takes ghostwriters. You must submit a resume via email, then take a writing test. Understanding MLA and APA formatting is helpful for this page. After the initial test, they then put writers on probation for lower pay, and eventually, you can work your way up the writer ladder if you publish flawless work, opening the door to higher-paid work.

SpeedyPaper is a large essay and paper writing company that provides excellent customer support for its paying customers. To write for them, you will need to email them or use the live chat feature to access the writer application. They pay a minimum of $8 per page, but the pay range varies depending on the length and type of paper.

AdvancedWriters has a large team of writers who write everything from case studies to research papers. They do not advertise their rates or application process, but you can email them directly to get the application. They have a writing test and sample essay process you will need to go through to write for them. You may also be interested in our guide on the best ways to get paid to write poetry .

Writing Creek has a constant workload of academic writing projects. They pay between $4 and $12 a page, depending on experience, via Payoneer or PayPal. You will need proficiency in your area of study and good use of the English language. You will need to take a test and submit a sample essay to write essays for money for this site.

Essaypro offers payment on the 15th of each month and then again on the last day of the month. They don’t use PayPal but Payoneer, so writers must be comfortable with that. Customers will place orders; then, writers bid on those orders. Turning in papers on time and following directions will increase the pay rate.

iWriteEssays advertises itself as a student homework help and essay writing service. Students use an order form to input the instructions and deadline for their paper, and then they get matched to a writer with the correct writing style. As a writer, you’ll interact directly with the student to ensure the final project meets their needs well. You must upload a writing sample and pass a grammar test on writing for them. They don’t publish their writing rates.

EssayShark is a unique essay writing service. They allow freelance writers to register as writers and then bid on writing projects. They have a high work volume, and writers who deliver excellent work can get bonuses, but there can be a lot of competition for available jobs. If you feel like taking on the competition of bidding for jobs, consider registering here.

Bluecorp is a top-notch writing website for essay writers. They are very strict about their formatting, so you will need to know how to make a title page, references page, citations, and similar structural elements of academic papers. They also offer proofreading and editing services for students. Work is paid per page with a range of $3.50 to $9 a page for writers with an undergraduate degree, and all work must be plagiarism free.

LancerHop is a unique site in that it offers both academic writers and writers for web content and general copywriting. They also have review writers. If you are looking for freelance writing jobs that cover a wide range of topics and are interested in adding essay writing to your skillset, apply for LancerHop. You will need to take a writing test for this site. The rate of pay will vary depending on the type of work you do.

Writers Lab offers academic essay and personal essay writing jobs and general article writing. This is a one-stop shop for freelance writers, and they pay between $5 and $26 per page with bonuses if you are very efficient with your work. Writers Lab hires both native English writers and ESL writers for their writing projects.

Dame Magazine takes personal essays on subjects that interest women. The current pay rate is around 13 cents per word, with an average of $350 to $750 per piece. This particular magazine is looking for edgy, unexpected topics. You will have to pitch a topic to the site to get your writing published.

The Change Agent accepts essays on social justice and changes topics. This magazine focuses on adult education, paying $50 for essays between 200 and 1,000 words. However, payment is made in the form of a gift card, not actual money. Also, they only take articles a few times per year, and they will publish a topic to write on.

If you want to write personal and argumentative essays and get a lot of exposure for your work, then Buzzfeed is your site. You can pitch topics on culturally hot topics. They are looking for argumentative essays that connect to culture in some way, and they pay well. The average pay rate is between 13 and 27 cents per word for accepted essays.

If you have a personal story, consider pitching it to Narratively . They are looking for essays with click-bait titles that will gather traffic from social media. All essays for this site need a takeaway, which is a lesson for the reader. Expect between $200 and $300 for accepted essays between 2,000 and 2,500 in length.

The New York Times is a prestigious publication, and you may be able to get a piece posted through the Modern Love column . Your essay will need to cover marriage, dating, and relationships in some way. They also accept parenting articles. The pay is $300 per essay of 1,500 to 1,700 words.

The Smart Set is an established print magazine for the literary world. It is published through Drexel University in Pennsylvania and is regularly on the lookout for personal essays. The rate of pay is 7 cents per word. This magazine prefers long essays between 1,000 and 3,000 words.

Vox First Person takes first-person essays or thoughtful discourses on hot political and cultural topics. You will need to email the First Person Editor to pitch your topic, but you will earn between 19 and 41 cents per word for essays up to 3,000 words.

If you want to become a travel writer and make money on essays, consider writing for Practical Wanderlust . They pay $300 a piece for essays of around 3,000 words and require pitches. You will need an essay that makes people stop and think or laugh, and it must be travel related.

FAQs About Ways to Get Paid to Write Essays

Learning to write essays for pay can help you add to your freelance writing income. You will be able to write on various topics and have steady work. There is a high demand and great flexibility to write for this niche.

EssayPro is considered one of the top essay-writing sites. It pays consistently and has steady work. Customers know they can count on EssayPro to deliver plagiarism-free high-quality work.

To learn more, check out our tips on blogging for writers !

Nicole Harms has been writing professionally since 2006. She specializes in education content and real estate writing but enjoys a wide gamut of topics. Her goal is to connect with the reader in an engaging, but informative way. Her work has been featured on USA Today, and she ghostwrites for many high-profile companies. As a former teacher, she is passionate about both research and grammar, giving her clients the quality they demand in today's online marketing world.

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29 easy ways to make money writing online in 2023

Good news: there are a LOT of different options when it comes to paid online writing. No matter your interests or areas of expertise, if you’re ready to bring in some extra cash, opportunities are waiting for you.

Whether you want to write an occasional article for extra spending money or dedicate your free time to running a blog so you can one day quit your day job and become a freelance writer for hire , we’ll show you 30 easy ways to make money writing online in 2023 and everything you need to know to get paid for your writing skills.

1. Start a blog

Blogging is a tried-and-true method for writers to make money online. You may be wondering if it’s still possible for new bloggers to make money with all the established blogs already online, and the answer is YES.

Blogging requires dedication and consistency, and it will also take some time for your blog to gain momentum before you see much income, but it is absolutely possible.

The first step to starting a blog is picking your niche. This is the topic you’ll write about. It’s good to get specific here; there are many blogs on the internet, so if you can provide a unique perspective, your readers are more likely to stick around.

Next, you’ll need to pick your domain, design your blog, and get it all set up. There are a ton of great resources out there to help you with this (just remember you get what you pay for: while there are free blog hosting sites and free templates, top bloggers agree that you’ll need to spend a little money upfront if you want to make money writing in the long run).

Once you’ve got your blog established, remember to post regularly, promote your posts on social media, and engage with your readers. No blog has ever been an overnight success, but you can make good money from blogging with a little time and consistency.

2. Create blog posts (for others)

If you’re not quite ready to start your own blog, you can always dip your toes in the water by guest blogging. Many bloggers hire other bloggers to create content, and a lot of companies will hire freelance writers to contribute to the blog section of their website.

If you decide to go this route, make sure to do your research beforehand. Familiarize yourself with the blog you’re writing for, so you can match the tone and blend in with the existing content.

Bloggers who publish daily get 57% better results than those who publish multiple times per week. - Semrush

3. Establish a niche website

If you have an interest or expertise in a particular niche, you can start a website dedicated to it. This gives you all the creative control of running your own blog without the pressure of regular posting. (Although you will need to update your website regularly to keep it fresh and make sure it reaches full potential.)

4. Self-Publish a book

There are self-publishing options for every type of book, from short instructional guides to romance novels to nonfiction tomes. If you’ve written a book and you’re unsure what your next step should be, why not consider self-publishing?

Publishing your own book is an incredibly rewarding experience, as you have control over every step of the process. This can be a double-edged sword, however. After starting down the path to self-publication, many authors realize that while they love writing, they don’t love obsessing over font and margin options or negotiating with cover artists.

And even if you use a free service, such as Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing , you’ll need to spend money on editing, cover design, marketing, and advertising.

The hope is that you would make that money back from your book sales, but there are no guarantees. But if you play your cards right, it’s possible to turn a profit from your self-published book.

5. Create affiliate content

Ever notice how almost every food blogger includes Amazon links to their favorite ingredients and cookware? Or maybe you found an article on Pinterest listing an outdoor enthusiast’s essential camping gear.

These are both examples of affiliate content, where you (the affiliate) partner with a company to drive traffic to their website and earn commissions on any resulting sales. Affiliate marketing content is an excellent way to generate passive income on your blog or website.

It takes a little strategizing, but once you develop a plan and implement your affiliate content, you can make money while you sleep .

6. Write scripts for video creators

If you understand scriptwriting’s technicalities, you can bring in money by partnering with a video creator. It’s pretty common for video creators to have great screen presence—but not-so-great writing skills, so there are plenty of gigs to be had in this field.

Video content is exploding in popularity, so now is a great time to get your foot in the door and add some script-writing experience to your resume. These gigs are often posted on job boards , and you can also take the initiative and reach out to some content creators whose work you enjoy to see if they could use a hand with scriptwriting.

"60% of businesses use video as a marketing tool." - Biteable

7. Write show notes for podcasts

Show notes are a written online resource for podcast listeners that accompany each episode of a podcast. Every podcast approaches show notes a little differently, but typically, they are brief, easy-to-scan episode summaries that often include additional relevant resources. You can find work writing show notes on job boards, or send cold pitches out to podcasters you would like to work with as a freelance writer.

8. Create written content for social media

Large companies typically have a marketer (or a team of them) dedicated to keeping their social media running smoothly. But smaller businesses often can’t hire a full-time employee to manage their social media presence. Freelancers are the ideal solution, and are a win-win for everyone.

Think about your favorite local ice cream parlor, gift shop, or espresso stand, and do a little digging into their social media presence. If you notice that they haven’t posted anything in months or that they struggle with creating high-quality, engaging content, then you just found an excellent opportunity to pitch your writing services.

There’s no need to bash them or focus too much on their social media mistakes , but you can start a polite and friendly conversation where you mention that you noticed room for improvement. Try to emphasize what they stand to gain from working with you and how much potential you see in their social media presence.

Before you pitch your social media writing services, make sure you do your research on fair pricing and know which services you want to offer at what rates. If a business owner shows interest in working with you, the last thing you want to do is keep them waiting while you iron out details you could already have had in place.

9. Produce content for local businesses

While you’re talking to small, local business owners about their social media content, don’t forget the other services you can provide as well.

Maybe a local business could use your help with the occasional blog post, copy for their website, or informational materials like brochures and pamphlets. If you need a list of local businesses, consider joining your local chamber of commerce. Their events can be an effective way to network with other local business owners.

10. Submit magazine articles

Do you have a juicy story from your personal life that your friends love hearing over and over again, or a political perspective that incites the “mind-blown” emoji from every person you share it with? Write it down and turn it into a magazine article to make money.

The magazine industry may not be as prominent as it once was, but it is still going strong , and plenty of freelance writers are getting paid to write magazine articles. Some magazines pay upwards of $500 per article.

Do a little research to find the magazines that would be the best fit for your article, and make sure they haven’t published anything too similar in the recent past.

This is also a good time to find the magazine’s submission guidelines—make sure you follow their instructions carefully, so you have a better chance of getting accepted.

11. Create an information product

If you’re an expert at something, you can monetize that knowledge by creating and selling informational products. This can be an ebook, a video, a short PDF, or any electronic format sharing your insights. Don’t be afraid to get creative here!

Online information products are an excellent way to generate revenue because there are little to no overhead costs involved. You don’t need to worry about packing and shipping a physical product, nor do you need to be involved in the transactions once you handle the initial logistics of making your product available.

The most important thing is to make sure you’re providing a high-quality product with valuable tips and tricks that your customers won’t be able to find elsewhere. If your customers love what they learn from you, they’re much more likely to pay for other products you offer and recommend your business to their friends.

12. Ghostwrite online content

Want to know a secret?

When you see a byline on an online article or blog post, there’s a pretty good chance that the named author didn’t actually write that content. Ghostwriting is not just for celebrity autobiographies; a lot of blogs and websites hire ghostwriters, too.

If you’re okay with taking home the paycheck but not seeing your name on the byline, seek out ghostwriting gigs. These jobs often command rates of 30% to 50% more than bylined work because they aren’t pieces you can add to your portfolio or claim responsibility for.

13. Write video game guidebooks

Streaming your gameplay isn’t the only way for gamers to make money online. If you know a video game inside and out, consider writing a guidebook for it and selling it as a PDF.

If you don’t want to handle the logistics of selling your own product, you can always write freelance articles and guides for video game websites and magazines.

"In 2019, the gaming industry has generated total revenue of $151.9 billion." - Review42

14. Create destination guides

Whether you love to travel or are the go-to person for the best spots to visit in your hometown, you can turn your knowledge into a profitable destination guide. This can be an extensive information product that you sell on your blog or website, or you can pitch it to a travel magazine or blog accepting these types of publications.

15. Write poetry

Poetry may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about making money writing online, but it’s possible to turn a profit off of your poems. There are several places you can submit your poetry online for publication, and if your piece is selected, you’ll get a paycheck on top of bragging rights. Here are some of the top-paying online poetry publishers:

• The Sun Magazine : Pays $100-$250
• Poetry Foundation : Pays $300+
• Boulevard Magazine : Pays $50-$250
• Crazyhorse : Pays $20-$200
• EPOCH : Pays a minimum of $50 per poem

16. Transcribe documents

Transcribing is flexible work that can pay very well once you have some quality pieces in your portfolio. High-paying transcription jobs often require experience, special equipment, and specialized medical or legal knowledge.

But don’t let that discourage you if you think you’d enjoy the work. You can quickly get your foot in the door by taking on a few simple, lower-paying gigs. Check out these reputable transcribing sites to learn more:

• TranscribeMe

17. Write personal essays

If you have interesting life stories, the world wants to hear them. Lots of websites pay you for the right to publish your personal essays. Further below, you’ll find some publications to pitch.

You could also turn your essays into a blog or website, although you should be very strategic if you decide to go this route; blogs dedicated to niches tend to perform exceptionally well, while personal perspective blogs do not.

18. Create greeting card sayings

Someone has to write the sayings and poems on greeting cards. Frequently, that someone is a freelance writer. If you think you have what it takes to create a best-selling greeting card, these companies that pay for greeting card verse submissions:

• Oatmeal Studios
• Blue Mountain Arts

19. Write product descriptions

Some companies pay quite well to ensure that the product descriptions on their websites are clear and informative. Look for these gigs on job boards or pitch the company yourself. There are even websites you can join, such as Crowd Content , that pay you to write product descriptions for their clients. You can also find possible clients for this on sites like Upwork .

20. Start copywriting

Copywriting can refer to any writing that is specifically used for promotion and marketing. This can include content on websites, video scripts, blog posts, emails—you name it.

Businesses use copy to promote a product or service and drive the reader to action. Some companies hire freelance copywriters, some hire copywriters from marketing agencies that work with multiple companies, and some have staff copywriters. You can find copywriting work on job boards of all kinds, including Indeed and Zip Recruiter.

21. Create email sequences

An email sequence is a series of automated emails sent from a business to its clients at different sales cycle stages. Companies also send out email sequences when someone takes a specific action (or lack of action), such as clicking a link in an email or leaving an e-commerce site with items still in the shopping cart.

If you have a strong understanding of email marketing tactics, you can work with any company to create or improve their email sequences. Since more companies are getting into email marketing , there is plenty of opportunities to make money writing here.

Nearly 90% of marketers use email marketing to distribute content organically. - Content Marketing Institute

22. Write technical manuals

Technical writing is a lucrative field because it requires extensive knowledge of the industry you’re writing for. Technical writers need to know how to take complex information and break it down into simple, easy-to-understand messages.

23. Post on a revenue sharing site

Revenue sharing sites host your content and give you a percentage of the ad revenue generated from the page in exchange. This can be a great way to gain experience writing online , since you don’t have to worry about setting up your own website or driving traffic—although you should do everything you can to market your work and encourage people to read your work on revenue sharing sites.

Here are some examples of revenue sharing sites where you can get paid to write articles:

24. Enter a writing contest

Keep an eye out for writing contests, and throw your hat in the ring when you can. This one is a bit of a gamble because only the winners get paid, but it could well be worthwhile.

Some contests pay their winners surprisingly well, and winning can also be a great way to gain exposure as a writer. So if you have the time, why not give it a shot?

Here are a few reputable contests to get you started:

• Reedsy lists over 100 writing contests
• Biopage’s Storytelling Contest pays $100 to $300 for winning short stories.

25. Write resumes

If you have a knack for creating effective resumes, you can find freelance work writing resumes for job hunters. Check job boards for resume writing gigs, and spread the word through social media that you are accepting clients for resume makeovers.

As a similar way to get paid to write, you can also specialize in LinkedIn profiles. Many professionals are willing to pay for an optimized profile that can help them land work.

26. Write and sell songs

Do you love writing music? You can sell your songwriting services online with the help of these websites:

• Nashville Songwriters Association

27. Review books

Calling all readers! Did you know you can get paid to review books? If you can read quickly and write engaging, objective reviews, this could be an excellent way to earn some extra money.

Here are some companies that accept applications for book reviewers:

• Reedsy Discovery
• Online Book Club

28. Do SEO writing

SEO writers are some of the best-paid freelance writers because they provide the most value to their clients. These specialized writers know plenty of SEO tips, including researching keywords and integrating them into websites to make them rank higher in search results.

Semrush lists seven SEO Certification courses that you can take if you want to learn more about SEO, some of which are free.

29. Write sponsored content

If you have a blog, writing sponsored content is a no-brainer. Simply put, sponsored content is anything that a company pays you to write and publish on your blog.

There are tons of options for companies you can work with, and some creative ways to write sponsored content that doesn’t feel like advertising. Check out these trusted sponsored post networks you can join to find paid blogging opportunities:

• Blog Meets Brand

How can you find paid writing opportunities online?

There are several ways to find legitimate opportunities to make money writing online. The links provided in the above examples are an excellent start, and we have even more ideas for you below.

Cold pitching companies you want to work for

As a freelance writer, one of the most critical skills for you to develop is learning how to cold pitch your services. This is where you send unsolicited emails to companies or individuals to offer your writing services.

Since the people you’re approaching didn’t ask for your help, it’s normal to get many nos. But there’s also a chance that the business does need your services, and you’ll never know unless you ask.

Searching online job boards

Online job boards are a great resource for finding any work, freelance writing gigs included. Here are a few of our favorite reputable job boards. You’ll find some free ones and others that you’ll need to pay to access:

• Freelancing Females
• Freelance Writers Den
• Blogging Pro

Pitching bloggers who accept guest posts

When you’re looking at blogs, take note of the ones that include guest blogging articles. Use your cold pitching skills and email the author to offer your guest writing services.

Bloggers are typically very busy people, and they’re often grateful for the opportunity to outsource some of their work. Not all bloggers can afford to pay their guest bloggers, so it’s up to you if you want to accept free work or not.

Sometimes the new connection and link to a published article that you can add to your portfolio are worth it, but only you can decide.

Searching on social media

It’s becoming more common for companies to turn to social media to find writers to hire. The next time you’re scrolling through Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn, take a moment to check out these hashtags:

• #needwriters
• #hiringwriters
• #writerswanted
• #writersneeded
• #bloggerswanted

Then read through the listings and see what catches your interest. You can often find opportunities in a variety of niches this way.

Submitting queries to publications

If there’s a magazine or website you love, check and see if they accept submissions from freelance writers. See further below for tips on finding a publication to pitch.

Networking with other freelance writers

Keeping in touch with your writer acquaintances is always a good idea. Don’t be afraid to mention that you’re always looking for new writing jobs—the next time they get an offer that they’re too busy for, they may just pass your name along.

You can connect with other writers on social media or at in-person events. Work on keeping your working relationship positive, and you never know when you’ll see a referral coming your way.

Pro tip:Search for freelance writer groups on Facebook, LinkedIn, and other social platforms.

Posting on social media

If you don’t already have social media accounts strictly dedicated to your writing business, don’t waste any time in getting them established. Social media is a fantastic resource to find paid writing opportunities; the occasional post announcing that you’re accepting new clients can do wonders for your business. Don’t forget to encourage your followers to share your posts. Someone in your network may know someone who is searching for a writer.

Creating a website to share your services

Setting up a website to help advertise your writing services is a great way to appear more professional to prospective clients. You can share a link to your website whenever you apply for a gig or cold pitch your services.

Here are some essential elements to include:

• Your resume
• A professional photo of yourself
• Links to any published writings of your own
• Sample articles
• A list of services you provide
• Testimonials from past clients
• Your contact information or even a contact form so potential clients can email you directly from your site

Searching on Craigslist in major cities

Craigslist often has paid writing opportunities, so don’t overlook this resource. Remember to search other locations outside of your own city, too. Check the listings for major metropolitan areas, where people post the majority of jobs. Here are five cities you should check regularly:

• Los Angeles
• San Francisco

Another tip to help you find assignments on this website - writing jobs on Craigslist are sometimes posted under “Gigs” and sometimes under “Jobs,” so be sure to check both sections.

Asking past freelance writing clients if they have more work for you

As mentioned earlier, networking is essential. Keeping in touch with your past clients is equally important. There’s no need to hound them, but don’t be afraid to check in periodically and see if there’s anything else they need help with.

Where can you submit your writing online for money?

When deciding where to submit your writing, you want to make sure that the publication will pay its authors and that it fits well with your preferred writing style. Here are a few possibilities for you to check out, organized by niche.

If you prefer writing personal essays, you’re in luck. Here are five sites that might pay you for your essays:

The Bold Italic

Can you write a personal essay about the spirit of San Francisco that will make readers laugh or cry? If yes, submit it to The Bold Italic . The editors will review it and make a decision. If it’s published, you’ll get $50.

Buzzfeed Reader

If you want your personal essay to be read by the masses, you’ve got to pitch the editors over at Buzzfeed Reader . It pays competitive rates for essays about nearly any fresh idea.

The LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired in San Francisco pays for dynamic personal essays written by blind or visually impaired writers. It will occasionally publish pieces written by writers outside of this category. The editors enjoy working collaboratively with you on the piece, and pay $100 upon publication.

If you can write a unique personal essay with a strong voice, the editors at Dame want you to send a pitch. A published essay will earn you about $150, though you’ll finalize payment details throughout the submission process.

Business, career, and finance

The penny hoarder.

This popular website is a great place to pitch if you have a laid-back writing style and unique tips about earning or saving money. The Penny Hoarder gives detailed pitch directions and provides a form you can fill out, making the whole process as simple as possible. If your pitch is accepted, an editor will discuss payment with you at that time.

Doctor of Credit

Do you have a strong understanding of consumer credit law? Have you found a unique credit card from a small issuer? Doctor of Credit is a great blog that may publish a guest post if you have niche financial knowledge to share. They pay $50 per post.

Income Diary

This website is all about making money online, from blog design to content creation to entrepreneurship and a success mindset. Income Diary pays up to $200 for an article on these topics.

Freelance Mom

If you know how to balance being your own boss and being an awesome mom, Freelance Mom wants to hear from you. You can earn between $75 and $100 on articles between 900 to 1,500 words.

Family and parenting

Pregnant chicken.

This fun and informative website features pregnancy tips and stories about pregnancy, childbirth, and being a new parent. Pregnant Chicken pays $100 per post.

Zift publishes articles relating to parenting in a technology-driven world. If you have an evergreen, original article about managing kids and screen time, you could earn $100 for it.

Your Teen Media

If you’ve raised teenagers and seen it all, you can get paid to write by Teen Media , a trusted editorial source for readers seeking information about raising teenagers. Payment rates are not listed on their websites, but you can discuss this with the editor if your pitch gets accepted.

Go World Travel

This is a great place to pitch if you’re a new writer. Go World Travel publishes contributions from first-time writers and experts alike. If you can tell a captivating, descriptive story about your travels, you can earn $30 to $40 per article.

Matador Network

You’ll need to set up a profile with Matador Network to respond to their calls for submissions. Once you do, you can earn $40 or more for short commissioned travel articles.

GoNOMAD is a resource for “honest, accurate, well-written and detailed articles and destination guides that speak to an educated, curious, and well-traveled audience.” They pay $25 for stories between 1700 to 2200 words long.

Extra Crispy

Extra Crispy is all about breakfast, and they are looking for opinion pieces, stories, essays, recipes, etc. This is the perfect place to pitch if the most important meal of the day also happens to be your favorite. It doesn’t list payment terms on its website, so you’ll need to work that out with the editor if your pitch is accepted.

Taste of Home

This family-favorite publication publishes recipes from home cooks. You can sign into their website to see what types of recipes they are currently looking for. Taste of Home discusses payment rates upon acceptance.

If you have a unique perspective on food culture, try pitching Eater . They cover a wide range of food-related topics, so take a look and see if you can come up with an idea they might love! Payment terms are not listed on their website.

Digital Ocean

DigitalOcean is looking for talented authors to create technical tutorials and articles about software development. In addition to a personal payout (typically $300), you’ll also get to select a tech-focused charity to receive a donation from DigitalOcean.

If you can create original content to add to Linode’s library of technical guides and tutorials, you can earn $300. They currently are focusing on adding articles about Kubernetes, Linux essentials, and databases, so if you send a pitch about one of those topics, you’re more likely to be accepted.

Do you consider yourself a WordPress expert? If yes, consider pitching WPHUB . Depending on your article’s topic and length, they pay between $10 to $200 for content about web design trends, exploring useful plugins for developers, coding best practices, and other WordPress-related topics.

How to send a pitch for an online writing gig

Whether you're trying to send a submission to a specific blog or applying for a gig you found on a job board, you’ll need to send a pitch if you want to get paid to write.

If you’re wondering what a pitch is, it’s a written correspondence in which you explain to an editor or publisher an idea you have for an article, blog post, story, etc., and ask them to consider hiring you to execute your idea.

While you want your pitch to have your voice and not sound like you copied and pasted it, there are a few essential pieces to include. Here’s what every pitch needs:

• The editor’s name. Addressing your pitch to the right person will show that you did your homework. On this note, also make sure you send it to the correct email address.
• Details about your idea. No need to send the entire finished piece (unless it’s asked for). However, you need to make it clear what your story is about and why you’re the best person for the job.
• A brief bio. The editor doesn’t have time to read your life story, but you should introduce them to you and share any relevant experience you may have.
• A link to your portfolio. This gives the editor the chance to get a feel for your writing abilities and style. If you write in a wide range of styles, it’s a good idea to only link to the ones that best match the publication you’re pitching to.

It’s natural to feel a little nervous when submitting a pitch, especially for new writers. Whatever you do, don’t let your fear of rejection or imposter syndrome stop you from sending a pitch. Manage your expectations, and know going into it that you will receive a lot more nos than yeses.

That’s true for even the most talented writers, though, so don’t take it personally. Keep at it, and eventually, your pitch will reach the person who’s ready to work with you.

5 tips for successful pitching as a freelance writer

To improve your acceptance rate, here are five tips to help you send a better pitch:

1. Follow directions

If you are replying to a job listing or submitting to an established publication, make sure you carefully follow any guidelines they provide. If the publisher thinks that you can’t follow simple instructions such as giving your email the proper subject line or saving your resume in the specified format, they probably won’t be very eager to work with you.

2. Pitch for topics you’re comfortable writing about

When you’re first getting started, It’s tempting to pitch for any and all gigs you can find. But it’s highly encouraged that you pitch selectively.

You don’t need to stick to just one niche, but if you pitch topics you’re genuinely excited about, your passion and expertise will show, it’ll take you less time, and your finished work will be stronger.

3. Send a great idea

If you’re pitching an idea you came up with for a magazine article or a guest blog post, take some time to research the existing content and see what’s missing, so you don’t suggest topics they’ve already published.

Try to come up with a unique angle or provide a different perspective. That way, you send a great idea instead of a topic the site has already covered.

4. Explain why it’s a great fit

Make it clear to the publisher that you’re familiar with the publication and that you know what they’re looking for. Don’t make it about you; emphasize what they and their readers stand to gain from a partnership with you.

Do your research beforehand and know who their target audience is, what types of content they typically publish, the tone they usually write in, etc. The more you understand their style, the more you can blend in and convince them that it’s a natural partnership.

5. Keep it short

Editors are busy and don’t have time to read a novel in their inbox. Your pitch is the perfect place to show that not only are you a great writer, but you have an excellent understanding of clear and concise communication. Stick to the point, and don’t run off on unrelated rabbit trails.

How to get paid to write online

When you write content online, you’re typically considered a contract writer instead of an employee. This means you’ll need to send an invoice if you want to get paid.

An invoice is a simple document that sums up the work you did for your client, so they can see what they owe you. Basically, it’s a bill for services rendered.

It’s essential to make your invoice look professional. If you have branding elements or a logo, you’ll want to include those.

Your freelance writing invoice should include the following elements:

• The word “Invoice” at the top. You want to make it clear to your client that this is an official billing document so that they’re more likely to pay you promptly.
• Date you sent the invoice.
• Your client’s name.
• Your contact information.
• An itemized list of services provided, with short, clear descriptions of each, and individual rates for each service.
• Dates services were provided.
• Payment rate.
• Total amount due.
• Any payment terms previously agreed upon.
• A unique invoice ID number for your records.

There are invoice templates available online that can help you quickly set up invoices to send to your clients. The downside to using templates is that you can't easily track the payment status of all the different invoices you've sent to your clients.

Wave's invoicing software lets you do everything above (and more!) for free, no strings attached. You can create unlimited invoices with your logo and keep tabs on whether clients have seen your invoices. There are also options to set up recurring invoices for regular clients, which can save you a lot of time and headaches. If you turn on the payments option, there’s a small per-transaction fee when a client makes a payment.

Wave Money , a new service we’re launching, lets you deposit client payments and manage funds in an FDIC-insured account. We’re transforming the business banking industry with small business owners in mind. It’s the perfect online business banking option for freelance writers and other entrepreneurs.

How to create a portfolio to help you make money writing online

Having a solid portfolio is a crucial tool for any writer. Follow the below tips to make your portfolio as strong as possible.

Keep your portfolio up-to-date with your best new work

It doesn’t matter how much amazing content you created three, five, or ten years ago. Your potential clients want to see that you have recent publications under your belt.

Don’t include everything

Think of your portfolio as your highlights reel. Only include the writing you’re most proud of and that aligns with the type of work you hope to get more of. There’s no need to have articles from your stint as a sports reporter if you’re trying to break into beauty blogging.

Break it into categories

If you do more than one type of writing, keep your portfolio well organized so that your potential clients can easily find the work that is most similar to what they want to hire you for.

Host it in an effective location

Your personal business website is the best place to keep your portfolio. However, if you don’t have a website yet, you can always use a portfolio-hosting website such as Contently or ClearVoice .

7 Red flags to watch for with online writing jobs

While you can legitimately get paid to write, there are scams out there. Knowing what to look for can help you avoid getting scammed, so keep an eye out for these red flags.

• Anything that sounds too good to be true.
• Any online gig requiring you to send money before you make money (except for some legitimate publications that charge a nominal submission fee).
• A potential client asking for too much personal information.
• Job postings that list unprofessional email addresses that look like a jumbled mess of letters and numbers.
• Vague job descriptions.
• Meager pay for the amount of work. (And on the other end, payment that seems way too high for the demands of the job.)
• A company requesting that you do trial work for free to evaluate or sample your services.

While these red flags don’t necessarily mean you’ve stumbled upon a freelance writing scam, seeing one does mean you need to proceed with caution. You don’t want to get your identity stolen or complete work you never get paid for.

Time to take action

Now that you’ve learned about the best options available for you to get paid to write online, it’s time to get out there and give it a shot. Remember, there’s nothing you can gain from doubting yourself, so show a little faith, pick a path to get started with, and begin to make some money. With the right attitude and enough determination, anyone can make a living writing online.

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8 Online Writing Sites That Pay You This (2024)

Brett Helling is the founder of Gigworker.com. He has been a rideshare driver since early 2012, having completed hundreds of trips for companies including Uber, Lyft, and Postmates.

Since that time, he has expanded his knowledge into the Gigworker site, as well as writing the book Gigworker: Independent Work and the State of the Gig Economy Paperback,  now available on Amazon .

Are you looking for ways to earn money with your writing skills but don’t have the experience? You’re not alone!

The onset of COVID-19 brought freelance writing gigs to the forefront of remote employment opportunities. Research reveals over 70 million Americans did freelance work  in 2022.

Of that number, 82% are freelance writers. That’s around 54 million people in the U.S. alone! Now you’d think that’s too much competition for beginners to handle, but the truth is the opposite.

Finding online writing sites that pay money doesn’t have to be taxing, and most are open to beginners!

This article introduces you to 9 freelance writing sites with extensive job postings fit for your skill level.

• Best Online Writing Sites [At A Glance]
• What are Online Freelance Writing Sites?
• Why Are Freelance Writing Sites Important?
• Do I Need an Online Writing Site to Build a Freelance Writing Career?
• What is the Best Online Freelance Writing Site?
• What is the Best Free Online Writing Site?
• 1. Trust Rating
• 2. Pay Range
• 3. Job Listings
• 4. Application Process
• 5. Online Courses or Blogs
• 1. Upwork: Our Pick
• 2. Blogging Pro: Runner-Up
• 3. Fiverr: Also Great
• 4. Contently – Best for Experienced Writers
• 5. Writers Work – Best Pooled Writing Jobs
• 6. iWriter – Best for Tiered Writing Gigs
• 7. WriterAccess – Best for Long-term Writing Job
• 8. ProBlogger – Best for Blog Writing
• Other Online Gigs to Check Out
• Do Online Writing Jobs Pay Well?
• What is the Best Writing Niche?
• Wrapping Up

The internet has many opportunities for freelance writers, but only a few stand out for bringing in real profit and helping you become a successful freelance writer.

Here are our top picks for 2023:

• Upwork :  Our Pick
• Blogging Pro :  Runner-Up
• Fiverr :  Also Great
• Contently :  Best for Experienced Writers
• Writers Work :  Best Pooled Writing Jobs
• iWriter :  Best for Tiered Writing Gigs
• WriterAccess :  Best for Long-term Writing Jobs
• ProBlogger :  Best for Blog Writing

An Overview of Online Freelance Writing

There is no official date when freelance writing started because freelance writers have been around even before digital platforms were created.

But it’s safe to consider the early 2000s as the dawn of the online freelance writing job trend. Notable sites like  ProBlogger shares their small-scale origins , which have become a huge success over time.

Freelance writing sites are the one-stop shop for businesses and startups seeking writing services. They’re central hubs for hiring writers and finding job boards with quality writing gigs.

Some more intuitive websites have features that allow clients to match their writing jobs with the ideal candidate. This results in a mutually beneficial arrangement that guarantees satisfaction for both the business and the content writers.

A freelance writing website reduces the need for companies to shoulder all the legwork involved in hiring talents. They don’t need complex contracts to engage experienced freelance writers.

On the writer’s side, accessing these freelance platforms streamlines the job search process and helps boost their writing portfolio.

You can have multiple freelance writing jobs in a few months, which allows you to gather referrals and recommendations from happy clients.

Freelance writing sites aren’t required to build a writing career, but they help speed up the process.

Taking on multiple writing jobs within this active community builds up your reputation, skill, and network — factors that help you stand out from the competition.

The Best Online Writing Sites at a Glance

We’ve rounded up our best picks for freelance writing websites and come up with two all-rounders.

With approximately 5 million clients using the platform, Upwork is our best pick for starters looking to understand how freelance writing works.

Its ‘Writing & Translation’ job board category boasts 146k+ active contracts, with clients giving an average 4.8 -star rating to writing professionals.

This includes a range of talents like proofreaders, content writers, translators, ghostwriters, and more.

Blogging Pro is our top choice for niche-focused freelance writing gigs.

It’s a job board that prospective freelancers can use for free, minus the need to create an account.

One of the things we like about this portal is its straightforward application process that details everything you need to know about a job with just a click.

Clients of this site must pay their writers a minimum of $15 per project, eliminating the risk of getting scammed.

Features to Look for In an Online Writing Website

Freelance writing opportunities have attracted many full-time professionals, so the competition is high.

This can result in some people, especially those with no experience, agreeing to jobs that don’t honor their contracts.

To  avoid falling into freelance scams , you must be critical in assessing whether or not the portal you’re signing up for is legit.

Here are features to look for before taking on online writing jobs:

Be wary of freelance websites with a Google review star rating of less than 3. While online ratings are ultimately subjective, they reflect the user experience that professionals and clients have for the platform.

You also want to check review sites like TechRadar or online forums like Reddit and Quora to see what other users think of freelance writing websites.

Online freelance writing jobs vary in pay range, and it’s primarily driven by the fact that clients have their specific project budgets. Some portals require businesses to offer a specific job price range, while others leave it to the client.

The best freelance writing sites have extensive job boards. This allows them to attract clients from all sectors and freelancers of different skill sets.

Check the requirements for signing up with a portal and see if you fit their eligibility. You’re better off starting small and building your portfolio rather than trying to break the big game without a solid portfolio to back it up.

The freelance writing industry is saturated with talent. And while there is a global demand to match that up, beefing up your skill set is necessary to ace the competition.

Check for platforms with built-in writing tools or knowledge bases. Do they have a blog you can subscribe to stay current with the freelance writing landscape?

Best Online Writing Sites: Our Top 3 Options [Ranked & Reviewed]

Here are our top 3 freelance writing sites, handpicked for their combined reach, user reviews, and job opportunities.

1. Upwork : Our Pick

Upwork is a global freelancing platform that connects businesses or startups with individual professionals. It hosts a variety of industries that include writing.

It’s a marketplace where the main currency is your skill. Housing over 12 million freelancers as of 2023, Upwork’s an attractive platform to boost your professional network too!

Key Features of Upwork

Below are features that make Upwork a powerhouse in freelancing:

• Global Network:  Upwork is available in over 180 countries, making connecting with global clients easier.
• All-In Mediation:  Upwork handles all the contracts, billing, and invoicing processes. This helps you focus on your craft instead of tracking all admin-related requirements before getting paid.
• Robust Writing Job Board:  Upwork has 80 writing-related categories under its filter, giving you more options to check if your first few don’t work.
• Upwork Connects:  A “Connect” serves as your internal currency and allows you to send client proposals or applications. Upwork’s free plan grants you 10 connects per month, while its Freelance Plus gives you up to 80 connects.
• Top Rated Badge:  This one’s given to Upwork’s top freelancers who have built a strong reputation on the platform and consistently get positive feedback from clients. Acquiring this badge gives you access to Upwork’s exclusive features like premium support and in-house talent scout assistance.

Pros of Upwork

• Hassle-free Onboarding:  All you need is an email address to start creating an account for free. No need for samples and exams to start searching for writing jobs.
• Seamless Portal Interface:  Upwork has intuitive navigation that helps you sift through job listings without getting lost.
• Location Flexibility:  Compared to some platforms that require you to be within the state or city near your client, Upwork supports fully remote jobs.

Cons of Upwork

• High Competition:  Landing the first gig remains challenging for any new freelance writer. Clients looking for content writing services often look for a solid portfolio before hiring their freelancer.
• Commission Fee:  Upwork takes 20% of the first $500 you bill to your clients. This can be too hefty, especially for starters with minimal projects.
• Dispute Resolution:  Users report difficulty connecting with Upwork’s resolution team to settle payment disputes.

Upwork Income

Content writing jobs on Upwork have an average pay of $15 to $40 an hour. Some companies who want a long-term arrangement with writers pay a flat fee of $800 a month.

Final Verdict

Upwork is a great job search engine that offers freelance writing jobs globally. It can take a while to build a solid reputation and attract regular clients, but it is nonetheless the most robust platform for writing gigs that pay.

2. Blogging Pro : Runner-Up

Blogging Pro is an easy-to-navigate job site for professional writers looking for trusted clients. Unlike most platforms that require you to create user profiles, Blogging Pro gives you total control over when and to who you want to apply.

Key Features of Blogging Pro

Here are the top features why we recommend Blogging Pro:

• Multiple Job Setup:  Most job listings in this platform are remote, though a few require onsite arrangements. They also offer freelance, contract, or part-time setups.
• Writing Tips & Tutorials:  Blogging Pro has quick links to articles that help you enhance your freelance work quality. Access is free with no sign-up requirement.
• In-demand Writing Categories:  The platform only advertises writing jobs such as content writing, journalism, and copywriting. This saves you time from having to sort through vast, non-writing jobs.
• Direct Apply:  Once you select a writing gig, you’ll get a comprehensive list of responsibilities and requirements and a snippet of the client’s background. Hitting ‘Apply for job’ leads you to the client’s website to complete the application.
• Fast Response Time:  Blogging Pro requires clients to respond to applications within 24 to 48 hours. This guarantees you’ll get a response whether you make it or not.

Pros of Blogging Pro

• Free to Use:  You don’t pay anything with Blogging Pro. No add-on costs, hidden fees, or cutbacks for commissions.
• Transparent Pricing:  Most jobs in this portal provide their exact pay range. If not, their websites will, which you can access when you apply.
• Reliable Clients:  Blogging Pro’s client list is a combination of established companies and startups with either brick-and-mortar stores or a legitimate online presence.

Cons of Blogging Pro

• Minimal Job Updates:  Unlike bigger portals with daily job streams, Blogging Pro only updates when clients choose to advertise on their platform. They do an average of weekly updates with fewer than 20 new jobs.
• Requires Experience:  While all positions are open to beginners, many clients indicate specific writing experience in their eligibility requirements. This can be tough to break for anyone with no portfolio to show.
• Inconsistent Income:  Blogging Pro doesn’t set any price range guideline for clients apart from the minimum $15 requirement. It’s up to you to determine if the company’s offering a competitive price for the writing service required.

Blogging Pro Income

Blogging Pro guarantees a minimum of $15 hourly pay for writers as part of its initial agreement with clients. Some jobs, like social media writers, can pay up to $300 per project.

Blogging Pro is an excellent choice for finding freelance writing jobs covering different niches.

Its direct link to clients gives you full control of the application process and an overview of the job budget, so you won’t have to do the guesswork in finding out how much you’ll earn.

Still, it doesn’t offer many jobs, and you’ll often need to showcase proof of writing experience to land a gig.

3. Fiverr : Also Great

Fiverr is the perfect platform for individuals who prefer working with other individuals instead of a large-scale company.

This website is an ideal entry-level choice since you won’t have to bid or negotiate for jobs.

You’ll also have access to a potential client or buyer’s requests, including instructions and files to assist you in delivering their expected result.

Key Features of Fiverr

Let’s look into the features we like best about Fiverr and see if it fits your ideal freelance writing website:

• Worldwide Reach:  Fiverr is available in 190 countries, with 42% of its users based in the U.S. It also houses clients from Canada, India, and the U.K.
• Seller Levels:  You can climb up the levels if you constantly deliver quality tasks on time.
• Pro-verified Feature:  If you have the background and experience of a trusted writer, then Fiverr might approve you as part of their ‘Pro Services’ feature. You can charge higher and increase the potential of attracting high-paying clients.
• Extensive Filter Customization:  Fiverr wants an ideal match for their clients, so their filters are extensive. You can consider this feature when setting up your profile, delivery timelines, price range, and writing style.
• E-learning Products:  If you’re looking to enhance your skills, try enrolling in Fiverr’s business and technical courses led by niche experts.

Pros of Fiverr

• Admin-free Experience:  The platform handles the admin side of things like producing invoices, promotions, transaction recording, etc.
• Option for Early Payout:  While only available to select sellers, the feature is an advantage. It’s an advantage if you need cash immediately instead of waiting for the typical 14-day clearing period.
• Opportunities to Broaden Skills:  Fiverr’s writing jobs range from simple content writing to more challenging gigs like technical writeups. You’ll encounter task requests you haven’t tried before that can be a great learning opportunity.

Cons of Fiverr

• Low-paying Gigs:  While you can charge your services for up to $995 per project, only top-rated and long-time freelancers enjoy that profit. Most starters will have to settle for the low price of $5.
• Issues with Scams:  There are reports of freelancers not getting paid by clients claiming they have yet to receive their orders. It can be difficult to dispute this unless you have complete and detailed communications with the client.
• Commission Fee:  Fiverr takes 20% off your earning regardless of your seller level or service cost. If you earn $5, you’ll only receive $4 as your take-home pay.

Fiverr Income

Your Fiverr income depends on the number of services you deliver. You can price it from $5 per project up to $995.

Fiverr’s a great place for freelancers who want to start small, minus all the hassle of promoting their services. By setting up an account, your profile’s automatically pooled under your chosen gig category.

It’s entry-level at best, which might not be the best option for advanced writers with considerable writing experience.

Notable Mentions: Other Writing Sites To Check Out

If you’re looking for alternative options other than our top 3 picks, you can try out these freelance writing sites:

4. Contently  – Best for Experienced Writers

Contently is for expert freelance writers looking at landing a gig with big companies. Some of their clients include Coca-Cola, Dell, Walmart, and Google.

Unlike the other platforms on our list, you don’t apply for a writing job to be a part of their team. Their in-house talent scouts choose writers from all around the web and invite them for an interview.

That being said, having a  solid creative platform  that showcases your diverse writing portfolio is an essential factor to be considered for any of their gigs.

Why is Contently a Great Option?

Landing a gig at Contently is a surefire way to skyrocket your freelance career. You can add your experience with them to your portfolio along with the brands or companies you worked with.

Best of all, you can  negotiate your rate . If you think they’re offering lower than your regular rate, you can demand higher pay.

Drawbacks to Contently

Its obvious drawback comes from the fact that it isn’t for beginners. Contently only contacts specialists with years of experience whose consistent portfolio speaks for their work quality.

Contently Income

Contently has a proprietary rate sheet that dictates the price range options for their projects. While we can’t divulge the specifics, online writers share earnings between $300 and $1,200 per piece.

5. Writers Work  – Best Pooled Writing Jobs

Writers Work is a paid freelance writing platform that offers real-time data on writing gigs worldwide. They offer a lifetime subscription of $47 or a monthly option of $15.

It’s an excellent platform allowing you to do all your writing tasks in it. It has a built-in text editor and work tracker feature to help you organize your workload and set writing goals.

Writers Work also has one of the most diverse types of writing requests, such as  writing stories for magazines or even fishing equipment reviews.

Why is Writers Work a Great Option?

One thing that Writers Work does well is its writing-only job board. You won’t find other popular gigs like graphic design or video production in its pool.

It’s a great platform for getting a constant stream of gigs you can easily filter by categories like finance, tech, and entertainment.

Drawbacks to Writers Work

There’s high competition in this platform, which may deter freelancers who are looking at quick payments. While there are varied writing options, landing those high-paying gigs requires skill and experience.

Writers Work Income

Writers get paid between $20 to $65 an hour. Other projects offer a fixed rate of $100 per project.

6. iWriter  – Best for Tiered Writing Gigs

iWriter is an excellent platform that offers opportunities for writers to upgrade their skills and earning potential while writing more.

The platform offers four writing levels – Standard, Premium, Elite, and Elite Plus. Accessing higher levels mean higher-paying gigs.

We found iWriter to have a diverse niche in terms of topics and ideas , with clients providing specific writing instructions, including required keywords and formatting.

Why is iWriter a Great Option?

It’s easy to join iWriter as a freelancer. You’ll only need to pass two 200-word writing tests to complete the registration. Once done, you can start using the platform to find gigs.

Happy clients also have the option to give you tips for a job well done, helping you increase your income. You also have the opportunity to get paid weekly or biweekly, with a minimum of $20 in earnings.

Drawbacks to iWriter

A significant drawback of iWriter is its steep commission. The platform takes 35% of your total earnings, which is higher than other platforms in our list charge.

Rising through the ranks may also be challenging for new writers as you must deliver 30 articles with a minimum of a 4-star rating before leveling up a step.

iWriter income

Depending on your writing tier, you can earn between $1.25 to $260 in iWriter. There’s a fixed price assigned to word counts across the board, which varies in level.

7. WriterAccess  – Best for Long-term Writing Job

WriterAccess is home to over 40,000 brands, all looking for quality writers. Many freelancers who start working with the platform often receive repeat orders from companies, agencies, and small businesses they’ve worked with.

This platform’s an excellent starting point for skilled writers looking for a freelance job with the potential for long-term employment.

Why is WriterAccess a Great Option?

WriterAccess is excellent for  building a freelance writing career  with reliable clients. You can get hired for all sorts of jobs, from writing blogs to writing short stories .

The platform screens all interested writers. If you pass, you’re automatically given a star rating, unlocking jobs within that level. The higher the rating, the bigger the pay.

Drawbacks to WriterAccess

While joining WriterAccess is free, getting approved can be a challenge. You must provide at least two public web pages as sample works on top of your general and industry experience.

WriterAccess income

All writers are paid 70% of what the client pays for each project.

8. ProBlogger  – Best for Blog Writing

ProBlogger is a must-try platform if you’re into SEO writing and blogging. Most of its job postings are from website owners who want to outsource the writing part of their content marketing strategy.

This platform is ideal if you enjoy writing across different topics and are fine communicating directly with the client or managing your workload.

Why is ProBlogger a Great Option?

ProBlogger is great because of its real-time job listings and quality clients who pay well for your services. Joining the platform is easy, and you don’t have to pay anything.

All you need is to register to create your online resume. From here, you can bookmark jobs and create job alerts to get up to speed with the most recent job ads.

Drawbacks to ProBlogger

ProBlogger’s quality clientele attracts the most talents, so expect tough competition. The fact that these clients pay $80 to post their job ads on the platform means they’re willing to pay, but they can also be picky in hiring freelance writers.

ProBlogger income

Writers earn from $25 to $200 per piece, depending on the complexity and research work required. In-house or full-time bloggers earn between $45,000 to $90,000 annually.

Is online writing too tough for starters? Here are alternative options to earn money online.

• High-paying Surveys :  Do you like answering surveys or giving quality feedback for products and services? This article introduces you to online surveys that pay well.
• How to Get Paid Playing Video Games :  Bring your gaming experience to a new level and get paid! Know websites and apps that pay money, gift cards, and other rewards.
• Get Paid to Text :  This is perfect for anyone who wants easy side hustles you can do any time, anywhere, even while on the go.

Frequently Asked Questions

ZipRecruiter reports an average $38 hourly rate for online writers, a decent figure for remote work. The total compensation, however, will depend on other factors like the number of hours you write, the employer, and fees taken out of your earnings.

The popularity of writing niche fluctuates, but top picks this 2023 include digital marketing, cryptocurrency, e-commerce, healthcare, and personal finance.

The freelance writing business is booming, and bagging a gig that pays well is possible if you know where to look.

Upwork is our top pick for the sheer volume of writing opportunities. Its thousands of jobs and multiple subcategories remain unbeatable, even with competitors like Fiverr.

Blogging Pro is also a favorite if you’re looking for niche-focused writing with clients that pay well.

Overall, checking out the online writing platforms we’ve listed opens you to opportunities to earn money by writing, even with little experience.

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Writing Essays for Money: A Guide for Aspiring Freelance Writers

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Are you looking to make money from your writing skills? One of the most popular—and increasingly in-demand—ways to do so is by writing essays for money. With online writing services on the rise and more students and professionals turning to them for help with their work, there has never been a better time to become a freelance essay writer. But before you jump into this career path, it’s important to understand what it entails—including the challenges and ethical considerations. 

The Essay Writing Market: An Overview 

The essay writing market is a unique and ever-growing sector. As students, professors, and professionals alike become increasingly aware of the range of online services, so does the demand for these services.

In this section, we’ll look at the different types of online writing services, discuss the demand for academic writing services, outline the demographics of people who use these services, and explain the factors that drive the demand for essay writing services. 

Types of Writing Services Available Online 

There are many different varieties of online essay-writing services available today. These include custom essay writing services (where a customer can provide specific instructions and have a paper written specifically to their needs), editing/proofreading services (for those who need help with formatting or spelling/grammatical errors in an existing document), research paper writing services (which provide essays based on individual research topics), copywriting or rewriting services (where customers can submit existing documents which will then be rewritten for them), and resume/CV writing service (which provide job seekers with tailored resumes or CVs). 

Demand for Academic Writing Services 

The demand for academic writing has grown considerably over the past decade as students have become more aware of the availability of such services. This is especially true among college students seeking assistance with their coursework.

In addition to students, there is also growing demand from professionals looking to outsource their written assignments due to lack of time or expertise. As a result, this market has seen exponential growth over recent years. 

Demographics of People Who Use These Services 

The demographic makeup of those using essay writing services is quite varied. On one hand, you have college and university students who turn to these companies when they need help with their coursework; on the other hand, there are also professionals from all walks of life who are looking to outsource their written assignments due to a lack of time or expertise.

Most customers tend to be from countries where English is not their first language; however, there has been an increasing number of US-based customers over recent years. 

Factors that Drive Demand for Essay Writing Services 

One major factor driving demand for these types of essay-writing services is convenience – customers can easily find what they need without having to do all the work themselves.

Additionally, many customers feel more comfortable entrusting their assignment with a company than tackling it alone due to a lack of knowledge or experience in certain subject areas. Finally, affordability plays an important role in this market – customers want quality work but at affordable prices, which many companies are able to offer them through competitive pricing models and discounts. 

With so many different types available, ranging from custom essay writing to resume/CV service providers, it’s easy to see why this industry continues to expand each year as more people realize just how convenient it can be when they need help with written assignments!

Writing Essays for Money: A Path to Both Flexibility and Financial Security 

Are you looking for a way to make money that provides you with both flexibility and financial security? Writing essays for money may be the perfect job opportunity for you. This blog post will explore the pros of writing essays for money and how it can help you reach your career goals. 

Flexibility in Work Schedule 

One of the biggest advantages of writing essays for money is that it allows you to work when and where it’s convenient. Since you’re working remotely, there’s no need to worry about commuting or taking time off from a traditional job.

You can write essays whenever it suits your schedule, whether early in the morning, late at night, or even on weekends. Plus, being able to work from anywhere means that you don’t have to be tied down to one location; if you want to take a vacation or travel for any other reason, all you have to do is pack up your laptop and go! 

Ability to Earn a High Income 

Another great advantage of writing essays for money is that it allows you to earn a very good income. Depending on how much experience and expertise you bring to the table and how much demand there is in your chosen field, you can significantly increase your earning potential.

Plus, since most projects are paid per word or page written (or sometimes both), it is easy to track your income and ensure that you’re getting paid what you deserve. 

Opportunities for Professional Growth 

Finally, writing essays for money can also provide great professional growth opportunities. As an essay writer, you will be expanding your knowledge base through research and practice and working with new clients from various backgrounds who might have different perspectives on certain topics.

You’ll also get exposure to different writing styles, which can help improve the quality of your own work over time. And if the client has requested revisions on their project, this is another chance for you to hone your skills while still getting paid!  

By taking advantage of this unique job opportunity now, you will be able to open up new doors professionally and financially secure yourself in the process. Thanks so much for reading!

Making Money Writing Essays: The Pros and Cons 

Making money by writing essays sounds like a great way to earn an income. It can be an enjoyable, flexible job with the potential for a good return on your investment. But is it really worth it? Let’s look at the pros and cons of writing essays for money so that you can decide whether this type of work is right for you. 

Unclear Ethical Considerations 

When you write essays for money, you must consider whether this type of work is ethically sound. It can be difficult to decide whether or not you are doing something wrong by helping someone else cheat their way through school.

At the same time, some argue that if students are willing to pay for essays, why should they be prevented from doing so? Ultimately, it’s up to each writer to decide if they are comfortable writing essays for money. 

Plagiarism and Academic Dishonesty 

One of the most serious issues associated with writing essays for money is the potential for plagiarism and academic dishonesty. When students turn in work that isn’t their own, they lie about their capabilities and cheat themselves out of learning experiences.

This can lead to serious consequences such as expulsion or loss of scholarship opportunities. As a writer, it’s important to ensure that all papers are written from scratch to avoid potential plagiarism or dishonesty problems. 

Pressure To Meet Tight Deadlines & Produce High-Quality Work 

Another drawback of writing essays for money is the pressure writers face when it comes to meeting tight deadlines and producing high-quality work on short notice. While some writers may thrive under such intense conditions, others may find them overwhelming and stressful.

If deadlines and high-pressure situations aren’t something you feel you can handle consistently, then this type of work may not be right for you. 

Possibility Of Dealing With Difficult Clients

Although there are many benefits associated with working as an essay writer, there is also the possibility that some clients may be difficult or unresponsive when it comes time to pay up or provide feedback on a project.

In these cases, it pays to take proactive measures such as setting clear expectations upfront to avoid any misunderstandings. Additionally, having a strong contract in place can help protect both parties in case something goes wrong during the course of a project.                  

Ultimately, only you can decide if this type of work suits your lifestyle; however, understanding both sides will help inform your decision-making process before committing one way or another!

How to Write Essays for Money with Confidence 

Writing essays for money can be a rewarding and lucrative way to make a living. When you take on the challenge of writing essays for money, you take on the responsibility of delivering quality work that will satisfy your client’s needs. You should keep certain best practices in mind to ensure success in this endeavor. Let’s explore four key areas for success in writing essays for money. 

Ethical Considerations and Avoiding Plagiarism 

As a writer being paid to write essays, you must understand how important ethics are in any professional venture. As a paid writer, your job is to write words and create original ideas and content that reflects your client’s unique perspective.

You must avoid plagiarizing other people’s work at all costs, even if it means taking extra time or research to gather the information needed to complete an essay assignment. Not only is plagiarism illegal and unethical, but it can also ruin your reputation as a writer if discovered by your clients! 

Time Management and Staying Organized 

Time management skills are essential when writing essays for money because oftentimes, deadlines must be met quickly and efficiently.

That said, good time management skills should never come at the expense of quality work. So you must have systems that help you stay organized and plan ahead for any potential roadblocks or problems you may face while completing projects on time.

One great way to do this is by creating lists of tasks that need completing and breaking them down into smaller chunks so they can be completed quickly without sacrificing quality or accuracy. 

Maintaining Quality While Meeting Tight Deadlines 

When writing essays for money, meeting tight deadlines while still creating quality work can seem daunting; however, there are ways around this problem!

By researching topics thoroughly before beginning an essay assignment – such as gathering facts, relevant quotes, or statistics –you will save time during the actual writing process since much of the material will already be gathered beforehand.

Additionally, having someone else proofread your work before submitting it can also help catch errors or typos before they become issues with your client! Lastly, always make sure to double-check all sources cited within the essay against the original source material (if available), so accuracy remains paramount throughout the entire project from start to finish.  

Building a Positive Relationship With Clients 

Writing essays for money requires more than technical know-how; it also requires maintaining positive relationships with clients over time so they can trust your abilities as a reliable writer who consistently produces high-quality work.

To build strong working relationships with clients over time, stay communicative throughout each project—from initial contact through completion—and provide regular updates whenever necessary so everyone stays on track toward meeting deadlines without sacrificing the quality of output in the process.

Additionally, having open lines of communication allows both parties involved in an essay assignment to discuss any revisions or changes needed before submitting final drafts, which helps ensure total satisfaction with each project! 

Where to Write Essays to Make Money

Writing essays for money is a great way to make extra income. Many websites offer freelance writing services where you can write essays and other types of content for clients who need them. You can also find opportunities to write essays for money on job boards and freelance marketplaces. Before taking on any project, it is important to research the client and make sure they are legitimate.

Are you looking for places to sell essays?

Here are 10 great options:

• Fiverr : Fiverr is a great platform for freelancers to offer their services, including essay writing.
• Upwork : Upwork is another popular freelance platform where you can find clients who need essays written.
• Guru : Guru is a freelance marketplace that connects businesses with professionals, including those who write essays.
• Freelancer : Freelancer is an online job board that allows freelancers to bid on jobs, including essay writing projects.
• PeoplePerHour : PeoplePerHour is a website where freelancers can find work, including essay writing jobs.
• iWriter : iWriter is a content creation platform that allows writers to create and sell essays online.
• Textbroker : Textbroker is an online marketplace for writers to create and sell content, including essays and other academic papers
• EssayShark : EssayShark is an online platform where students can get help with their essays from professional writers
• StudySolver : StudySolver offers students the opportunity to get help with their essays from experienced writers
• WritersDepartment : WritersDepartment provides freelance writers with the opportunity to write and sell essays online

Finding legitimate freelance essay writing jobs can be a challenge. Fortunately, there are a number of websites that offer opportunities for writers to find work and make money.

The future of the market for online writing services is looking bright. With more businesses and individuals turning to the internet for their content needs, the demand for quality writers will only increase. As technology continues to advance, so will the opportunities available to freelance writers willing to put in the time and effort necessary to create high-quality essays for money.

Therefore, if you want to make some extra cash with your writing skills, consider joining the growing market of freelance essay writers who are seeing success and making money through their work!

What Does It Mean To Take Inspired Action?

Is writing for a living possible exploring the reality.

When it comes to writing, Willow Tenny is a true pro. She has a wealth of experience in SEO copywriting and creative writing, and she knows exactly what it takes to produce quality content. On her blog, Willow Writes, Willow shares top writing strategies with both beginners and experienced writers.

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29 Great Ways to Make Money Writing Online in 2024

• Updated: 04/30/24
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We partner with bada$$ companies that offer products that help our readers achieve their goals! If you purchase through our partner links, we get paid for the referral at no additional cost to you! Read our disclosure for more info.

Are you looking for a way to get paid to write? Do you want to make money by writing articles, blog posts, stories, or maybe something else entirely?

There are so many different ways to make money from writing, depending on your skill set and desires.

Whether you want to write for magazines, blogs, or other outlets, you can get paid to write from the comfort of your own home.

It’s often a very flexible job with flexible rates and hours.

Writing can be a great side business to start or even a full-time gig, depending on what you’re looking for.

With the right approach and some tips from this guide on how to make money writing, you’ll be able to turn your passion into a lucrative career!

We’ll cover everything from finding clients to understanding different payment methods, and more.

What Skills Do You Need to Get Paid to Write?

The good news is that you don’t need much at all to start a writing career – just a few basics.

• Writing Skills: Of course, you should have some experience with writing. But the cool thing is that you can be a self-taught writer. You don’t need any special credentials or qualifications to get started.
• Grammar Skills: Of course, you’ll need to have a good understanding of grammar and punctuation. Your work shouldn’t need any additional proofreading.
• Research Skills: Being able to research topics quickly and accurately is essential for any kind of writing job. You may be required to cite your sources.
• Time Management Skills: As with any job, managing your time well will help ensure that you meet deadlines and keep clients happy.
• Marketing Skills: Promoting yourself as a writer is key in order to get new clients and maintain existing ones. You don’t have to be an expert in marketing but it helps! It also helps to have marketing experience to include in your writing to help your clients reach their audiences better.
• Communication Skills: This is important to communicate submission deadlines and negotiate your rates.

29 Ways to Get Paid to Write Online

Making money online is the ultimate dream for many people and why wouldn’t it be? Work when you want and often for how much you want.

The world of writing can open up your career to so many different opportunities.

Let’s explore those opportunities in more depth below.

1. Blogging

Why rely on others to pay you money for writing when you can be your own boss? One of the best ways to make money writing is to start blogging .

There are a lot of ways to monetize blog content , including affiliate programs , sponsored posts, display ads, or selling your own products and services.

It takes time and effort to build an audience for your blog but it can be a much more rewarding way to get paid for writing.

Once your own blog becomes successful, you can also accept guest posts from other writers to help you save time and focus on other areas of your business.

It’s also very common for many bloggers to also have freelance writing gigs on the side while they are working on building their blogging business.

2. Freelance Writing

If you don’t have the time or desire to maintain a blog, freelance writing may be a better option for you. Freelance writers are hired by individuals, companies, websites, and publications to produce content on their behalf.

You’ll need to market yourself in order to land jobs as a freelance writer but once you do, you can start making money from home while writing about topics that interest you.

Plus, there are so many options for where to find freelance work — from job boards to social media groups—so it’s easy to find gigs that fit your skillset.

There are freelance writing opportunities in almost every area that we will discuss on this list.

3. Content Writing

A lot of companies, websites, and publications hire content writers to produce blog posts for them.

As a content writer, you are responsible for researching topics, creating engaging content, and optimizing it for SEO.

This is an excellent way to get paid to write because you can find jobs in almost any industry.

Consider your writing niche and whether you want to be known for one particular niche or a variety of niches.

It’s also helpful to have experience with content marketing.

Many companies also offer regular updates so you won’t have to worry about finding new work once the first assignment is complete.

This type of online writing can be either a freelance or a full-time writing career, depending on the needs of the client.

4. Copywriting

Copywriters write persuasive messages that aim to convince readers into taking action (e.g., making a purchase).

They typically specialize in marketing copy for sales pages, emails, and more.

Copywriters need strong research skills, creativity, and an understanding of consumer psychology in order to craft effective copy that will resonate with their target audience.

Because copywriting is a more specialized form of writing, you can often get paid more in this industry.

5. SEO Writing

Search engine optimization (SEO) is key if you want people to find your content online.

SEO writers write articles that follow SEO best practices to ensure their content can easily found by search engines like Google or Bing.

In order to be an SEO writer, you should have an understanding of how blogs use SEO to drive traffic.

SEO writers typically get paid more than other types of writers because it’s considered a specialized skill.

If you’re familiar with keyword research and SEO, this is a great way to get paid to write.

Related: 17 Best SEO Content Writing Services

6. Technical Writing

Technical writers create documents such as instructions, manuals, and tutorials for products or services.

You need to be able to explain complex information in an accessible, concise way.

It can be a lucrative and stable career since it often requires long-term contracts with clients. Plus, you don’t have to worry about finding new work as often as freelance writers do.

That said, technical writers must have strong writing skills as well as an understanding of the subject matter they’re writing about.

7. eBook Writing

Writing eBooks is another popular way to make money from writing online. You’ll need to come up with a unique concept and construct compelling sales copy in order to attract readers — but if done right, it can be a great source of income.

The best eBooks are usually around 20,000 words and will cost you anywhere from $2-$10 per eBook.

Plus, once your book is published, it’ll be available for sale indefinitely — so you can continue to make money even after the initial launch!

8. Ghostwriting

Ghostwriters write content for other people without taking credit for it.

This type of writing requires discretion as you will often be required to sign a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) before your start the project.

It’s a great option if you’re looking for regular work, but just keep in mind that you won’t get any recognition or public acknowledgement for your efforts.

Ghostwriting is usually done for celebrities or high-profile clients who want to write books but don’t have the time or expertise to do so themselves.

The ghostwriter does all the work and then hands over the finished product to the client.

9. Proofreader or Editor

If you’re an experienced writer or editor, you may be able to make money by proofreading or editing documents for other people.

You’ll need a sharp eye for detail and the ability to catch any errors that may have been missed.

Proofreading is usually paid on a per-hour basis but it’s also possible to negotiate flat rate fees with clients as well.

Plus, if you become known as a reliable and accurate proofreader, you can start charging more for your services over time.

10. Essay Writing

If you have a background in academia or research, you may be able to get paid to write essays.

There are websites that provide essay-writing services to others that hire talented writers.

They usually charge per word or page so it’s important to be aware of how much you’ll get paid before committing to any project.

You’ll need some research skills as well as the ability to create an engaging story in order to succeed in this area — but if you have both, it can be a great way to make money online.

11. Resume Writing

If you have an eye for detail and a knack for distilling complex information into easily digestible chunks, resume writing may be the perfect job for you.

People often hire resume writers to help them create compelling resumes that will help them stand out among other applicants.

Resume writers typically charge by the project rather than hourly so it’s important to price your services accordingly.

Plus, once you establish yourself as a reliable service provider, you can start charging more over time.

12. Journalism

If you’re interested in pursuing a career as a professional journalist, there are plenty of opportunities available.

Journalists write news stories for magazines, newspapers, and websites.

You’ll need to have strong research skills and the ability to write compelling stories in an engaging way.

Many publications also require their journalists to have some experience with photography or video production.

Journalism can be a rewarding career — but it’s important to understand that writing for a living can be quite demanding at times.

13. Social Media Copywriting

Social media copywriting involves writing copy for social media posts.

Bloggers and other online publications pay writers to write social media copy for ads and organic posts.

This type of writing requires a unique blend of creativity, knowledge of the platform used, and an understanding of how to craft compelling messages that engage the target audience.

You should have at least a basic understanding of copywriting and know how to produce high-quality copy that resonates with the client’s audience.

14. Sales Page Copywriting

Sales page copywriting is one of the most lucrative areas of copywriting.

This type of writing requires you to craft persuasive sales messages that will entice potential customers to purchase a product or service.

You’ll need to understand how to structure an effective sales page and create copy that engages readers and convinces them to take action.

Sales page copywriters are often paid well for their services — but they also have a significant responsibility in terms of helping businesses meet their revenue goals.

So make sure you have the necessary skills before taking on this type of work!

This is a great job for a freelance writer because people don’t necessarily need sales page work on an ongoing basis.

15. Email Marketing Copywriting

As a copywriter that focuses on emails, you generally need to write emails and newsletters that build relationships with customers and keep them engaged.

Because email marketing is also often geared towards sales, you generally also should have experience with persuasive writing that drives conversions.

You should be familiar with email marketing best practices such as using personalization, segmentation, automated workflows, and A/B testing.

These skills will help you create content that resonates with your audience and drives desired action.

16. Grant Writing

Grant writing involves researching and applying for grants from governments, foundations, corporations, trusts, and other organizations.

As a grant writer, you’ll need to be able to research and identify potential funding sources, write compelling applications that demonstrate a clear need for the requested funds, and develop a thorough budget outlining how the money will be used.

Grant writing is an important part of many businesses — but it can also be very lucrative if you’re successful in securing grants for your clients.

Plus, once you become established as a reliable grant writer, you can start charging more for your services over time.

17. Teach Others to Write

If you have a lot of experience in professional writing, you may be able to make money by teaching others how to write.

You could set up courses on Skillshare , Udemy , other online learning platforms and help people learn the basics of copywriting, blogging, SEO, and more.

You’ll need to do some research into your target audience before creating any course content — but once you get started, it can be a great way to make money while helping others become better writers!

18. White Papers

White papers are in-depth research documents that provide detailed information about a specific topic.

They are often used as promotional materials by companies and organizations to inform potential customers and attract new business.

As a white paper writer, your job will be to write compelling content that is both informative and persuasive — so you’ll need excellent writing skills as well as some knowledge of the industry or topic you’re writing about.

It’s not an easy task but it can be very rewarding if done correctly — both in terms of money and recognition!

19. Start a YouTube Channel About Writing

Another great way to write for money is to create a YouTube channel to teach others how to do what you do!

You could create videos about copywriting, blogging, SEO, and other topics related to writing and then monetize your channel with ads.

You’ll need to have an engaging personality as well as the ability to produce high-quality content in order to draw in viewers — but if you put in the effort, it can be a great source of income.

So if you’re passionate about writing and want to share your knowledge with others, why not give it a try?

20. Short Stories

Writing short stories can be a great way to flex your creative muscles and make some money in the process.

You can submit your stories to literary journals and magazines, or even self-publish them on platforms like Amazon Kindle.

It takes an immense amount of work to create a compelling short story, but if you have the skills it can be a great way to make some extra income while doing something you love.

And who knows — maybe one day you’ll become the next JK Rowling!

21. Podcast Show Notes

If you’re an experienced writer who enjoys listening to podcasts, you may be able to make money as a podcast show notes writer.

This involves writing up summaries of the content discussed in each episode of a podcast and posting them on the show’s website or blog.

Most podcasters require this type of service and it’s a great way to network and build relationships in your industry.

You’ll need excellent summarizing skills as well as the ability to write concisely and accurately — but if you have both, this can be a great way to make some extra money from home.

22. Fiction Writing

For those who prefer longer works of fiction, writing novels can be a great way to make money from your writing.

You can self-publish your book or try to find an agent and traditional publisher — but either way, it takes a lot of hard work and dedication in order to get your novel out there.

If you have the willingness and ability to put in the time and effort required, though, it’s a great way to create something that will last forever!

So if you’re passionate about storytelling and believe that you have what it takes, why not try your skills as a fiction writer?

23. Transcribe Audio Files

Another great way to earn money for writing is by transcribing audio files.

Transcriptionists listen to audio recordings and type out what is said in the form of a written document.

You can find transcription jobs on freelance websites like Upwork and Fiverr, or you can reach out directly to podcasts and other audio-related services that are looking for transcribers. Transcribing audio files may not be as glamorous as other typing jobs , but it’s a great way to put your writing skills to use while making some extra cash!

24. YouTube Scripts

If you have a knack for writing engaging scripts, you may be able to get paid to write YouTube scripts.

Many YouTubers hire writers to create scripts for their videos that include the words they will say on camera and any other text they need to appear on the screen.

You’ll need to have an understanding of video production as well as some experience with scripting — but if you do, this can be a great way to get paid for writing while helping others get their messages across!

25. Copywriting Consultant

If you’re an experienced writer with a strong understanding of copywriting principles, you may want to consider becoming a copywriting consultant.

Copywriting consultants provide advice and guidance to clients who are looking for help improving their copywriting.

You’ll need to have a thorough understanding of marketing principles, web design trends, and SEO techniques in order to be successful in this role.

Plus, you’ll need strong communication skills in order to effectively consult with clients and provide them with useful feedback.

It can be an incredibly rewarding job — but it’s important to be prepared for the challenges that come along with it.

26. Writing Contests

Writing contests are a great way for experienced writers to showcase their skills and make some money at the same time.

You can find writing contests in various genres such as fiction, nonfiction, poetry, personal essays, and more — and you can often win cash prizes that can range from $50-$1000 or more.

By participating in these types of contests, you can also gain recognition from other writers who may be able to help open doors for new opportunities down the line.

A writing contest a great way to get your writing out there while also earning some extra cash — so be sure to keep an eye out for any upcoming writing competitions you may be interested in entering!

27. Product Review Writer

If you have an interest in technology or other consumer products, you may be able to make money writing product reviews.

Product review writers are responsible for researching and testing products, then writing detailed reviews of them that can help inform potential customers about the pros and cons of various models.

When writing reviews, you should have knowledge and experience with the products you’re reviewing.

This type of writing may be better as a side hustle because you may find it hard to earn enough income to do this full-time.

28. Paid Writing Internships

If you’re just getting started in the world of writing, a paid internship can be a great way to gain valuable experience and make some money at the same time.

Many companies, organizations, media outlets, and other businesses offer internships for writers who are interested in learning more about the industry.

These internships usually involve working closely with experienced writers and editors on various projects — so it’s a great opportunity to learn from the best!

Plus, many internships are paid — so you can also make some cash while gaining valuable experience.

29. Press Releases

Writing press releases is another great way to get paid for writing if you have a background in marketing.

Press releases are statements sent out to news outlets in an attempt to draw attention to a certain event, product, or business.

A good press release should be concise, clear, and informative — so you’ll need excellent writing abilities as well as some knowledge of how the media works in order to craft effective press releases that get noticed.

10 Best Websites to Find Writing Jobs

Now that you know the many ways you can write for money, let’s look at some of the best places to find writing jobs.

Many of the following websites have job boards that will help you find work as a freelance writer or part-time or full-time positions with companies.

You’ll also find many remote work opportunities with the job boards below.

• Upwork – Upwork is a great resource for finding freelance writing jobs of all kinds. You can find one-time projects, long-term contracts, and even full-time positions.
• Freelancer.com – Freelancer.com is another popular job board for finding freelance writing gigs, website designers, and other remote work.
• Fl exJobs – FlexJobs is a great site with for finding legitimate remote writing jobs with job boards in every industry you can think of.
• ProBlogger Job Board – ProBlogger is a great place to find freelance writing opportunities with a job board related to blogging and content creation.
• Guru – Guru is a platform designed specifically for connecting freelancers with remote job opportunities in a variety of industries, including writing.
• Indeed – Indeed is an online job board with millions of listings from all over the world. You can find a variety of writing jobs in different industries and locations.
• LinkedIn – LinkedIn is a great place to network with potential clients and search for freelance writing opportunities on their online job boards.
• Fiverr – Fiverr is a popular platform for finding one-time writing gigs and short-term projects.
• PeoplePerHour – PeoplePerHour is an online job board for finding short-term and long-term freelance writing gigs.
• WriterAccess – WriterAccess is a great platform for finding freelance writing jobs with companies that need content written on a regular basis.

How to Get Started Writing for Money

Let’s talk about some steps to consider when you’re getting started.

1. Explore Opportunities

The first thing you need to do if you want to get paid for your writing is to figure out what kind of writing you’d like to do.

The purpose of this article is to help you understand what opportunities exist, so take another look at the list above and do some additional research into any opportunities that interest you.

Explore some of the job boards to get a better idea of how much individual gigs pay and what is expected of you for each type of work.

2. Develop Your Writing Style and Process

Developing a consistent writing process is key when it comes to becoming a successful freelance writer.

Having a clear plan for how you create your content will help you stay organized and keep track of deadlines.

It’s also important to know your strengths and weaknesses so you can focus your time on what works best for you, whether it’s planning, researching, or writing itself.

Having a routine that works for you and sticking to it will help increase your productivity and efficiency as a writer.

Remember that every writing niche is different. Do some research into whatever niche(s) you choose to get ideas of what successful writing looks like.

3. Create a High-Quality Portfolio

Creating a portfolio of your work is essential if you want to make money online with writing.

The best place to showcase your portfolio is on your own website or blog.

High-quality examples of your work are always helpful because they provide potential clients with an idea of what you can do for them.

Make sure to include samples from different topics and genres, as this will show potential clients that you’re capable of writing on a variety of subjects.

4. Network with Other Writers

Building relationships with other writers is a great way to increase your chances of finding more and better writing opportunities.

You can network with other writers in person or online through social media sites like Twitter and LinkedIn.

You can also join online writer communities such as the Writer’s Guild or Freelance Writers Network.

There are also a lot of Facebook groups specifically for freelance writers that are great places to find leads as well as tips and advice from experienced professionals.

Networking with other writers is one of the best ways to learn more about the industry, find new opportunities, and get your work seen by more people.

5. Negotiate and Know Your Worth

When you’re looking to get paid to write, you want to make sure that you know your worth and negotiate for it.

This may be a little harder when you start writing because you may lack the experience or the credentials to charge premium rates.

It may make sense to start out with competitive rates and work your way up.

If you’re a professional writer and know that your work is worth a premium rate, never be afraid to ask for it or negotiate better terms.

It’s important that you value your own work and stand firm on what you think it’s worth.

6. Have a Contract in Place

Before you start any writing gig, it’s important to have a contract in place.

A good freelance contract will include the payment terms, communication expectations, submission guidelines, and other elements of the job.

You should have some kind of contract even if you’re not freelancing, but companies will often write this for you if you’re looking into a regular part-time or full-time position.

If you’re a freelancer, it may be up to you to create the contract.

Understanding the legalities behind the writing job is essential if you want to stay safe and avoid any potential issues down the road.

7. Consider Starting as a Freelancer

If you’re just starting out as a writer, it may be best to start as a freelancer.

This way, you can explore different types of writing and get experience without the commitments that come with a full-time position.

Freelance writing also gives you the flexibility to work on your own schedule and establish yourself as an expert in whatever topic or genre interests you the most.

Overall, freelance writing is one of the best ways to get started making money online through your writing.

7. Promote Your Services

Once you have some writing samples, it’s time to start promoting your writing services online.

The best way to do this is by creating a website where potential clients can view your portfolio of writing samples, read testimonials from previous clients, and contact you directly for freelance work.

You should also create social media accounts for your writing business and start building an online following by sharing useful content related to the topics you write about.

Having a presence on multiple platforms makes it easier for potential clients to find you online.

If you’re interested in longer-form writing, pitching stories to magazines is a great way to make money. Magazines are always looking for new content, so approach them with an interesting idea that you think they’d be interested in.

5 Tips on How to Make Money Writing Online

Whether you’re a freelance writer or someone looking for a full-time gig, these tips are going to be really important before you start writing or promoting your writing services.

1. Use AI Writing Tools

AI writing tools are an absolute must in the world of writing. What many people don’t understand is that they aren’t a complete replacement for professional writing.

The best way to use AI with your writing is a supplemental tool to help you generate ideas and improve your writing speed.

You will still need to add your own unique writing style and personal stories to your content to set it aside from the rest.

Jasper is our favorite AI tool for writing and what we use in our own business.

2. Focus on Quality Over Quantity

In the world of writing, it’s easy to get caught up in trying to write as much content for as many people as possible.

While this may seem like a good idea in theory, it could actually be damaging your reputation and hurting your income potential.

Instead of focusing on churning out massive amounts of content, focus on creating high-quality pieces that will impress clients and help you build a name for yourself as a professional writer.

High-quality work is more likely to be seen by more people, which can lead to better rates and increase your chances of landing bigger projects.

You’ll also find that clients are willing to pay more for top-notch work because they value quality over quantity.

This will also help you build better relationships and get repeat clients.

3. Stay Informed on Industry Trends

It’s important to stay up-to-date with the latest trends in the writing industry, as this can help you determine what type of content is popular and what opportunities that are available.

Reading industry publications and newsletters, attending writing conferences, joining webinars, or taking online courses will give you insight into what’s trending in the field.

Knowing what types of topics and content formats are popular right now can also help you come up with ideas for articles, blog posts, and other pieces that clients may be interested in.

5. Invest in Learning SEO and Marketing

As a content writer, you can usually earn a lot more with a background in SEO and/or marketing.

This will make your skills more valuable and marketable and help you land more gigs with better rates.

You can use SEO tools like Surfer SEO to optimize your content so it can be seen by more people, as well as how to create compelling copy that will drive conversions.

Investing in courses about digital marketing and SEO is a great way to learn the basics of these topics and start applying them to your work.

Google is always updating its algorithms, so it’s important to stay up-to-date with the latest trends in SEO.

5. Offer Additional Services

One way to stand out from others is by offering additional services such as editing, proofreading, SEO, or content strategy advice.

This can help you make more money as a writer and give clients another reason to hire you.

Adding extra services like this also shows clients that you’re an expert in the field and have a lot of experience.

It can be a great way to boost your income without having to take on more writing clients.

FAQs About How to Make Money Writing

There are many ways to make money writing. You can do freelance work, write for blogs or magazines, create content for websites and companies, write books, and even teach writing classes. Depending on the project, you can get paid per word or per hour. With a bit of research and dedication, anyone can start making money through writing!

Yes, it’s entirely possible to make up to $1000 a month or more with freelance writing. There are plenty of ways you can get paid for writing. You could look for remote jobs on job boards, write articles and content for websites, or start your own blog and use it as a platform to find clients. You’ll need to create a portfolio of your work and promote yourself as much as possible to gain more clients and increase your earnings. With the right skill set and dedication, you can make money writing in no time!

If you’re looking to make some money from your writing skills, there are lots of different ways to write for money. From blogging and content creation to freelance gigs and even full-time jobs – there’s no shortage of options when it comes to getting paid for writing. To get started, check out websites like Upwork , Fiverr , and Freelancer – they all offer opportunities to connect with businesses that are looking for writers to help create content.

Absolutely! Writing can be a great career option if you have the creative flair for it. Freelance writing, copywriting, and blogging are just some of the ways you can get paid to write online. You can also find traditional jobs that require writing skills in fields like journalism, marketing, and public relations. So don’t worry – there’s plenty of opportunity to earn a living from writing.

Writing is a profession like any other, and with the right skills and determination, anyone can get paid to write. In fact, while you need to have sufficient grammar skills, writing is also often a self-taught skill. From content marketers to copywriters, from freelance bloggers to ghostwriters – there are a wide variety of writing gigs that pay well if you’re willing to put in the hard work. Plus, the work is often remote and very flexible.

Yes, it is possible to make a six-figure salary as a writer. You’ll need to have the right combination of skills, connections, and determination to achieve this kind of success. You may also want to specialize in an area such as copywriting, content marketing, or SEO writing so you can charge higher rates. Having repeat clients can help you achieve this goal so that you don’t have to search for new work on a month-to-month basis.

Key Takeaways for How to Make Money Writing

No matter which type of online writing job you’re considering, there are plenty of ways to get paid to write from the comfort of your own home.

Whether it’s blogging, copywriting, SEO writing, or something else entirely, you’ll find that there are plenty of opportunities out there for you to earn a living writing.

One of the best ways for new writers to get started is to try freelancing to get some experience and build up a portfolio of samples.

As an experienced writer, you can easily earn a full-time income online.

Check job boards regularly for openings and network whenever possible.

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10 Ways Students can make Money with Essay Writing

Make money with essay writing.

There are plenty of ways to earn money as a freelance writer if you’re a student.

You can get paid to write essays for other students or write essays for money for many other online publications.

Here are some options to help you get started with essay writing. 

1. Write college papers for money

There are high-quality academic websites where you can write papers for money.

You will need to fill out an application, take a test, and upload samples of your work. If you’re accepted, you can bid for jobs.

You may have to write custom essays, research papers or even help a student with homework.

You will earn about $10 a page and more on work with a tight deadline.

2. Write a first-person narrative

Vox is a well-known general interest publication that’s looking for first-person narratives.

Read their submission guidelines and email the editor with your pitch.

The publication covers a wide range of topics, such as health, science, culture and politics.

All the accepted stories are edited and paid at competitive rates. 

3. Write nonfiction

The American Scholar is a quarterly magazine that will consider publishing nonfiction by known and unknown writers. Submissions should be no longer than 6,000 words and be submitted through the online submissions manager system.

You can upload your essay and check its status online. Submissions are carefully reviewed, and it may take several months to get a response.

Payment is up to $500 for accepted pieces and $250 for web-only pieces. 

4. Pay for essays

If you are a student who can’t even think about writing papers for money because you don’t have enough time to write your own, you can use a perfect essay writer at an essay writing service.

You can pay for essay on EduBirdie, and you will receive a quality essay from professional writers who are thoroughly screened to make sure they have the right educational background and experience to help you.

And with time, you can enroll yourself on this number one site to make money by helping others do their assignments.

5. Write stories and articles

The Threepenny Review is open for submissions from January through June.

Response times for submission can range from two days to two months.

Critical articles should be about 1200 to 2500 words, and stories about 4000 words or less.

You can make money writing essays, short stories and articles.

They pay $400 per story or article. 

6. Write about women’s issues

The goal of the Women’s Media Center is to increase the influence of women in the media.

They want stories and commentaries that offer a feminist perspective on news events and stories about women in the media industry.

You can write essays about women and work, the environment, human rights, choice, and women as leaders and peacemakers.

7. Write fantasy and science fiction

Fantasy & Science Fiction is a science fiction print journal that’s been around forever.

It has a large readership and wants stories with surprising ideas, plots or character insights.

You can submit your entire manuscript.

It publishes fiction of up to 25,000 words in length, and you should allow eight weeks for a response.

Payment is 8-12 cents per word on acceptance. 

8. Write narrative nonfiction

Narratively wants personal essays that show readers what makes your life interesting or different.

Your storytelling must be immersive and take readers into another world or another life using vivid scenes and colorful details.

You can submit a pitch or a completed essay for consideration and earn up to $300 for a 2,500-word essay.

9. Write essays about the Christian faith

If you are a Christian, writing essays for money online is possible on Guideposts .

It publishes true stories about people who have learned a lesson or overcome a challenge through their faith.

Write a first-person narrative with a spiritual point that readers can apply in their lives and submit for publication.

Payment for essays is up to $250.

10. Write for a legit essay writing service

Make sure you choose a legit essay writing service if you want to write essays for college students.

You will need to consider the company’s background, how long it has been around, whether it’s reliable, and what you will get paid.

Check what kind of online reviews the company has. 

As a student, you can make money by writing essays in just about any niche.

You may decide to write essays for other students or for various publications.

You need to know where to look to pitch an editor and how to write essays for money.

Hopefully, the above suggestions will give you some ideas about where to begin. 

© Be Your Maverick

COACHING + PUBLISHING

FORMATTING + DESIGN

FREELANCE COMMUNITY

• Make Money Writing: The Monster List of 115 Markets

The Monster List Table of Contents

1. alaska business monthly, 2. bcbusiness, 3. b. michelle pippin, 4. freelance mom, christian markets, 6. america magazine, 7. the christian century, 8. guideposts, 9. relevant, 10. today’s christian living, 11. business insider, 12. the guardian, 13. the ken, 14. smartbusinesstrends, 15. practicalecommerce, lifestyle & social impact, 16. audubon, 17. earth island journal, 18. hakai magazine, 20. upworthy, 21. the atlantic, 24. the economist, personal finance, 26. elitepersonalfinance, 27. first quarter finance, 28. investopedia, 29. money crashers, 30. the motley fool, 31. backpacker, 32. backroads, 33. desertusa, 34. escapees magazine, 35. international living, writing & freelancing, 36. copyhackers, 37. freedom with writing.

• 38. FreelanceMom

39. Make a Living Writing

40. writersweekly, 41. cannabis now, 42. green entrepreneur, 44. maximum yield, digital magazines, 46. early american life, 47. foreign policy, 48. high country news, 49. hoofbeats, 50. smithsonian mag, digital magazines: stories and essays, 51. the american scholar, 52. boston globe mag, 53. buzzfeed news, 54. longreads, 55. the sun, digital magazines: women, 56. cosmopolitan, 57. glamour mag, 58. good housekeeping, 59. liisbeth, 60. oprah mag, entertainment, 61. american theatre, 62. the a.v. club, 63. deadspin, 64. the root, 65. the smart set, guest blogging, 67. howlround, 68. incomediary, 69. iworkwell, 70. penny hoarder, health and wellness, 71. climbing, 72. eating well, 73. experience life, 74. idea fitness journal, 75. vibrant life, home & garden, 76. american gardener, 77. architectural digest, 79. fine gardening, 80. hobby farms, 81. country, 82. funds for writers, 83. mother.ly, 84. the new yorker, 85. reader’s digest, 86. better programming, 87. creative cafã©, 88. elemental, 90. writing cooperative, 91. additude magazine, 92. adoptive families, 93. fatherly, 94. grown and flown, 95. working mother, 96. the american journal of nursing, 97. arts & letters, 98. cricket media.

• 99. 50 Haikus

100. Poetry Magazine

101. the american conservative, 102. lifezette, 103. the nation, 104. the progressive, 105. washington monthly, 106. bee culture, 107. mother earth news, 108. new scientist, 109. science magazine, 110. sky & telescope, 111. godaddy blog, 112. pixlr blog, 113. sitepoint, 114. smashing magazine, 115. the verge, start pitching to land new work in 2022.

Ready to make money writing in 2022?

While 2021 was a rough year, there are still plenty of opportunities for freelance writers in the year ahead.

And if you’re looking to get off to a productive start in 2022, we’ve got you covered. This monster list includes 115 markets spanning more than 20 industries. So there’s something for just about everyone!

You’ll find a wide range of places to pitch to help you make money writing, including:

• Content writing and guest blogging opportunities for new writers and pros breaking into different niches.
• Print and web-based writing jobs for writers of all levels , from those still building portfolios to writers with substantial experience or expertise in specific industries.
• Pro-rate gigs at top publishers , like glossy magazines and popular news and lifestyle sites geared toward mid-career and seasoned writers.

We focused on gigs that offer competitive rates – the top five in each niche – and we’ve updated the pay and editor contact information for each market. That way, you’ll have a good idea of what to expect before getting started on your pitch.

• Digital Magazines: Stories & Essays
• Health & Wellness

Alaska Business Monthly covers everything related to business in the state of Alaska, including online retail.

• Stories focus on analyzing issues and trends affecting local businesses.
• The editors also like to feature articles about innovative local individuals and companies.

Note that while this publication does accept unsolicited pitches, they more commonly assign specific pieces to freelancers.  

Contact: Email managing Editor Kathryn Mackenzie .  

Rate:  $0.20/word.  

Interested in writing assignments about issues affecting business and e-commerce in the areas of Vancouver and British Columbia, Canada? Consider pitching BCBusiness. The magazine publishes feature stories that impact the lives of its readers. Your best bet: pitch ideas on issues and trends defining industries in this part of the country.  

Contact:   Editor Nick Rockel .  

Rate:  $0.56-$0.75/word.

Michelle Pippin is a business blog for women that focuses on topics like marketing effectively, enhancing productivity, scoring speaking gigs, and overcoming business-related challenges. If you have firsthand experience in one of those areas, reach out and pitch an original, instructive story idea.  

Contact:  Send a message to editor  Michelle Pippin  on LinkedIn.  

Rate:  $50-$150 per post.

Lisa Stern runs the Freelance Mom website designed to help moms build a freelance business to make money from home. Blog posts include a mix of personal experience and how-to guides to teach moms how to run a freelance business. Plus, every post includes a 20 to 30-minute action plan to help moms take the next step, instead of the classic, “I’ll do it tomorrow,” (which really means never) response.  

Contact: Send pitches to Lisa Stein at  [email protected] .  

Rate: $75 to $100 per assignment, plus potential $150 bonus for traffic.

Inc.  is a very popular business pub geared toward owners and managers of small companies. Over the past decade, their readership has more than doubled, and they now reach an audience of over 25 million.

It’s not easy to get your work published by  Inc. , but it’s possible. This publication doesn’t accept one-off pitches; instead, like some of the other markets on our list, they prefer to establish ongoing relationships with contributors. If you’re willing to contribute for at least six months, review their guidelines and send an email with a sample article and your answers to their list of questions.  

Contact:  Contact editor Lindsay Blakely by  email  or on  LinkedIn .  

Rate:  Pay can reportedly go up to $0.33 per word but is partially dependent on ad revenue.

America Magazine  is a weekly print publication that also features online content. They focus on providing a Catholic perspective on faith and culture topics, including political, economic, and social issues. This outlet accepts pitches for feature-length articles (2,500 words or less), personal essays (up to 1,500 words), and shorter opinion essays. They also publish  poetry .  

Contact:  Read the submission guidelines and submit your query on the  submission page .  

Rate:  Competitive;  reportedly  $0.25/word and up.

The Christian Century  is a biweekly ecumenical magazine that primarily covers topics relating to theology, human rights, poverty, international relations, and economic justice. Content is published in print and online.

The editors emphasize that their content is geared toward a progressive Christian audience that seeks in-depth analysis and critical perspectives.  

Contact:  Tweet managing editor  Steve Thorngate .  

Rate:  $100-$300 per 1,500-3,000-word article.

Guideposts  is a widely read bi-monthly Christian magazine published in print and digital formats. Their goal is to help readers solve difficult personal problems, build meaningful relationships and find peace of mind. They look for true, first-person stories about people who have overcome an obstacle, reached an important goal or learned an applicable lesson through their faith.  

Contact:  Reach out to editor-in-chief  Edward Grinnan  and submit a story via their  online form .  

Rate:  $100-$500.

Relevant  runs a bi-monthly magazine as well as a website, relevantmagazine.com, which features daily articles. The content is geared toward millennial audiences, and topics include faith, lifestyle, national and global issues, culture, and justice. Relevant  doesn’t currently pay for articles that appear on their website, but they do pay for stories published in their magazine.  

Contact:  Email senior editor  Tyler Huckabee .  

Rate:  $100-$400 for print features.

Today’s Christian Living  is a bimonthly print and digital magazine geared toward a general Christian audience. The focus is on providing articles that encourage readers to fulfill their God-given calling. They publish personality and ministry profiles, personal stories, inspirational pieces, and short humorous anecdotes.

Note that this mag prefers to receive manuscripts as attachments rather than queries.  

Contact:  Email editor  Dan Brownell .  

Rate:  $25-$150.

Got your pulse on e-commerce-related news? Check out  Business Insider .

This is a U.S business site with a focus on e-commerce as well as finance, tech, and other U.S industries. It’s the largest website of its kind on the internet today and frequently relies on contributions from freelancers who specialize in business writing.

Their editors are especially interested in pitches for:

• Reported features
• Personal essays

Do your homework, and make sure your ideas are different from what they’ve already published.  

Contact:  Email editor Alyse Kalish .  

Rate:  Varies; typically in the range of $0.20-$0.35/word.  

The Guardian is a British-based publication. But this pub covers American and international news and attracts a diverse global readership. It includes an e-commerce section that’s dedicated to covering current events related to:

• Online retail
• Cryptocurrency
• And other topics of relevance

Tip: Demonstrate personal or professional expertise on the topic you want to write about to increase the chances of your pitch being accepted.  

Contact:  View The Guardian’s U.S editorial team  here .  

Pay:  $300/1,000 words.

If you’re knowledgeable about the online retail sector in India and Southeast Asia, pitch The Ken. This publication has over 15,000 paying subscribers and publishes one new story per day.

Want a business writing assignment for The Ken? They’re looking for freelance journalists and subject matter experts to pitch reported stories that are fact-based and analytical.  

Contact:  Email commissioning editor  Durga M. Sengupta .  

Rate: $0.25/edited word or $50/chart for data stories.

Virtually every e-commerce business needs to be able to market effectively online. That’s the angle of SmartBusinessTrends. This blog regularly accepts contributions from freelance writers who are able to write:

• Informative articles
• Product reviews
• Case studies of use to their readers

Tip: In order for your pitch to be accepted by this blog, you’ll need to have relevant experience or expertise in the topic you want to write about.  

Contact:  Reach out to editor Chris Fong  here or via Twitter .  

Rate:  $200-$500 per article.

PracticalEcommerce provides expert advice, instruction, and insight to help small and mid-sized e-commerce companies grow and succeed. Their editorial policies differ from some publications, though. How? They don’t publish unsolicited pieces. Instead, they rely on a pool of regular contributors who can create content designed to genuinely help their readers.

Tip: Look over their website. If you have a suitable topic or idea to offer, pitch the editor.  

Contact:  Email editor  Kerry Murdock .  

Rate:  Determined by the editor.

Birders with a passion for protecting wild birds and their habitats should consider pitching Audubon. Send your ideas for stories on birdlife and conservation in a well-crafted query of 500 words or less.  

Contact: Email features editor Alisa Opar or locate the right section editor for your pitch here .  

Rate: As much as $0.40 per word.

Earth Island Journal publishes a blog that focuses on environmental issues pertaining to an international audience, such as wildlife and land conservation, climate and energy, and environmental protection policies.

For the best chance of having your story idea accepted, pitch a newsworthy, relevant topic that’s been overlooked by other outlets.

Contact:  Email managing editor  Zoe Loftus-Farren  or reach out on  LinkedIn .  

Rate:  $0.25/word for print features; $100 for online reports.

Hakai uses short- and long-form journalism to report on coastal ecosystems. This magazine publishes work from freelance writers in two different sections; News & Views (300-800 words) and Features (1,000-1,500 words).

Contact: Senior Editor Shanna Baker  or Managing Editor  Adrienne Mason  on Twitter.

Rate: As much as $1.05 a word.  

Truity is a hugely popular blog about personality types and personality psychology. They look for passionate writers who can create high-quality content about topics like Myers Briggs, the Enneagram, and Jung’s typology.

Contact:  Reach out to CEO and publisher Molly Owens on LinkedIn or complete an  application  to write for Truity.

Rate:  $100-$150 per post.

The Upworthy blog focuses on making a positive social impact. Stories should be “surprising, meaningful, shareable, and visual.” Review their content to get a better sense of what kinds of pieces are successful.

Contact:  Complete the  pitch form  or reach out to editor  Annie Reneau .

Rate:  $0.23-$0.35 per word.

The Atlantic  is a popular digital magazine that covers news, politics, culture, science and health, tech, and more. They frequently publish high-quality feature stories from experienced writers.

Contact:  Email Deputy Editor  Ross Andersen  or submit your pitch to the appropriate news desk .

Rate:  Up to $0.65/word.

22. Business Insider

Got your pulse on business news? Check out  Business Insider . This is a U.S-based site with a focus on e-commerce as well as finance, global tech, media, markets, and healthcare. It’s the largest website of its kind on the internet today and frequently relies on contributions from freelancers who specialize in business writing.

Do your homework, and make sure your ideas are different from what they’ve already published.

Contact:  Email editor Alyse Kalish to pitch a reported feature. To pitch a first-person narrative or write as a contributor, contact editor Laura Casado .

Rate:  Varies; typically in the range of $0.20-$0.35/word.

23. Christian Science Monitor

The Christian Science Monitor is an independent, international news publication. It covers a range of topics, including the economy and e-commerce, science and nature, culture, and U.S and global news.

Write on spec . That’s how they do it at the Christian Science Monitor. It means they want to see the fully-written story before they decide whether or not to accept it.

Contact:  Review the  newsroom directory  and/or  editorial leadership  guide, and pitch the appropriate editor based on the topic you’re interested in writing about.

Rate:  $0.25-$0.40/word.

The Economist  is a weekly magazine that’s published in both print and digital formats. It’s been around for a long time (since 1843!) and today reaches a global audience. It features stories about global news topics, politics, business, and the economy. Its sister publication, aptly named  1843 , also  accepts freelance pieces  of narrative journalism.

When crafting your pitch, plan to write not only about something current and relevant but also to explain the importance of the topic by providing analysis and context.  

Contact:  Email finance editor  Rachana Shanbhogue  or send a message on  LinkedIn .

Rate:  Pay rates vary widely, ranging from $0.20/word to more than $1 per word, depending on the content and your level of experience.

Getting an article into  Forbes  magazine is a huge accomplishment for any writer (Carol would know!).

But if you’re an experienced freelancer with relevant knowledge and business news writing experience, you might have a shot at writing for money for this pub.

On occasion,  Forbes  also hires experienced news writers to work on a contract basis, and the role is typically remote. You can keep an eye on their job openings for writers  here .  

Contact:  Reach out to managing editor Joyce Bautista Ferrari by email or on LinkedIn .

Rate:  $100+ per published digital article.

ElitePersonalFinance features a website and blog that offers actionable advice on topics like:

• Building credit
• Securing loans
• Preventing identity theft (with a focus on millennial readers. They spend over $100,000 each year on high-quality content.)

Pitch a 1,000-3,000-word post on one of the topics defined in their guidelines. Once you’re in, you might even be able to secure regular, ongoing work.

Contact:  Reach out on  Facebook  or send your pitch by  email .

Rate:  Up to $300 per published article.

First Quarter Finance exists to provide readers with helpful advice related to earning, investing, spending, and saving money. They don’t accept one-off pitches. Instead, they strive to establish long-term relationships with reliable freelance writers. If you secure this gig, you can expect to receive one assignment per week on an ongoing basis.

Contact:  Submit an application for this gig here .

Rate:  Averages $80.00 per article.

Investopedia has been a popular personal finance hub on the web for over 20 years. Their goal is to help readers feel more confident when managing money and investments by simplifying complex financial information.

If you’re interested in writing consistently for money opportunities with Investopedia, you’ll need to apply to become a contributor. Be sure to include your credentials and clips related to one of the topics they cover.

Contact:  View Investopedia’s contributor openings and submit an application  here . You can also send a message to Personal Finance Editor  Julia Kagan .

Rate:  While Investopedia doesn’t publish their rates, they do state that their pay is competitive. One freelance writer for the company reported earnings of over $50,000 per year (Glassdoor, 2015).

Money Crashers is a well-known personal finance website that covers topics like:

• Money management
• Estate planning
• Tax preparation

Writing for money opportunities? They regularly hire writers to contribute engaging, high-quality posts related to these issues, and they often like to publish longer, detailed articles of around 3,000 words. Instead of submitting a pitch, you’ll need to fill out an application and provide links to writing samples.

Contact:  Submit a contributor application  here  or reach out to editor  Kelly Gurnett .

Rate:  Competitive.

The Motley Fool regularly seeks out writers to contribute content to their network of websites. Instead of pitches, they’re looking for writers who are flexible and able to cover a variety of finance topics regularly. To write for The Motley Fool, you’ll need to fill out a short application and provide links to three writing samples.

Contact:  Fill out the  writer application  or send a message to  Editor Michael Douglass .

Rate:  Typically $140 for published articles.

Backpacker  is a bimonthly print and digital magazine focused on foot-based travel-primarily hiking-throughout North America. About 50 percent of the stories in this pub are written by freelancers, which means there may be opportunities for you.

Your pitch will have the best chance of being accepted if you’re willing to start off by writing a short assignment for the pages in the departments section. Plan to write an impactful story with a valuable take-away for the reader.

Contact:  Reach out to editor Shannon Davis on LinkedIn or send your pitch by email .

Rate:  Varies; reportedly $0.25-$0.50/word depending on the section.

Backroads USA  is a monthly publication with a focus on providing motorcycle touring-related guides, tips, and information. The editors look for articles about unique or obscure roadside attractions or eateries and interesting destinations. Note that all feature articles submitted to this pub must be accompanied by high-quality photographs.

Contact:  Email the  editor .

Rate:  $75 and up.

Interested in writing about topics related to the North American desert or surrounding regions? Consider pitching DesertUSA. This digital resource features a blog that includes articles about travel, Native American culture, regional history and geology, and southwestern arts and crafts. Note that all writers for this blog are required to provide digital images along with their stories.

Contact:  Email  or  Tweet  publisher Jim Bremner.

Rate:  $50 per article.

Escapees  is a bimonthly magazine geared toward RVers who enjoy traveling and exploring. They seek general interest RV-related topics, how-to articles, photo features, profiles, and other travel features. All freelance submissions will need to include photos, and stories should be written in a conversational tone. High-quality technical and informational articles are especially needed.

Contact:  Email assistant editor  Kelly Evans-Hill .

Rate:  Typically $100-$200 for feature stories.

International Living  offers both a blog and a magazine geared toward helping people retire affordably by living abroad. They need interviews, reviews of relevant new products, how-to guides, and travel features.

Contact:  Email editorial director  Eoin Bassett  to pitch a print article or contact digital editor  Annie Hannon  to pitch a blog post.

Rate:  $250-$400 for print articles; usually about $0.10 per word for blog/website articles.

The Copyhackers blog is geared toward helping copywriters and marketers achieve success and upward mobility in their careers. It features stories about topics like conversion copywriting, freelancing for hire, and product marketing.

It’s not easy to get your pitch accepted by Copyhackers. They only accept 1 in 30 pitches and only publish a third of those. But if your article is published, you’ll be compensated quite well.

Contact:  Email your pitch to the  content strategist  or contact founder and editor  Joanna Wiebe .

Rate:  $300-$1,000 per post.

Wanna help other freelancers get paid for their writing? If you have useful advice to share, pitch this blog. They’re looking for how-to guides, essays, and case studies. They also occasionally publish eBooks.

Contact:  Email  editor Jacob Jans .

Rate:  Up to $150 for articles; $500+ for eBooks.

  38. FreelanceMom

FreelanceMom is a popular website for moms who work as freelancers and solopreneurs. In fact, it made the top five in two of our niches! The editor is looking for writers who can provide original blog posts offering in-depth, actionable advice for readers. Pitch an article that is deeply personal, well-researched, or education-based.

Contact:  Email  Editor Lisa Stein .

Rate:  $75-100 per post.

Did you know our blog pays writers for guest posts about the business and craft of freelance writing? If you’re a current or former Freelance Writer’s Den member, or if you’ve graduated from Jon Morrow’s blog mentoring program, submit an idea! On occasion, founder Carol Tice offers open pitch windows, where anyone who subscribes to the blog can query.

Note that almost all pitches accepted are from subscribers of our blog.  

Contact:  Email our editor .

Rate: $150+ per post.

Writers Weekly is geared toward helping writers earn money from their craft. They publish stories covering topics like self-publishing, corporate writing, and marketing tips for freelance writers.

Contact:  Email publisher  Angela Hoy  or submit your pitch through the contact form after reading the writer’s guidelines .

Rate:  $60 per 600-word article.

Cannabis Now  is one of just a handful of specialty magazines about the cannabis industry sold in major bookstores, airports, and grocery-store chains. It’s garnered a massive following of readers and subscribers in just eight years, and it’s a great place to land freelance writing jobs in this niche.

Contact: Senior Editor Ellen Holland on  Twitter .

Rate: Competitive rates per assignment.

Entrepreneur  magazine launched  GreenEntrepreneur.com , to give readers the latest news in cannabis. Land freelance writing jobs for this pub by pitching stories about entrepreneurship, business, technology, and lifestyle to get into this pub.

Contact: Executive Editor Jonathan Small on  Twitter .

Rate:  Up to $1.50 per word, based on assignment.

Leafly started out as a resource for medical marijuana patients and focused on the different strains available to treat various health conditions. But it’s evolved since then to serve a larger audience of recreational marijuana users, too.

Want to land freelance writing jobs for Leafly? Include a brief description of your proposed story for the news section, a tentative word count, and relevant clips in your pitch. Send to  [email protected] .

Contact: Editor Janessa Bailey on  LinkedIn .

Rate:  Based on assignment.

Maximum Yield is a trade pub for the cannabis industry. This pub hires freelancers for pieces on the equipment and technology used to grow and harvest the plant.

Contact: Editor-in-Chief Toby Gorman on  LinkedIn .

Rate: Honorarium per assignment.

An estimated 3.5 million people have prescriptions to use marijuana for medicinal purposes in the U.S. And that’s the market Nugg serves, connecting patients with dispensaries and even facilitating doctor-patient telemedicine calls via NuggMD.

Contact: Alex Milligan, co-founder and marketing director:  [email protected] .

Rate:  $0.07 to $0.10 per word based on assignment.

New writers looking for freelance gigs on American life from colonial times to the mid-1800s should to submit queries to this magazine. Topics related to antiques, architecture and decorating, history, studio crafts, and travel are welcome.

Contact:   Email  editor JeanMarie Andrews or reach out on LinkedIn .

Rate: Estimated $500 for new writers.

Foreign Policy commissions freelancers for stories with a unique angle on politics, culture, and world events. Do some original reporting, then pitch a topic that will challenge readers.

Contact: Editor-in-chief Ravi Agrawal or reach out on Twitter .

Rate: Average $0.45 a word.

A monthly magazine with a digital version, High Country News pays freelancers for stories and essays on the modern American West.

Contact: Email pitches to Bear Guerra .

Rate: Varies. Between $0.50 and $1.50 a word for stories, up to $400 for essays.

About 70 percent of Hoofbeats content comes from assigned freelance pieces. Send your ideas on Standardbreds and harness racing along with samples to  [email protected] .

Contact: Email editor Kathy Parker .

Rate: $100 to $500 for features.

Unsolicited proposals are accepted by Smithsonian Magazine from experienced freelancers pitching stories on art, history, science & innovation, and travel. Use the submission form to query the  print magazine  or the  website .

Contact: Print Executive Editor  Terence Monmaney  or Digital Editorial Editor Brian Wolly  on Twitter.

Rate: Varies. Reported at $0.36 a word or as much as $3.50 a word for print.

The magazine of the Phi Beta Kappa Society accepts nonfiction submissions from new and established writers.

Contact: Editor Robert Wilson via  email  or through the link on  Submittable .

Rate: $100+ per article.  

New freelance writers can contribute to the Perspectives and Connections columns of Boston Globe Magazine .

Contact: Editor  Veronica Chao  on Twitter.

Rate: About $0.78 a word.  

Pitch long-form personal essays and cultural criticism that wows to BuzzFeed Reader.

Contact: Send your pitch via email or contact editor Samantha Henig  on Twitter.

Rate: About $0.50 a word.  

Longreads publishes personal essays and narratives, long-form journalism, features, investigative projects, and even book excerpts. There are various editors to pitch, so check the guidelines for names and contact information.

Contact: Senior Editor Cheri Lucas Rowlands is on  LinkedIn .

Rate: $0.23 a word for articles, $500 for personal and critical essays.

Send daring personal essays, fiction, and poetry to this ad-free magazine to land freelance writing jobs. You can pitch editors Sy Safransky or David Mahaffey by submitting online.

Contact: Associate Editor Finn Cohen is on  Twitter .

Rate: Varies. As much as $2,000 for long-form essays.

Cosmo has an annual readership of 16 million across the US and Western Canada. They hire freelancers for both print and digital content in alignment with their brand, which is focused on the empowerment of young women.

Contact: Contact managing editor Alie Martell on Twitter .

Rate: Average $100 for online content, $200-400 for print.  

Into women’s style, beauty, entertainment, wellness, or culture? Pitch Glamour! And if you know anyone that makes skin, body, or hair care products, or makeup, tell them about Glamour’s  upcoming  2022 Beauty Awards.

Contact: Digital Editor Perrie Samotin on  Twitter .

Rate: $0.27 a word reported.

The majority of GH’s 25 million readers are women who are married, have children, and work outside the home. This mag pays for short narratives on “blessings” and overcoming health challenges.

Contact: Digital Director Lauren Matthews on  Twitter .

Rate: As much as $0.67 a word.  

LiisBeth publishes content focused on feminist entrepreneurs, creators, and leaders committed to gender equality. Writers of all gender expressions can email pitches to Margaret Webb.

Contact: Email editor Lana Pesch using the subject line “QUERY.”

Rates: $250 for personal essays to $800+ for policy/issue analysis.  

Oprah Magazine launched a new digital version in 2020 to continue inspiring women to live their best lives – online.

Contact: Reach out to digital director Arianna Davis on  Twitter or email the editorial team.

Rates: The print version has paid $2 a word, but expect less for digital.

The only general-circulation pub for the theatre, this magazine was founded in 1984 by the Theatre Communications Group. Covering stage artists, theatrical events and trends, and the impact of financial and legal issues on the arts, the mag’s main audience is professional, not-for-profit theatres including notable international venues.

Contact:   Rob Weinert-Kendt , editor-in-chief, by email.

Rate: $0.25 a word.

The A.V. Club is owned by the media group that puts out  The Onion . However, they publish  true  entertainment content including interviews, reviews, features, and other entertainment-related articles. They accept freelance submissions and occasionally have staff writing positions .

Contact: Reach out to editorial coordinator Gwen Inhat on LinkedIn.

Rate: Average $0.21 a word reported.

Sports fans, get cracking on your pitch to Deadspin. This pub offers in-depth guidance  on how to pitch them with real examples from writers they’ve published. They even consider non-sports stories with relevance to their readers, like this example  of Native American lacrosse players who were suspended after reporting racial abuse. Make sure to also check out our full guide to  sports writing jobs .

Contact: Find Managing Editor Chris Baud on LinkedIn .

Rate: Average $0.11 a word, as high as $0.17.  

If you want to get paid to write “meaningful stories that move the needle on issues surrounding race,” consider pitching to The Root. Content reflects original thought on the intersection of blackness and society. The It’s Lit! section explores books by African American and Black authors, and The Glow Up covers lifestyle and entertainment.

Contact: Editor-in-Chief Danielle Belton on  Twitter .

Rate: $0.20 a word.

The Smart Set covers a ton of lifestyle topics including the arts, literature, sports, shopping, and food. Freelance submissions are considered in the form of:

• Critical essays
• Cultural critiques and analyses
• Scholarly articles
• Food and travel writing
• Personal essays and memoirs
• Television reviews and unpublished excerpts  

Contact: Email pitches to Editor Melinda Lewis  at  [email protected] .

Rate: $0.20 a word reported.

66. Her Money

Her Money is a personal finance website written by and for women. Welcoming to readers of all gender expression, but especially female-identified individuals, the mag is particularly concerned about the gender wage gap. Got an idea for smart, empowering content? Pitch Her Money.

Contact: Submit a pitch through the editor’s link on the Contact Page or reach out to senior writer/editor Dayana Yochim  via Twitter or email editor-in-chief Kathryn Tuggle .

Rate: Varies.  

Are you a theatremaker with a penchant for revolution? Write about the intersection of theatre-making and social justice for HowlRound. You can write pieces for the Journal, participate in a variety of online media events, or propose other content for publication.

Contact: Submit a pitch here or email editor Ashley Malafronte .

Rate: $200 per article.  

ID is a marketing blog that puts out content on making money online. They solicit freelance pieces from experts in content creation, driving traffic, entrepreneurship, SEO, and website design. You can sign up to be notified of specific paid opportunities to freelance for them. Submit your pitch and quote via their online form .

Contact: Editor Barry Dunlop on LinkedIn .

Rate: For in-depth and well-written articles, IncomeDiary pays anywhere from $200-$500.  

This members-only site offers HR professionals information, tools, and resources to carry out strategic plans and improve day-to-day operations. And they pay their contributing writers ! Freelancers write original pieces and revise existing content, too.  

Contact: Follow the guidelines and  apply  to be one of their subject matter experts.

Rate: $200+ per article.  

Penny Hoarder CEO Kyle Taylor is on a mission to help everyday people enjoy their lives more by worrying about their finances less . As such, the content of the site offers actionable advice on making, managing, and saving money through a blend of journalism and creative storytelling.

Contact: Reach out to managing editor John Schlander  via Twitter. Submissions accepted online.

Rate: Varies, reportedly $0.09 a word.

Published six times a year, Climbing is looking for feature writing and photography around the hobby of climbing, lifestyle, and wellness. Make sure to look at all departments before pitching.

Contact: Editor Matt Samet on LinkedIn .

Rate: $0.35 a word.

Reported in a journalistic style, Eating Well’s science-based content covers all aspects of healthy eating: food originals and social networks; eating culture, traditions, and recipes; and of course, nutrition. There are various section editors, so check the guidelines for names and contact information.

Contact: Editor-in-Chief Jessie Price on  Twitter .

Rate: $1.00 a word.  

This membership magazine publishes 10 times a year with a circulation of 700,000. It features articles on healthy living and fitness in both print and digital formats. Editors consider their pub a “Healthy Way of Life” magazine.

Contact: Deputy editor Michael Dregni by  email .

Rate: $1 a word.  

This trade magazine is published by the IDEA Health and Fitness Association. The target audience is fitness and health professionals. Recent articles covered online personal training, goal-setting strategies, exercise for older clients, and digital tools for fitness professionals.

Contact: Editor-in-Chief Sandy Todd Webster by  email .

Rate: Based on assignment.  

Vibrant Life is looking for positive, beneficial stories on all aspects of health and wellness, from physical and mental health to spiritual wellbeing.

Contact: Submit completed articles via  email  to editor Heather Quintana or reach out on LinkedIn .

Rate: Ranges from $100-$300 per article.

Recently featured in the  Writer’s Digest , American Gardener is a publication of the  American Horticulture Society . From plant hunting, horticultural therapy, and “appropriate” gardening, to plant lore and literature, there are ample opportunities to freelance for this pub dedicated to environmentally responsible gardening.

Contact: Editor David Ellis on LinkedIn .

Rate: $300 to $600 for features and $150 to $200 for departments.  

If you have a story on “the next best thing” in international design, pitch AD! Be sure that you have a unique point of view and amazing photos before sending your pitch to have a shot with this iconic mag.

Contact: Find Features Director Samuel Cochran on LinkedIn .

Rate: Anywhere from $0.56 to $1.00 a word.  

Dwell offers multiple options for freelance content, so check the guidelines for specific submission info. They’re looking for stories about modern home design, budget breakdowns, and lessons learned, among others.

Contact: Find editor-in-chief William Hanley on LinkedIn .

Write about all aspects of garden care in your region of the US or Canada for Fine Gardening. Owned by Taunton Press , this mag also puts out three other pubs devoted to woodworking, homebuilding, and sewing.

Contact: Find editor Danielle Sherry on LinkedIn .

Rate: Pays between $100 to $200 per page for feature articles, and $35 to $400 for department pieces depending upon length and complexity.  

Into urban farming or part of a generational farming legacy? Provide tips for small-scale farmers and those just getting started by pitching Hobby Farms.

Contact: Reach out to editor Roger Sipe on Twitter or LinkedIn .

Rate: $300 and up for features.

Do you live on a farm? Out in the country? Or leave the city or suburbs every chance you get for a taste of country life? Write about it for  Country , a custom mag published by RDA Enthusiast Brands. You can find links pertaining to submission guidelines, the list of desired topics, and the media kit here .

Contact: Pitch  Copy Chief Deb Mulvey .

Rate:  Up to $250 per assignment.  

Making money writing isn’t always easy, but it’s possible when you learn the business and craft of freelancing<. Funds for Writers founder C. Hope Clark accepts guest posts for the site about how to make money writing. Review the guidelines, and don’t overlook the last line for tips on what can help land you an assignment: “a dash of humor, if possible; a positive note and a happy ending.”

Contact: Send manuscripts without attachments to  [email protected] .

Rate: Pays $50 per assignment.

Parenting isn’t exactly a cakewalk. If you can serve up parenting advice with a dose of humor, pitch a personal narrative or essay to Mother.ly. Like it or not, this pub prefers writers pitch via  Submittable . They are currently looking for inspiring essays and expert pieces.

Contact: Editorial director Shannon Vestal Robson on LinkedIn .

Rate: $50 and up per assignment.

Want to combine humor writing and fiction, but not ready to commit to crafting a full-length novel? Check out  Shouts & Murmurs  in  The New Yorker  magazine.

This isn’t essay writing. It’s pure fiction and satire like “ Shakespeare, Off the Cuff ,” “ Trump I.Q Test ,” “ Family Vacation Breakdown ,” and many others. Study published Shouts & Murmurs articles, and start thinking like the editors by following  Daily Shouts before submitting.

Contact: Send pdf submissions by  email .

Rate:  Depends on assignment.  

If you haven’t looked at a copy of  Reader’s Digest  recently, it’s not the same magazine it was when it launched way back in 1920. It’s still half the size of the typical magazine, but it’s been redesigned to keep up with competing pubs in the general interest and lifestyle niche. One regular feature includes jokes, gags, quotes and funny stories written by freelancers.

Contact: Summit queries via email to  [email protected]  with your category of interest in the subject line.

Rate:  $25 to $100 per assignment.

This programming pub was the fastest growing on Medium in 2019 – hitting 5 million monthly pageviews in record time. They’re looking for tutorials, think pieces, and advice to help programmers learn and improve in their field.

Contact: Fill out the pitch submission form .

Rate: Partner Program. Pay will vary.  

The Creative Cafe welcomes all creative writers to share their passions and words. This pub can be a great starting point for newer writers who just want to see their words on the web. But well-done pieces that get views will be paid through the partner program.

Contact: Visit the website during the first week of the month and fill out the new contributor request form .

Elemental offers readers information and opinions on health and wellness, as long as it’s backed by science. From coronavirus to meditation, all things for the mind and body can be found here.

Contact: Pitch executive editor Sarah Collins on Twitter .

Rate: $0.83 to $1.00 per word.  

Gen is one of the largest publications on Medium. Editors  here are looking for articles on culture, power, and politics.

Contact:  Send pitches to  [email protected] , or track down Editor-in-Chief Kate Green Tripp on Twitter .

Rate: $0.83 to $1.00 per word.

This pub is all about writing! Assigning freelance writing pieces on topics from getting started to publishing, this community of writers gives advice and lessons learned.

Contact: All requests to contribute must be submitted through this form to be considered.

Rate: Partner program. Pay will vary

About 11 percent of kids (6.4 million) have attention deficit, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Managing editor Wayne Kalyn is always looking for fresh pitches that include first-person articles by parents, employers, and teachers with personal experience working with ADHD kids. Send submission by  email .

Contact: Editor-in-Chief Susan Caughman is on  LinkedIn .

Rate:  Pays an average of $100 to $200 per assignment.  

Based on census data and information from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, about 2 million people in the U.S. were raised by adoptive parents. It’s a life-changing event for kids and parents, and managing editor Eve Gilman says she’s always on the lookout for stories that help parents through the adoption process and provide practical tips on parenting.

Contact: Eve is on  LinkedIn .

Rate: Varies, depending on assignment.  

Moms aren’t the only ones who swap stories about grocery-store meltdowns, money matters, and the curiosities of raising kids. Dads do too. Got some “fatherly” advice that might help other dads or a funny experience with your kids to share? Fatherly pays for freelance pieces on topics like this.

Contact: Editor-in-Chief Tyghe Trimble is on  Twitter .

Rate: $0.15 a word.  

Your kids may be grown and gone, but you never really stop being a parent. Plus, you might have some advice to share for new parents or a story idea for this blog.

Contact: Pitch guest post ideas by email .

What’s it like to be a working mom and parent? It’s certainly not easy and takes a balancing act to make it work, enjoy life, and be a role model for your kids. That’s the focus of  Working Mother  magazine. Have an idea for a story?

Contact: Check out the list of contacts for each subject here .  

Rate: $100 to $300 per assignment.

A nursing journal that publishes poetry? Yes.  The American Journal of Nursing  publishes poems about health and health care, but not necessarily nursing. Check out their instructions or guidelines for  submissions  here. And make sure to check out our full guide on how to  get paid to write poetry .

Contact: Diane Szulecki at  [email protected] .

Rate: $150 per poem.  

This highly-regarded poetry journal based at Georgia University specifically encourages emerging poets and writers to submit their work for consideration.

Contact: Poetry must be submitted via the submission form .

Rate: $10 per printed page (minimum payment: $50), plus one contributor copy, and a one-year subscription; $3 submission charge.  

Cricket Media publishes a series of six  journals  that feature children’s poetry for different ages. These poetry journals include  Ladybug, Cricket, Babybug, Spider, and Cicada.  Learn more about  the magazine and founder and editor-in-chief Marianne Carus  here .

Contact: Upload submissions  here .

Rate: Up to $3 per line; $25.00 minimum.  

99. 50 Haikus  &  Three Line Poetry

These two journals, run by the same editors, want short lines with meaning and welcome new writers. They also reprint poems in an anthology. Read an interview with the editor  here .

Contact:  Glenn Lyvers at  [email protected] or reach out on LinkedIn .

Rate: $1.50 per poem plus a subscription; $10.00 for submissions marked as “Editor’s Choice.”

If you’ve spent any time trying to publish poetry, you’re probably familiar with this publication. It’s the top journal in the field, the authority on poetry for new and established writers. Crack this mag, and you’ll earn top pay, and build your credibility as a poet.

Contact: Email interim co-editor Holly Amos and associate editor Lindsay Garbutt at  [email protected] or reach out on Twitter .

Rate: For text, $10/line with a minimum of $300 per poem. For visual, audio, and video formats, $300 per poem. For multiple formats, compensation is offered for each format published.

Interested in political writing from a conservative perspective? You’ll need solid journalism skills to report and write about current events, trends, and issues for The American Conservative, a magazine published by the American Ideas Institute.

Contact: Email Senior Editor Helen Andrews or reach out on  Twitter .

Rate: $150 and up depending on assignment.  

LifeZette features political articles that offer commentary, insight, and explanation of the crazy world of politics.

Contact: Contact contributing editor David Kamioner on LinkedIn .

Rate: $100 to $200 per assignment reported.  

The Nation was founded on principles of investigative journalism and old-school reporting. Stories include comments and articles analyzing breaking news, politics, social issues, and the arts. Check  The Masthead  for the appropriate editor and send queries  here .

Contact: Managing Editor Rose D’Amora is on  LinkedIn .

Rate: $.13 – $.40 per word.  

Want to write about things that matter? Like social and economic justice; civil liberties; human rights; the environment; or democracy? Pitch a story idea to The Progressive.

Contact: Managing Editor Bill Lueders on  LinkedIn .

Rate:  $.10 -$.40 per word reported.  

Send ideas for investigative pieces, opinion-based features, or book reviews of political titles to the  Washington Monthly .

Contact: Reach associate editor Gabby Birenbaum on LinkedIn .

Rate: $0.10 a word.

If you want to write about bees, Bee Culture  assigns freelance writing pieces, including features stories about the impact of pesticides, pests, predators, and disease on bee colonies. Queries, as well as full-length manuscripts, are considered.

Contact:  Senior Editor Jerry Hayes by  email .

Rate: $150 to $200 per assignment, typically 1,500 to 2,000 words.

Write about science-related topics for  Mother Earth News by pitching a feature story idea on renewable energy, green transportation, natural health, or environmental issues. Best way to break in: Start with a short how-to article (100 to 300 words), before pitching a more in-depth feature.

Contact:  Editor-at-Large  Hank Will  on LinkedIn or another member of the editorial team  here .

Rate:  $25 to $100 per assignment.  

The  New Scientist  has an editorial staff of 40-plus writers who cover news about science, technology, health, and the environment. Your best bet? Pitch a feature story with a strong science focus “that will intrigue, entertain and inform the widest possible audience,” editor Emily Wilson advised. “Besides reporting the latest research,” she explained, “we also try to find interesting scientific or technological angles on major news events.”

Contact:  Chief features editors  Catherine de Lange  and  Tiffany O’Callaghan  are on Twitter. Scroll down the  guidelines page  for editor email addresses.

Rate:  $300 and up per assignment; $1.12 – $1.26 per word for news pieces.  

The American Association for the Advancement of Science publishes a widely read journal. Science caters to a unique audience of scientists, academics, and everyday people interested in science. Breaking news that hasn’t been covered in depth yet, an inside scoop, or a scandal within the scientific community will put your idea on the fast track for consideration. And there’s opportunity to write for the online version of the magazine as well as the print version.

Contact:  Check the “ Meet the Editors “ page to find the right staff member to pitch.

Rate:  Based on assignment; $0.47 – $1.33 per word.  

Even if you’ve never picked up a telescope or studied the stars, you probably heard about the total solar eclipse that passed over the United States in 2017. Millions of people from coast to coast scrambled to viewing locations within the Path of Totality across America to get a glimpse of the moon blocking out the sun for just a few minutes. This is the kind of content you’ll find in  Sky & Telescope . Senior editor Kelly Beatty shared that the mag’s readership ranges from “armchair astronomers to professional astrophysicists,” however, “most are amateur astronomers. People from all walks of life who love the night sky and want to learn everything they can about it.”

Contact:   Email the editor (preferred) or reach out to Kelly on  Twitter .

Rate:  Based on assignment.

The GoDaddy blog, dubbed “GoDaddy Garage,” is geared toward helping entrepreneurs plan for, launch, grow, and maintain a business. In addition to its entrepreneurial focus, GoDaddy Garage also includes a section geared specifically toward web professionals. If you have an interesting, original idea, submit it! You can also apply to be a regular contributor.

Contact:  Pitch managing editor  Andrea Rowland  or complete the  pitch submission form .

Rate: Per article. Varies according to length, complexity, and influence.

Pixlr is a popular online photo editing platform, and its website features a blog that publishes content by freelance writers. If you have expertise relating to photography or graphic design, pitch the Pixlr blog.

Contact:  Submit your idea by completing the  pitch form .

Rate:  $200 per post; more for tutorials.

SitePoint is a blog geared toward helping people understand how to use new web technologies, including various types of codes, web-based tools, and design programs. If you have experience in web development, design, or content creation, pitch SitePoint.

Contact:  Contact managing  Editor Joel Falconer  on LinkedIn or submit the  pitch form .

Rate:  $150 to $250 per post.

Know about web building? Consider pitching Smashing Magazine, a website and blog geared toward designers and developers. They accept articles from both new and experienced writers and are especially in need of tutorials, guides, opinion pieces, and case studies. Include a 200-300-word outline in  your pitch.

Contact:  Send a message to editor-in-chief  Vitaly Friedman  or use the  pitch submission form .

Rate:  $0.07-$0.13 per word.  

The Verge covers a vast array of tech topics, including entertainment, science, and transportation. Content explores how tech integrates with the public, as well as the impact it will have on the future.

Contact: This pub has over a dozen editors. See the masthead  on the about page to find the right person or find Deputy Editor Elizabeth Logpatto  on Twitter.

Rate: $0.50-$0.83 a word.

While the pandemic continues to cause upheaval for the economy, the freelance writing industry is still going strong – and it’s here to stay. Whether you’re just launching your writing career or have years of experience under your belt, you can use this list as a starting point to help you set fresh goals for the new year. Every gig you land – and every clip you get – can open the door to opportunities for more and better-paying work.

Remember: Review the submissions guidelines. Familiarize yourself with the pub. Read recently published articles. Then craft your customized pitch, proof it, and hit send.

Excited to score some new freelance writing jobs in 2022? Tell us in the comments.

Christin Nielsen  is a freelance writer and the editor of The Triangle, a twice-weekly newsletter covering local news in Virginia’s Historic Triangle.

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Copyblogger

13 Writing Side Hustles To Earn An Extra $1,000

This post will introduce you to 13 excellent writing side hustles you can pursue to make an additional $1,000 to $10,000 per month.

The better question is, which one should you choose ? 

To help you make a decision, we’ll evaluate each writing side hustle by answering these two questions: 

• How scalable is this? Some writing side hustles allow you to earn passive income, whereas others are service-based, where you’re trading your time for money. 
• How long will I have to wait to make money? Some writing side hustles allow you to make money immediately, whereas others require a significant time investment before you’ll earn a dollar.

For each writing side hustle, we’ll also give you the first action step you can take to get started today.

Want us to scale your traffic?

For the first time, The Copyblogger methodology is now available to a select few clients. We know it works. We’ve been doing it since 2006.

1. Affiliate Marketing 

Plenty of companies have products and services but no customers.

As an affiliate marketer, you build a loyal audience of readers through blogging.

Then, you can promote products and services from other companies on your blog and earn a commission when your readers buy a product.

An excellent example of an affiliate marketing website is The Spruce . They write articles that rank for keywords like “best crockpots” and “ best rice cookers .” Each of the blog posts contains affiliate links to the products mentioned in the article. Whenever a reader purchases a product, The Spruce earns a commission.

The Spruce is an example of a multi-million dollar affiliate marketing website, proving that affiliate marketing can scale to be much more than just a small writing side hustle. 

Additionally, affiliate marketers don’t have to deal with customer service or product delivery. The downside is that affiliate marketers can’t control product quality, so recommending a bad product can reflect negatively on your brand.

Building an audience also takes time, so you probably won’t make money immediately with affiliate marketing. However, once you have built an audience and strong website authority, it’s a truly passive business model. Therefore, you can take a break from publishing content, and you’ll still earn money from existing blog posts.  

Scalability

Affiliate marketing can scale as brands like The Spruce are worth millions. Additionally, you can hire other people to write the content for you, making it a fairly passive business. However, The Spruce is a rarity and according to ZipRecruiter, the average affiliate marketer in the United States makes about $82,000 per year . 

Time To Money

Affiliate marketing relies on ranking for keywords, so if you’re starting a brand new site with no previous authority, it might take anywhere from six months to over a year to see a substantial ROI. 

How to Start Now

To get started with affiliate marketing , set up a website, select a niche , and begin writing content on your blog to build an audience. 

2. Content Repurposer

Content repurposing is republishing a single piece of content, like a video or podcast audio, in a different format, like a blog post or social media clips. 

Many companies pay freelancers to repurpose content because it helps them maximize the reach of a single piece of content by publishing it on different platforms.

For example, Ahrefs repurposed its video on keyword research for affiliate marketing into a blog post:

Here’s an example of a freelancer who offers content repurposing services at different pricing tiers:

Additionally, it’s becoming increasingly challenging to get content in front of the right audience, so there’s a growing demand for content repurposing. 

The only way to scale content repurposing is by building an agency, so it isn’t a great side hustle if your goal is to scale it into a multi-million dollar business as a solopreneur. 

Additionally, most clients looking for content repurposing want a solution to maximize their content marketing investments, so they typically aren’t interested in paying top dollar and you might find yourself competing with cheaper freelancers on Upwork. According to Zip Recruiter, the average content repurposer makes about $60 per hour . 

Content repurposing is currently in high demand and you can start making money immediately as it’s a service-based side hustle.

Find companies with long form video and audio content and create a blog post and four social media posts from their video/audio content. Send it to them and offer to work for free with the option to later charge.  

3. Blogging

Bloggers select a niche, such as food or traveling, and then write blog posts on the topic to build an audience. 

After building a loyal following, there are many different ways to monetize a blog, including:

• Sponsored blog posts : A brand pays to write a blog post on your blog. The average cost of a sponsored blog post is about $250 , though how much you can charge really depends on the authority of your website, how much traffic it earns, and the value of your audience. 
• Affiliate marketing : You promote products or services on your blog and earn a commission from the sales.
• Paid brand promotions : You can partner with a brand that pays you a set fee to promote their products or services. For example, travel blogger Matt of Expert Vagabond makes between $4,000 and $20,000 per brand partnership .
• Selling your own products/services : You create your own product or service and sell it to your readers. For example, Blogilates founder Cassey Ho is rumored to have a networth of about $7 to $8 million , and most of it is from POPFLEX , the brand she launched after building millions of followers through her blog and YouTube channel.

The scalability of blogging depends on how you monetize it. If you’re only monetizing it through affiliate products and sponsored posts, it will likely only be moderately scalable.

However, you can scale it to well over seven figures if you launch your own brand after building an audience. 

Some bloggers make over $1 million per year , though the average is about $62,000 in the United States.

However, it is scalable from an operations standpoint if you hire other freelance writers to write the content. You can also stop publishing and continue earning passive income from existing content.

You won’t make money immediately with blogging as you’ll likely have to spend six to twelve months building an audience before brands will pay you to promote their products or services. 

Your first step to becoming a beginner blogger is to select a niche , set up a website, and start writing blog posts to build an audience.

4. Directories/Job Boards

Directories and job boards can charge anywhere from $100 to $500 per listing, and the main strategy for building a job board or directory is to write content to build an audience and the website’s authority.

This seasonal job board, CoolWorks , charges $149 for a seven-day multi-position job ad and $169 for a 30 day single position job ad. 

To build the authority of a website like this, you would write blog posts about the topics a job seeker might search for, such as “best ski resort jobs” or “how to get a J1/H2B visa.”

Local business directories are very similar business models. For example, Visit Charlottesville is a website that provides information on the local town’s businesses.

They monetize the site by offering sponsored posts ranging from $300 to $450, and each listing in their directory ranges from about $60 to $240. 

Directories and job boards are scalable as you can add unlimited listings to the website. Additionally, it’s a passive business as businesses can purchase an ad online without any involvement on your part. 

Both directories and job board businesses can be very profitable. For example, YTJobs currently charges about $245 per listing, and each listing lasts about two months. They currently have approximately 260 active listings, meaning the website earns at least $65,000 every two months.

However, most job boards won’t scale beyond a few million dollars per year.

Job boards and directories rely on SEO strength, so you likely won’t earn money immediately with this writing side hustle.

You can watch our video on how to start a directory business:

If you want to build a job board, watch our video here on how to start a profitable job board:

5. Email Copywriting

Businesses know their email subscribers are arguably their most valuable prospects, so they’re willing to pay top dollar for a skilled email copywriter who can build trust and convert those subscribers into customers. 

The average freelance email writer charges about $25 to $50 per email or anywhere from $150 to $500 for longer emails. However, skilled email copywriters who charge revenue shares can scale to seven figures annually.

Here are a few of the most common ways to make money as an email copywriter:

1. Email nurture sequences : Many course creators, service providers, and even software companies pay email copywriters to create nurture sequences. These emails often teach the audience how to solve a problem and then pitch the product or service within the sequence. 

Here’s an example of an email nurture sequence.

2. Onboarding email sequences: Software companies usually offer onboarding sequences that show new customers how to use their product. These sequences are particularly valuable to companies that rely on recurring revenue because customers who understand how to use the product properly will receive the most value from it and, therefore, stay with the company for longer.   

3. Weekly emails/newsletters : Once an email subscriber completes a nurture sequence, it’s important to keep them engaged so the brand can offer them another product/service at a future date (and prevent churn if it’s a recurring revenue business model). 

As an email copywriter, you can offer to write weekly engagement emails that provide helpful industry news, thought leadership content , and brand news. The Copyblogger newsletter is an excellent example of a weekly newsletter.

Scalability 

When you start as an email copywriter, you’ll probably offer a service business by charging an hourly rate or a project fee, which isn’t very scalable. Additionally, most companies won’t pay much for a weekly newsletter copywriter. However, nurture email copywriters who charge revenue shares for product launches can scale beyond seven figures. 

As an email copywriter, you can start earning immediately by offering your writing as a service and then scale over time by doing revenue sharing or even launching your own offer.

How To Start Now

You can start today by writing a free email sequence for your dream company, sending it to them, and offering to write more for them for free with the intention of eventually charging. 

6. Website Copywriter

There’s a large market for website copywriters, but there’s also a large supply of website copywriters. While it’s possible to make a healthy income as a website copywriter, many only make a few hundred dollars per project.

To establish yourself as a premium copywriter, identify a niche (such as SaaS or ecommerce) and learn basic CRO (conversion rate optimization) skills. Then, instead of just advertising yourself as a website copywriter, provide an analysis on how to improve the conversion rate of that website through better copywriting.

By positioning yourself as a premium website copywriter who can boost conversions, you’ll be able to charge significantly more than the average writer. For example, this website copywriter has earned over $500,000 and doesn’t accept engagements under $2,500 due to demand:

Website copywriting isn’t one of the most scalable opportunities, as you can really only charge for your time unless you build an agency, and there’s a very small percentage of companies willing to invest in CRO. Additionally, it isn’t a recurring revenue service. For example, once you finish the website copy, that client won’t need you anymore.

You can make money very quickly as a website copywriter because there’s a high demand for website copy, and the first step to get started (mentioned below) has a high success rate.

Identify a few dream clients and email them new copy for their website and highlight specific changes you made within the copy to increase conversions. Ask them to publish the new content and track the lift in conversions. You can then use that as a case study when pitching new clients.

7. Start a Newsletter

Newsletter businesses are highly profitable as you can write it yourself or hire a freelancer to do it for you. Then, you can monetize it through sponsorships with other brands or offer affiliate products. 

Marie Haynes newsletter is a great example of a weekly newsletter that anyone could start. 

Select a niche you’re passionate about and then provide industry news or write about your personal experience/recent discoveries. 

Building an audience for a newsletter can be challenging, so here are a few strategies to earn more subscribers:

• Promote it on social media . Tell your audience what you’ll talk about in your newsletter the next day and offer a subscribe link.

• Create a referral program . Offer a tiered referral program where people can unlock rewards by referring their friends.
• Use paid ads to scale . You can always run paid ads to earn more subscribers.

There are plenty of examples of newsletter brands that have sold for millions of dollars, including The Milk Road , The Hustle , and The Morning Brew .

Newsletters are a more scalable writing side hustle because you can earn more money as more people subscribe to your list without increasing your effort. If you run a personal newsletter, you’ll still have to write it each day/week, though you could also choose to run a branded newsletter business like the Milk Road and hire other writers to write it for you.

Newsletters are challenging to grow, and you can’t really make any money until you build an audience. Plan to spend six to twelve months before you start making money.   

Watch this video on how Tim Stoddart builds newsletter businesses:

8. Social Media Ghostwriting

Many business executives and entrepreneurs realize the value of a social media following, but don’t have time to write their own content.

Instead, they’ll hire a social media ghostwriter to create content for them. As a social media ghostwriter, you’ll interview the client to understand the audience they’re trying to attract, their viewpoints on specific topics, and their personal stories.

Here’s an example of a social media post that a ghostwriter could interview a client and then write:

Plenty of freelance social media ghostwriters and even social media ghostwriting agencies like StoryArb charge over $7,000 per month, so there’s plenty of demand for the service.

Social media ghostwriting is minimally scalable as you trade your time for money. However, skilled social media ghostwriters can charge $5,000 plus per month for quality content. You could build an agency, though the level of talent you’ll have to hire is quite high as they’ll have to interview the clients and be able to write in their voice.

As it’s a service business, you can make money almost immediately with social media ghostwriting. However, the first step to getting a client has a moderate success rate, so landing your first client could be difficult.

To get started today, use this guide on how to become a ghostwriter . It discusses how to get your first client (reach out to your dream clients with a sample social media post and offer to write for them for free) and how to build a workflow process (e.g., how to interview them, templates to help you generate content ideas, and more).   

9. SEO Copywriter

SEO copywriters write blog posts designed to rank in search engines like Google for keywords that a company’s target audience searches. For example, a webinar software company would want to rank in Google for a keyword like “best webinar platforms.”

To establish yourself as a premium SEO copywriter and charge more for your services, understand these basic SEO best practices:

• Internal linking
• Keyword research
• On-page optimization (using H1s, H2s, title tag/meta description, etc.)
• Search intent /format optimization

You can also differentiate yourself by specializing in a specific niche (like SaaS) or offering a very particular service, like content updating .

SEO copywriting isn’t a very scalable writing side hustle because you’re trading your time for money, and building an agency is the only way to scale it. Additionally, while there’s still a decent market for high quality SEO copywriters, many companies are now using AI for SEO copywriting.

As SEO copywriting is a service business, you can make money as soon as you land your first client (i.e., immediately). Additionally, the first step to getting started has a high success rate.

Spend a day or two learning about the four concepts mentioned above (internal linking, keyword research, on-page optimization, and search intent). Then, identify your dream client and reach out to them with suggestions on how to improve the rankings of specific blog posts.

10. YouTube Scriptwriter

YouTube scriptwriters are in high demand as companies and individual creators strive to increase content output.

It’s also fairly profitable. YouTube scriptwriter George Blackman shared rates he’s been paid to write scripts, and some clients are happy to pay over $1,000 per script:

He also hinted that $300 to $400 is on the low end for a quality script:

Therefore, if you want to position yourself as a premium scriptwriter, learn the basics about retention and ideation and then provide suggestions and feedback on how your clients can improve their overall video performance.

If you choose to become a YouTube scriptwriter, keep in mind that you’ll likely have to work closely with each client to understand their personality and stylistic preferences as you’re essentially putting words in their mouth. Therefore, you might have to do many more revisions than, say, an SEO copywriter or email copywriter. 

YouTube scriptwriting is likely one of the least scalable opportunities as you’ll have to build a strong relationship with your clients to really understand their tone of voice and style. Therefore, creating an agency would be very difficult and you’ll only be able to take on a limited number of clients.   

Depending on the client and your relationship with them, you might be able to ask for a revenue share agreement, which would significantly increase your scale potential.

As a service based business, you can make money almost immediately as a YouTube scriptwriter.

Learn basic YouTube retention concepts and then write some sample scripts on the niche you want to specialize in, record videos, and post them on a personal channel. You can then send your channel to potential clients and offer to do some scriptwriting for them for free. Alternatively, you could reach out to some of your dream clients and tell them specific ways they could improve retention on their videos by improving various aspects of their scripts. Then, offer to write scripts for them for free.

11. Resume and Cover Letter Writer

A resume and cover letter writer understands what employers look for when evaluating candidates and helps clients optimize their resume/cover letters accordingly. 

Most resume and cover letter writers charge between $25 and $65 per hour, which isn’t among the most profitable writing side hustle opportunities.

However, you can charge significantly more if you tie your services to outcomes (i.e., getting the dream job) and provide additional support on which jobs to apply for, how to prepare for the interview, and how to build relationships with people at the company.

For example, these resume writers charge well over $500 for their services:

You can also offer LinkedIn profile optimizations, email correspondence assistance, and other upsells.

Resume writing isn’t a very scalable option as it’s a service business where you’re trading your time for dollars. It also relies on your expertise, making it difficult (though not impossible) to scale into an agency. 

You can start making money when you land your first client, and there’s always a large market of job seekers.

Reach out to some of your friends and ask them if you can help them optimize their resumes and LinkedIn profiles. You can also use LinkedIn Recruiter to search for people looking for jobs and then reach out to them, offering to optimize their resumes for free. 

12. Grant Writer

Grant writers help non-profits and research organizations win grants for project funding, and the average grant writer can earn several hundred dollars per project.

To establish yourself as a premium grant writer and expand your services, specialize in a particular niche, and provide coaching and assistance with everything from which organizations to pitch to how to pitch them.   

The downside of grant writing is that it isn’t a recurring revenue stream as you’ll constantly search for new clients. In contrast, other writing side hustles like SEO copywriting or social media ghostwriting allow you to earn recurring revenue.

Grant writing isn’t very scalable because it’s a service-based business in which you trade time for money. There also aren’t many options to earn recurring revenue.

You can start making money as soon as you land your first client. There is a decent market of nonprofits looking for grant writers, but most of them will want to see grants you’ve won for other organizations, which can make it a little more challenging to break into the industry.

Select a niche you want to specialize in and contact a few nonprofits. Provide suggestions of specific grants they should apply to and offer to write grant applications for them for free. 

13. Sales Page Copywriting

Sales pages are designed to drive online sales for a product or service. Here’s an example of the sales page for Charisma University , a coaching course for improving social skills.

Sales copywriting is one of the most profitable writing side hustles as a great sales copywriter can charge five figures for a single sales page.  

The key to charging a premium price depends on:

• Your skill level/track record : If your sales pages consistently generate millions of dollars and outperform previous sales pages from the company, you can obviously charge more.
• Your clients : A company already making millions of dollars on a product can spend much more on a great sales copywriter because they realize that increasing conversions by even a small percentage can significantly increase revenue.

To become a premium sales copywriter, interview customers who have previously purchased the product/service or (if it’s a brand new product/service) interview the ideal target audience. During these interviews, understand their pain points, specific outcomes/benefits they want, and what they’re looking for in a product/service like the one you’re offering.

This customer research will make your copywriting much more compelling and increase conversions. Additionally, clients realize that this detailed research leads to better conversions, so you’ll be able to charge more immediately simply because your process is much more thorough than the average copywriter’s process.

Sales copywriting is a more profitable writing side hustle because larger brands are accustomed to paying four or five figures for a great sales page. Additionally, you can do a revenue share based on the sales your page generates. The downside is that there isn’t really an option for passive income, as you’ll only make money when you write sales letters.

You can start making money immediately as a sales copywriter—just land your first client, and you’re a sales copywriter. However, the first step to becoming a copywriter is moderately effort and time-intensive.

To get started as a sales copywriter, find moderately optimized sales pages, make improvements to them, and send the improvements to the company. Ask if they’ll consider publishing your example and track the difference in conversions. This will help you build the skills of sales copywriting to understand what works and what doesn’t work. Then, you can use those sales pages as case studies to land paying clients. 

Get More Support On Your Journey As A Writer

The best way to become a great writer is by writing. So don’t wait or plan anymore – pick one of the writing side hustles above and take the advice in the “how to start now” section. 

That said, you can increase your rate of learning and earn faster if you regularly receive feedback on your work and have basic frameworks and instructions to improve your writing.

That’s why we built the Copyblogger Academy – a community of writers and entrepreneurs. Inside, you’ll have access to nine different courses on personal branding, SEO, content marketing, and more. You’ll also have the opportunity to get your questions answered by seven figure entrepreneurs Tim Stoddart and Charles Miller, and you can attend regular accountability meetings. To see if the Copyblogger Academy is a good fit for you, sign up today and we’ll give you a full refund if you aren’t 100% satisfied in the first 30 days. 

Megan Mahoney

Megan is the head of SEO for Copyblogger. In addition, she runs the content agency Ignite My Site . You can follow here on LinkedIn.

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