Can You Really Get Paid to Write?
If you love writing, there are countless opportunities to turn your words into income. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced writer, many websites offer paid writing gigs for articles, blogs, and creative pieces. The best part? These platforms cater to various interests, from travel writing and humour to lifestyle and long-form essays.
In this guide, we’ll explore 10 websites that pay writers, their submission guidelines, and how much you can earn. Plus, we’ll answer common questions and provide actionable tips to help you start your writing journey.
10 Websites That Pay Writers
1. Listverse
- What It Is: Listverse specialises in quirky, unique lists on various topics, avoiding common subjects like self-help, sports, or gaming.
- Pay: $100 per accepted list.
- Requirements: Each list must have at least 10 items and be about 1,500 words.
- How to Start: Submit your list via their online form. No prior experience is needed.
- Website: Listverse
2. Cracked
- What It Is: A humour-focused platform that publishes funny articles, odd facts, and creative listicles.
- Pay: $100 to $250 per article, depending on content type and length.
- Requirements: Open to both beginners and experienced writers. Submissions should showcase creativity and humour.
- How to Start: Pitch your ideas directly via email.
- Website: Cracked
3. Transitions Abroad
- What It Is: A travel-orientated site that publishes articles on cultural immersion, international jobs, and virtual learning.
- Pay: $75 to $150 per article (1,250 to 3,000+ words).
- Requirements: Articles must align with their detailed guidelines.
- How to Start: Review their contributor guidelines and submit your article.
- Website: Transitions Abroad
4. Barefoot Writer
- What It Is: A platform that publishes articles on writing tips, freelance lifestyles, and career-building advice for writers.
- Pay: $100 to $300 per article.
- Requirements: Articles should provide actionable insights for aspiring writers.
- How to Start: Submit your pitch or article following their guidelines.
- Website: Barefoot Writer
5. Great Escape Publishing
- What It Is: Focuses on travel writing, particularly on how to earn through travel-related content.
- Pay: Approximately $150 for interviews or personal stories.
- Requirements: Stories must align with their travel writing style.
- How to Start: Study their published content and pitch your idea.
- Website: Great Escape Publishing
6. Longreads
- What It Is: Publishes long-form non-fiction storytelling across a variety of themes.
- Pay: Up to $500 per essay (2,000 to 6,000 words).
- Requirements: Essays should be well-researched and impactful.
- How to Start: Pitch your essay directly to their editors.
- Website: Longreads
7. Cosmopolitan
- What It Is: A well-known magazine that accepts personal narratives and blog posts on health, politics, and lifestyle topics.
- Pay: Around $250 per 1,000-word blog post.
- Requirements: Articles must be relatable and engaging for their audience.
- How to Start: Submit your pitch for online or print content.
- Website: Cosmopolitan
8. Textbroker
- What It Is: A content platform that connects writers with clients in various niches.
- Pay: Rates vary depending on your writer level.
- Requirements: Submit a sample article to determine your level.
- How to Start: Create a profile and start bidding on assignments.
- Website: Textbroker
9. Verblio
- What It Is: Offers freelance writing opportunities for articles ranging from 300 to 3,000 words.
- Pay: Paid weekly for approved articles.
- Requirements: Open to writers of all levels; follow their submission guidelines.
- How to Start: Sign up, complete their writer application, and start picking projects.
- Website: Verblio
10. Writer Access
- What It Is: A platform that connects writers with businesses needing content in multiple industries.
- Pay: Varies by project, with flexible payout options.
- Requirements: Create a profile and showcase your expertise.
- How to Start: Sign up and browse available writing jobs.
- Website: Writer Access
How Much Can You Earn as a Writer?
Earnings vary widely depending on the platform, your experience, and the type of content. Here’s a breakdown:
| Platform | Pay Per Article | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| Listverse | $100 | Beginners with unique ideas. |
| Cracked | $100–$250 | Writers with humor or creative flair. |
| Transitions Abroad | $75–$150 | Travel writers and storytellers. |
| Longreads | Up to $500 | Long-form essayists. |
| Textbroker | Varies | Content writers for diverse niches. |
Tips to Get Started and Succeed
- Pick the Right Platform
- Choose a platform that aligns with your skills and interests. For example, humour writers might excel on Cracked, while travel enthusiasts could focus on Transitions Abroad.
- Study Submission Guidelines
- Each site has specific requirements. Carefully read the guidelines to ensure your article is accepted.
- Build a Portfolio
- If you’re a beginner, create samples or start a blog to showcase your writing.
- Pitch Unique Ideas
- Platforms like Cosmopolitan and Longreads value originality. Focus on fresh angles or personal experiences.
- Revise and Proofread
- Edit your work thoroughly to improve your chances of acceptance.
FAQs About Getting Paid to Write
1. Can beginners get paid to write?
Yes, platforms like Listverse, Textbroker, and Cracked welcome beginners. Creating high-quality content and following guidelines can help you get started.
2. How do I receive payments?
Most platforms pay through PayPal, direct bank transfer, or gift cards. Ensure you check the payout method before signing up.
3. Can I write part-time?
Absolutely! Many of these platforms allow you to write at your own pace, making it a flexible side hustle.
4. Do I need prior experience?
No, many platforms accept writers without formal experience. A strong pitch and well-written samples can help you secure opportunities.
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Links to resources
- Listverse
- Cracked
- Transitions Abroad
- Barefoot Writer
- Great Escape Publishing
- Longreads
- Cosmopolitan
- Textbroker
- Verblio
- Writer Access
Conclusion: Start Earning Money Writing Today
Getting paid to write is a rewarding way to share your creativity while earning an income. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned writer, the platforms in this guide offer opportunities to turn your passion into profit. Pick the platform that suits your skills, submit a pitch, and start earning today!
For more money-making ideas, visit Money Savvy UK. Share your writing journey in the comments below!
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