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• Write Personal Essays and Get Paid: 16 Markets for Freelancers

1. The Alpinist

2. brain, child , 3. the bold italic, 4. bugle magazine, 5. buzzfeed, 6. christian science monitor: home forum, 7. dame magazine, 8. the establishment, 9. extra crispy, 10. motherwell , 11. narratively, 12. new york times – modern love, 13. the penny hoarder, 15. the smart set, 16. vox first person, get paid to write personal essays: what you need to know.

It’s the romantic version of being a freelance writer.

Take a vacation, and write about your adventures. Survive your toddler’s terrible-twos and share your advice. Dabble in online dating and tell others the good, the bad, and the ugly about your experience.

Sounds pretty good, right?

If you have a unique perspective, experience, thoughts, or advice from your side of the fence, you can get paid to write personal essays…in just about any niche.

But you need to know where to look when learning how to make money writing , and how to pitch an editor when you do. Note: There are still plenty of opportunities to write personal essays, but not all are well-paying assignments.

Want to find freelance writing jobs ? Check out these 16 markets for places to get paid to write personal essays:

Are you an experienced mountain climber or new to the sport? Are you on a mission to bag as many peaks around the world as possible? Know a climbing destination every serious adventurer needs to visit? The Alpinist wants to hear from you. Pitch an idea for a personal essay to Senior Editor Katie Ives for The Climbing Life or Off Belay.

Rate: Pays $0.25/word for 250 to 500-word essays.

When writer Penne Richards lost her daughter in a car accident, she struggled to deal with the loss.  Writing about the difficult experience for Brain, Child , proved to be a powerful way to help her grieve. Not every essay in this magazine covers such heavy-hitting topics. But it is a place where you can write long-form essays on a wide range of subjects and topics. Send your pitch to editor and publisher Marcelle Soviero .

Rate: Pays $300 for 1,500 to 4,500-word essays.

Live in San Francisco, or have a connection to The City By the Bay that’s changed the way you see the world? The Bold Italic Editor-in-Chief Keith Spencer  wants to hear from you. This online magazine has published personal essays on the gig economy, online dating, mental illness, and many other topics with a San Francisco angle.

Rate: $50 per essay

If you want to write personal essays about elk hunting, land-use issues, conservation, wildlife management and exploring the Rocky Mountains, pitch an idea Bugle Magazine  Assistant Editor Kasey Rahn . Here’s the catch, the section where you’re most likely to land an assignment is for the “Women in Outdoors” column. Submit a pitch or send a personal essay on spec for review.

Rate: Pays $0.20/word for 1,000 to 3,000-word essays.

Looking to score some serious exposure? Write a personal essay for the popular site Buzzfeed, which gets an estimated 168 million unique visitors per month. Pick a topic and tell readers about what you know, what you’ve learned, or share your point of view. “Whatever that experience is, it should offer insight into an ongoing and relevant cultural conversation for readers,” says BuzzFeed Editor Rachel Sanders.

Rate: Pays an estimated $0.13 to $0.27 per word.

Mark Sappenfield was promoted to editor at The   Christian Science Monitor earlier this year, after a decade of writing for this well-known publication. He says “The Home Forum” section is the best place to pitch personal essays, which can cover a wide range of topics.  Current interests for essay topics include travel, parenting, home, family, gardening, neighborhood, and community. Submit completed essays for consideration.

Rate:  Pays $75 to $150 for 400 to 800-word essays.

This edgy women’s magazine likes to push the envelope with witty, irreverent, and provocative content, which includes personal essays. “ Our objective is to move the conversation forward around trending and topical subjects most relevant to women-that is, when we’re not starting the conversation,” says Dame Magazine Editor  Kera Bolonik . Query first, before submitting a completed essay.

Rate:  Pays an estimated $0.13/word.

This online magazine run by women has a lot in common with  Dame Magazine . It’s edgy, quirky, and was created to provide a place for people to share their ideas. Need a dose of inspiration? Check out the recent essay written by Rachel McCarthy James: Can you make Donald Trump resign from your nightmares?  Have an essay idea? Reach out to The Establishment Editor Nikki Gloudeman.

Rate:  Pays $125 per 800 to 1,500-word essays.

Your mother always told you not to skip breakfast. This is why: You can get paid to write about it. Extra Crispy is all about what people eat for breakfast. Recipes are a must, along with the story that goes with them. But it has to be smart, fun, weird, or have a fresh angle on the typical breakfast, says Extra Crispy Editor Ryan Grim.

Rate: Pays an estimated $0.47/word for 800 to 1,000-word essays.

Not everybody experiences parenting the same way. And not everybody has the same opinions on raising kids. And that’s why Randi Olin and Lauren Apfel created Motherwell magazine. “We’re looking for evocative first-person narratives that have a unique focus, or take a novel angle, on a slice of the parenting experience,” says Olin. Submit completed essays up to 1,200 words for consideration.

Rate:  Pays $50 for up to 1,200-word essays.

If you want to get paid to write a personal essay for Narratively, you need to have a story to tell that offers readers a glimpse into whatever makes your life different, interesting, or even abnormal. Like lawyer Amy Bond’s recent essay, “ Twitter trolls outed my porn star past. So I embraced it. ” Be sure your essay includes a “takeaway” or lesson for readers. Submit a pitch or completed essay for consideration.

Rate: Pays $200-300 for 2,000 – 2,500-word essays.

Think writing for  The New York Times is out of reach? Think again. You don’t have to be an established writer to land an assignment to write for the Modern Love column. You just need to have something fresh to say about relationships, marriage, dating, and parenthood. For more on how to break into this market, check out the advice from Modern Love editor Daniel Jones .

Rate:  Pays $300 per 1,500 to 1,700 word essays.

This frugal-living, money-saving website covers a wide range of topics meant to provide people with practice ways to earn and save money. Pitch an idea to The Penny Hoarder Editor Alexis Grant  and find an angle for an evergreen topic.

Rate: Pays an estimated $0.08/word for 700 to 900 word essays. Negotiable.

Working on the next great American novel? Writing a non-fiction book? Or wondering where you can publish poetry? There aren’t a lot of markets for this type of essay writing. But Slice magazine, created by Maria Gagliano and Celia Johnson , happens to be one of them.  “We’re looking for anyone with a fresh voice and a compelling story to share-basically any work that really knocks our socks off,” says Gagliano.  “We simply look for works by writers who promise to become tomorrow’s literary legends.”

Rate: Pays $250 for essays up to 5,000 words.

Magazines were a different breed in the early 1900s when H.L. Mencken and George Nathan published the literary magazine  The Smart Set. And while the magazine folded in 1930, it’s literary focus on covering culture, arts, science, and world affairs wasn’t forgotten. The magazine was reincarnated at Drexel University in Pennsylvania and publishes personal essays on a wide range of topics.

Rate:  Pays an estimated $0.07/word for 1,000 to 3,000-word essays.

If you have a great story to tell that helps explain an important issue, Vox First Person Editor Eleanor Barkhorn wants to hear from you.  This online magazine wants  thoughtful, in-depth, provocative and personal narratives on politics, culture, science, health, and world views with a fresh perspective.

Rate: Pays an estimated $0.19 to $0.41/word for 1,200 to 3,000-word essays.

Every publication is going to have slightly different guidelines for writing personal essays.

For magazines , a nalyze your favorite pub, and you’ll likely find a personal essay among the pages. Study those. Then check Writers Market for submission guidelines (which usually requires submitting a completed essay instead of a pitch).

For blogs and other outlets , study examples of past essays, and read the guidelines, which you can usually find online. While most editors want a complete draft of a personal essay, instead of a pitch, that’s not the case for every publication.

Obviously personal essays are going to focus on something from your own life experience. But you need to find a way to bring it back to the reader, make it relevant to their own life, and give them some kind of take-away message.

Keep that in mind, and you’ll be able to land gigs and get paid to write personal essays.

Know of other markets to get paid to write personal essays?

Erica Verrillo writes about the business of freelance writing on her blog. She is also the author of the “Phoenix Rising” trilogy novels and “Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: A Treatment Guide.”

Note: It came to our attention after publication that some content in this post had been previously published. We have double-checked and confirmed that the information is still current.

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The Pros and Cons of Writing Essays for Money

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Essay writing jobs are popular among freelance writers. They have low barriers to entry, and you can quickly find dozens of gigs online.

Although accessible, you might feel skeptical about paid essays. They encourage cheating, after all. To help you reach an informed decision, let's discuss some pros and cons of writing essays for money.

The Pros of Writing Essays for Money

Freelance writers worldwide take on essay writing jobs because they’re simple and accessible.

1. Academic Writing Gigs Are Widely Available

Freelancers primarily accept essay writing jobs for their accessibility. They’re widely available. A quick search on Upwork already displays 1,000+ projects, and you’ll likely find more on other essay-writing platforms .

Just search “academic writing” or “essay writing” on freelancing sites to get started. And make sure you contact multiple clients. They receive thousands of resumes regularly—your first few applications will likely get rejected.

Also, sign up as a Fiverr seller. While you might not receive as many orders initially, you’ll have some flexibility over setting your rates.

2. You Can Work on Essays Within Your Field of Expertise

Essay writing jobs comprise several niches. There are orders for personal essays, academic research papers, history reports, case studies, and business proposals, among other coursework. You’ll have no trouble finding ones that suit you.

While you might feel tempted to write about multiple topics, consider starting with just one or two fields. Orders often require 1,000+ words. You’ll spend too much time researching if you have minimal background knowledge of them.

Choose orders that align with your profession. For instance, economics reports suit finance professionals, while biology essays are perfect for healthcare workers.

3. Writers Can Make a Quick Buck With Paid Essays

It’s common for freelancers to struggle with client acquisition regardless of their tenure and skill. Even seasoned professionals experience a dry spell. Many spend weeks finding a lucrative gig that will replace their previous ones.

If you lose work and get strapped for cash, supplement your income with essay writing jobs. They don’t pay much. However, the extra money should help you get through these trying times.

Attract more freelance clients by utilizing your online network. Update your portfolio, contact hiring managers, and publish guest posts on reputable websites.

4. Essay Writing Gigs Are Often Open to Writers of All Levels

Writers of all levels can try writing essays for money. Even inexperienced freelancers and college students qualify for most of these gigs. They don’t even have to write that well yet. Clients just need assistance with their coursework, e.g., essays and theses.

Newbie writers should maximize these low barriers to entry. Try taking on as many essay writing jobs as possible to jumpstart your career. The freelance market is super competitive. You won’t win projects if you have zero experience.

5. Some Essay Mills Encourage Writers to Paraphrase Content

Essay writing jobs have become easier with the advancement of AI. Content mills now encourage their writers to rephrase articles that chatbots generate.

ChatGPT can generate large amounts of text quickly. The writer then needs to paraphrase the AI-generated text, a process that can vary in time depending on the complexity of the content.

Some clients might overlook it, but copy-pasting AI content classifies as plagiarism. Chatbots only pull information from their datasets. Instead, explore the responsible, ethical ways to use AI as a writer .

The Cons of Writing Essays for Money

Think twice before accepting essay writing jobs. Weigh the disadvantages first—they might not be worth your time.

1. Essay Mills Encourage Cheating

Regardless of what content mills say, writing essays for money is unethical. It promotes cheating and commodifies plagiarized work. Entitled students may eventually think that corruption and bribery will help them achieve their goals.

The U.K. government even banned essay mills in 2022 . It’s a criminal offense to sell paid essays or facilitate these transactions. While writing essays for money might not be illegal in the U.S., no educational institution allows it. Students caught submitting paid essays will get sanctioned.

2. Writing Essays for Money Is Unsustainable

Essay writing jobs are unsustainable. Students will stop paying for essays once they find free alternatives, e.g., AI. Content mills only paraphrase AI-generated content, after all. And considering the accessibility of chatbots and paraphrasing tools, students can do that themselves.

Even if the industry survives, essay writing jobs offer no career progression. There’s nowhere else to go. You’ll only increase your income if you exploit the system yourself and start an essay mill.

3. Clients Care Little About Quality

Essay mills rarely teach writing skills. Let’s face it—students pay no attention to quality. They merely want their assignments done. So unlike legitimate publications and agencies, content mills solely focus on churning out thousands of words. You’ll have no reason to upskill.

While writing essays for money could offer some opportunity for practice, it's important to remember that high quality, engaging writing is usually valued more in other writing fields. These fields may also offer better opportunities for improving and honing your writing skills.

4. Essay Writers Make Very Little

Unfortunately, you can’t make a living writing essays. Although essay writing jobs are widely available, they pay terrible rates. There are Fiverr sellers offering 500-word pieces for just $5, and to make matters worse, content mills pay even less. Even if you write 5,000 words a day, you’ll only make around $20 to $50.

5. You Can’t Add Paid Essays to Your Portfolio

You can’t add paid essays to your writing portfolio. They already belong to the buyer. Essay mills even provide contracts stating writers should never upload or repurpose their content.

Either way, publications might not be interested in your experience writing essays. The practice is a freelancing gray area. Just write some new blogs and articles if you have no other samples.

Should You Write Essays for Money?

Writing paid essays is a quick way to make extra cash. With the prevalence and accessibility of essay mills, you could probably land your first gig within hours. Just note that writing essays for money is neither sustainable nor lucrative.

Please explore other freelancing opportunities as your writing career progresses. You’ll find plenty of high-paying projects on LinkedIn, Upwork, ProBlogger, Pitchwiz, and even Facebook. Broaden your options.

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• How to make and sell study notes

How to Effectively Make and Sell Your Study Notes

Published on March 29, 2019 by Raimo Streefkerk . Revised on September 16, 2022.

Studying can be hard, especially when you find yourself trying to maintain your social life, earn some money and still get good grades in school. But there is a way to combine earning money and getting good grades in school, and that’s by selling your study notes.

Table of contents

Getting better grades, why sell my notes, how to effectively make study notes, how to become a top seller.

Before you even think about selling your notes, you need to understand why making them is so important. Making study notes during classes is the best way to remember the essential things you need to know to ace the exam, because writing is proven to be the best method to remember things.

Also, after class, you probably check whether everything in your notes is written down clearly, which means you have already repeated the curriculum twice.

Selling notes is an excellent way to earn some extra money. Basically, you get paid for the hard work you already executed. It’s more fun than the average student side job. If you become a top seller, you might even be able to quit your side job!

On Stuvia , top sellers of study documents earn around $400 each month. Sounds good, right? Besides this, selling notes can teach you some entrepreneurial skills, and if you’re up and running making money, you can always use it to buy notes for that one specific course you really dislike.

Digital or handwritten notes?

First, you have to decide for yourself whether you’d like to use your laptop or you prefer using a notebook. Note, however, that selling handwritten notes can be harder than selling well-structured digital notes.

Digital notes are easier to restructure in terms of layout, structure and chronological order. Digital notes can also be uploaded more easily in order to sell them. Handwritten notes can be convenient if you want to use them yourself to study for the exam.

Focus on key words and concepts

Only the most important details should make the cut. This applies to taking notes during college as well summarizing books. In the end, only the key points – such as names, theories, definitions and dates – should be included. Keep in mind what you want to learn and what you need to remember. This helps you get a grip on the information.

Taking notes from a textbook

After your class, you want to combine the information that you received from the professor with the information from the textbook. It’s also handy to scan what you’re about to read. Now start reading and search for bold words, colored words and bullet points. Use a marker to highlight these, and start highlighting pieces of text that are important as well.

Make the document as clear and appealing as possible

If you are writing the notes, make sure you write clearly and start a new page after each subject/chapter. Often it also helps to use symbols and diagrams. The final tip is to use the method of color coding. Your brain will link color to memory, which makes it easier to remember the notes for your exam.

To really stand out from the crowd, there are a few more steps you can take.

1. Offer a document for free People love free stuff, so make sure to offer at least one document for free. This way you give them a reason to take notice, and it will definitely boost your ratings!

2.Keep your prices affordable Most Stuvia users are students. It’s a well-known fact that students have a low budget, so keep this in mind when setting your prices. You can always raise your prices at a later stage if the documents turn out to be very popular.

3. Inform your audience Great examples of places to share links are Facebook, Twitter, Google+, Pinterest, GroupMe, email, and posting on your student noticeboard. As well as social media, word of mouth is a very valuable tool to promote your documents.

4.Get creative Our top sellers are super creative! For instance, some of them add benefits, such as additional help with assignments, to distinguish themselves from other sellers. Try to come up with your own personal strategy.

Cite this Scribbr article

If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the “Cite this Scribbr article” button to automatically add the citation to our free Citation Generator.

Streefkerk, R. (2022, September 16). How to Effectively Make and Sell Your Study Notes. Scribbr. Retrieved August 5, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/tips/make-and-sell-study-notes/

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Other students also liked, how to avoid plagiarism | tips on citing sources, how to paraphrase | step-by-step guide & examples, how do you read a scientific article, what is your plagiarism score.

Sell a Literature Essay

Would you like to be published online? Work as a freelance writer? Or just make some money off of old essays which are still sitting in your computer? GradeSaver will pay $5 for excellent essays pertaining to our literature titles. If you have written an essay on a classic book, regardless of whether the title appears on our site yet, feel free to send it to us. GradeSaver editors will take a look at your essay, and, if they consider it good enough, will pay you $5 for it.

Essays that we agree to purchase become the sole property of GradeSaver, and may not be resold or otherwise used commercially without GradeSaver’s permission. GradeSaver considers essays NOT purchased by GradeSaver to be and remain the sole property of the person who submits the essays, and such essays will not be used by GradeSaver in any way, shape or form. If your essay or document is purchased and subsequently published online by GradeSaver, you may receive credit as the author of the essay. GradeSaver reserves the right to make any changes we feel are necessary.

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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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Buying College Essays Is Now Easier Than Ever. But Buyer Beware

Tovia Smith

Concern is growing about a burgeoning online market for essays that students can buy and turn in as their own work. And schools are trying new tools to catch it. Angela Hsieh/NPR hide caption

Concern is growing about a burgeoning online market for essays that students can buy and turn in as their own work. And schools are trying new tools to catch it.

As the recent college admissions scandal is shedding light on how parents are cheating and bribing their children's way into college, schools are also focusing on how some students may be cheating their way through college. Concern is growing about a burgeoning online market that makes it easier than ever for students to buy essays written by others to turn in as their own work. And schools are trying new tools to catch it.

It's not hard to understand the temptation for students. The pressure is enormous, the stakes are high and, for some, writing at a college level is a huge leap.

"We didn't really have a format to follow, so I was kind of lost on what to do," says one college freshman, who struggled recently with an English assignment. One night, when she was feeling particularly overwhelmed, she tweeted her frustration.

"It was like, 'Someone, please help me write my essay!' " she recalls. She ended her tweet with a crying emoji. Within a few minutes, she had a half-dozen offers of help.

"I can write it for you," they tweeted back. "Send us the prompt!"

The student, who asked that her name not be used for fear of repercussions at school, chose one that asked for $10 per page, and she breathed a sigh of relief.

"For me, it was just that the work was piling up," she explains. "As soon as I finish some big assignment, I get assigned more things, more homework for math, more homework for English. Some papers have to be six or 10 pages long. ... And even though I do my best to manage, the deadlines come closer and closer, and it's just ... the pressure."

In the cat-and-mouse game of academic cheating, students these days know that if they plagiarize, they're likely to get caught by computer programs that automatically compare essays against a massive database of other writings. So now, buying an original essay can seem like a good workaround.

"Technically, I don't think it's cheating," the student says. "Because you're paying someone to write an essay, which they don't plagiarize, and they write everything on their own."

Her logic, of course, ignores the question of whether she's plagiarizing. When pressed, she begins to stammer.

"That's just a difficult question to answer," she says. "I don't know how to feel about that. It's kind of like a gray area. It's maybe on the edge, kind of?"

Besides she adds, she probably won't use all of it.

Other students justify essay buying as the only way to keep up. They figure that everyone is doing it one way or another — whether they're purchasing help online or getting it from family or friends.

"Oh yeah, collaboration at its finest," cracks Boston University freshman Grace Saathoff. While she says she would never do it herself, she's not really fazed by others doing it. She agrees with her friends that it has pretty much become socially acceptable.

"I have a friend who writes essays and sells them," says Danielle Delafuente, another Boston University freshman. "And my other friend buys them. He's just like, 'I can't handle it. I have five papers at once. I need her to do two of them, and I'll do the other three.' It's a time management thing."

The war on contract cheating

"It breaks my heart that this is where we're at," sighs Ashley Finley, senior adviser to the president for the Association of American Colleges and Universities. She says campuses are abuzz about how to curb the rise in what they call contract cheating. Obviously, students buying essays is not new, but Finley says that what used to be mostly limited to small-scale side hustles has mushroomed on the internet to become a global industry of so-called essay mills. Hard numbers are difficult to come by, but research suggests that up to 16 percent of students have paid someone to do their work and that the number is rising.

"Definitely, this is really getting more and more serious," Finley says. "It's part of the brave new world for sure."

The essay mills market aggressively online, with slickly produced videos inviting students to "Get instant help with your assignment" and imploring them: "Don't lag behind," "Join the majority" and "Don't worry, be happy."

"They're very crafty," says Tricia Bertram Gallant, director of the Academic Integrity Office at the University of California in San Diego and a board member of the International Center for Academic Integrity.

The companies are equally brazen offline — leafleting on campuses, posting flyers in toilet stalls and flying banners over Florida beaches during spring break. Companies have also been known to bait students with emails that look like they're from official college help centers. And they pay social media influencers to sing the praises of their services, and they post testimonials from people they say are happy customers.

"I hired a service to write my paper and I got a 90 on it!" gloats one. "Save your time, and have extra time to party!" advises another.

"It's very much a seduction," says Bertram Gallant. "So you can maybe see why students could get drawn into the contract cheating world."

YouTube has been cracking down on essay mills; it says it has pulled thousands of videos that violate its policies against promoting dishonest behavior.

But new videos constantly pop up, and their hard sell flies in the face of their small-print warnings that their essays should be used only as a guide, not a final product.

Several essay mills declined or didn't respond to requests to be interviewed by NPR. But one answered questions by email and offered up one of its writers to explain her role in the company, called EduBirdie.

"Yes, just like the little birdie that's there to help you in your education," explains April Short, a former grade school teacher from Australia who's now based in Philadelphia. She has been writing for a year and a half for the company, which bills itself as a "professional essay writing service for students who can't even."

Some students just want some "foundational research" to get started or a little "polish" to finish up, Short says. But the idea that many others may be taking a paper written completely by her and turning it in as their own doesn't keep her up at night.

"These kids are so time poor," she says, and they're "missing out on opportunities of travel and internships because they're studying and writing papers." Relieving students of some of that burden, she figures, allows them to become more "well-rounded."

"I don't necessarily think that being able to create an essay is going to be a defining factor in a very long career, so it's not something that bothers me," says Short. Indeed, she thinks students who hire writers are demonstrating resourcefulness and creativity. "I actually applaud students that look for options to get the job done and get it done well," she says.

"This just shows you the extent of our ability to rationalize all kinds of bad things we do," sighs Dan Ariely, professor of psychology and behavioral economics at Duke University. The rise in contract cheating is especially worrisome, he says, because when it comes to dishonest behavior, more begets more. As he puts it, it's not just about "a few bad apples."

Felicity Huffman And 12 Other Parents To Plead Guilty In College Cheating Scandal

"Instead, what we have is a lot ... of blemished apples, and we take our cues for our behavior from the social world around us," he says. "We know officially what is right and what's wrong. But really what's driving our behavior is what we see others around us doing" or, Ariely adds, what we perceive them to be doing. So even the proliferation of advertising for essays mills can have a pernicious effect, he says, by fueling the perception that "everyone's doing it."

A few nations have recently proposed or passed laws outlawing essay mills, and more than a dozen U.S. states have laws on the books against them. But prosecuting essay mills, which are often based overseas in Pakistan, Kenya and Ukraine, for example, is complicated. And most educators are loath to criminalize students' behavior.

"Yes, they're serious mistakes. They're egregious mistakes," says Cath Ellis, an associate dean and integrity officer at the University of New South Wales, where students were among the hundreds alleged to have bought essays in a massive scandal in Australia in 2014.

"But we're educational institutions," she adds. "We've got to give students the opportunity to learn from these mistakes. That's our responsibility. And that's better in our hands than in the hands of the police and the courts."

Staying one step ahead

In the war on contract cheating, some schools see new technology as their best weapon and their best shot to stay one step ahead of unscrupulous students. The company that makes the Turnitin plagiarism detection software has just upped its game with a new program called Authorship Investigate.

The software first inspects a document's metadata, like when it was created, by whom it was created and how many times it was reopened and re-edited. Turnitin's vice president for product management, Bill Loller, says sometimes it's as simple as looking at the document's name. Essay mills typically name their documents something like "Order Number 123," and students have been known to actually submit it that way. "You would be amazed at how frequently that happens," says Loller.

Using cutting-edge linguistic forensics, the software also evaluates the level of writing and its style.

"Think of it as a writing fingerprint," Loller says. The software looks at hundreds of telltale characteristics of an essay, like whether the author double spaces after a period or writes with Oxford commas or semicolons. It all gets instantly compared against a student's other work, and, Loller says, suspicions can be confirmed — or alleviated — in minutes.

"At the end of the day, you get to a really good determination on whether the student wrote what they submitted or not," he says, "and you get it really quickly."

Coventry University in the U.K. has been testing out a beta version of the software, and Irene Glendinning, the school's academic manager for student experience, agrees that the software has the potential to give schools a leg up on cheating students. After the software is officially adopted, "we'll see a spike in the number of cases we find, and we'll have a very hard few years," she says. "But then the message will get through to students that we've got the tools now to find these things out." Then, Glendinning hopes, students might consider contract cheating to be as risky as plagiarizing.

In the meantime, schools are trying to spread the word that buying essays is risky in other ways as well.

Professor Ariely says that when he posed as a student and ordered papers from several companies, much of it was "gibberish" and about a third of it was actually plagiarized.

Even worse, when he complained to the company and demanded his money back, they resorted to blackmail. Still believing him to be a student, the company threatened to tell his school he was cheating. Others say companies have also attempted to shake down students for more money, threatening to rat them out if they didn't pay up.

The lesson, Ariely says, is "buyer beware."

But ultimately, experts say, many desperate students may not be deterred by the risks — whether from shady businesses or from new technology.

Bertram Gallant, of UC San Diego, says the right way to dissuade students from buying essays is to remind them why it's wrong.

"If we engage in a technological arms race with the students, we won't win," she says. "What are we going to do when Google glasses start to look like regular glasses and a student wears them into an exam? Are we going to tell them they can't wear their glasses because we're afraid they might be sending the exam out to someone else who is sending them back the answers?"

The solution, Bertram Gallant says, has to be about "creating a culture where integrity and ethics matter" and where education is valued more than grades. Only then will students believe that cheating on essays is only cheating themselves.

The 25 Best Ways to Make Money Online for Beginners: $500+ per Month

Want to make money online, but aren’t sure where to start?

The good news is there are a ton of ways to make money online — even if you’re a beginner.

In this guide, I’ll show you the best, most realistic ways to make money online and start to build an extra income stream. This list is based off:

• 20 years of personal experience making money online
• Interviews with over 500 successful entrepreneurs
• Feedback from the 50,000+ member Side Hustle Nation community

Of course, there’s a learning curve to each of these, but everything is learnable. Every expert was once a beginner, and you can get there too with dedication and commitment.

For over 25 years, the American Writers and Artists Institute has been helping people get paid for freelance writing.

Check out their free 9-Step Blueprint to learn more.

The best place to find legit work from home jobs. Established in 2007, FlexJobs has 1000s of listings including part-time, full-time, and freelance options in tons of industries.

User Interviews is a legit facilitator of online (and in-person) consumer research studies. Participants can get paid (generally $50-150/hr) to share their opinion and shape future products and services. While this won’t replace your day job, it can be a nice supplemental income.

1. Freelance Writing

2. online surveys, 3. remote market research studies, 4. get paid to test websites, 5. find a remote job, 6. make and sell printables, 7. sell stuff you don’t use, 8. online arbitrage, 9. self-publishing, 10. create helpful content, 11. affiliate marketing, 12. data annotation, 13. print on demand, 14. make youtube videos, 15. tutoring, 16. teach a group class online, 17. mechanical turk, 18. teach an online course, nielsen computer & mobile panel, mobilexpression, 20. become a virtual assistant, 21. play mobile games, 22. collect real estate cash flow, 23. cash back apps, 24. write articles on medium, 25. consignment sales, frequently asked questions.

Freelance writing continues to grow as more companies outsource their content creation.

Writers command anywhere from $50-500 or more per article, and can connect with clients on platforms like Upwork and Fiverr .

For example, Georgia Austin started her freelance writing business on Fiverr , and got her first orders right away. The more you practice your writing, the faster you’ll get.

• Great earning power.
• Work from anywhere.
• Well-established company and training.
• Still "active" income.
• You'll need to learn to get clients.

Free Resource: Your 9-Step Blueprint to Making Money as a Writer

One of the most popular ways to make money online is to take online surveys. There are many different types of online surveys you can take, but don’t expect to quit your day job doing these.

Most online surveys pay between $0.50 and $5.00 per survey, and a realistic target may be $30 a month.

Here are some of Side Hustle Nation’s top picks:

• Swagbucks – Earn up to $35 a survey with this mega-popular app, and get a $10 bonus  just for signing up!
• Survey Junkie – Take 3 surveys a day and earn up to $100 a month.
• KashKick – Get paid to answer surveys, test games, and try new products.
• Product Report Card – Get notified about higher-paying product tests, clinical trials, and online focus groups.
• American Consumer Opinion – Join millions of free members and earn up to $50 per survey.
• InboxDollars  – Get a  $5 bonus just for signing up!
• iSay – One of the largest and best-rated survey panels.

Many companies conduct market research to get feedback on new products — and a lot of this research is done online.

Earn $50-150/hr, with thousands of new studies added each month.

Earn an average of $75 per project, and get notified of upcoming studies you may qualify for.

Patients and caregivers can earn $120/hour while helping advance medical research.

User Interviews and Respondent.io are a pair of cool services that facilitate those interviews online and over the phone.

The best part? The average compensation is $50-150 an hour!

Here are some other companies that facilitate focus groups and paid research studies .

Sites like UserTesting and Intellizoom pay you to give feedback on websites. It’s free to sign up and you’ll record your screen while you test features and functionality.

These typically pay $10 for every 20-minute test, but they fill up fast!

One of the simplest ways to make money online is to simply find a flexible work-from-home job. This could be part-time or full-time, and the leading resource to find these opportunities is FlexJobs .

FlexJobs has thousands of listings for all experience levels. There is a nominal charge to use the site, but you’ll easily earn it back with one job.

To learn more about how it works, check out our full FlexJobs review .

Many people make money online by selling printables on Etsy . This is a cool beginner-friendly side hustle where you can create something once and sell it over and over again.

What are printables? Think digital files like:

• budget templates
• chore charts
• workout planners
• habit trackers
• business forms

Here’s a free guide to the best-selling digital products month-by-month to get your creative juices flowing.

To learn more, check out my interview with Rachel Jones . When we spoke, she was earning $10,000 a month from her portfolio of printables.

Selling stuff you no longer need is another popular way to make money online for beginners. You can sell old clothing, books, sports equipment, and electronics on eBay, OfferUp , or Facebook Marketplace.

We recently cleaned out our garage and sold $700 worth of stuff on Facebook Marketplace!

Once you’ve emptied out your available inventory, check out this list of the best items to flip for a profit and go look for some more products to resell.

With online arbitrage , you buy inventory from one website to resell on another (usually Amazon). It’s amazing to me that this is a thing, but it very much is.

When I sat down with Chris Grant, he described selling $75,000 worth of products in a typical month!

Online arbitrage is beginner-friendly because you can start with any level of inventory investment you’re comfortable with, and scale up as you learn more and see results.

E-books are one of my favorite ways to make money online. I earned my first author royalties in 2012, when I definitely was a beginner!

It takes some time and effort to create a quality book, but once it’s written, you can sell it over and over again. My books are all self-published on Amazon , and I’ve earned over $80,000 in lifetime author royalties.

On The Side Hustle Show, we’ve covered several varieties of self-publishing, including:

• Children’s books
• “Low content” books — journals, notebooks, workout logs, etc.
• Public domain publishing

The days of blogging as a personal journal may be long gone, but creating helpful content is still a viable way to make money online. Is there a topic you have a special interest or expertise in?

If you can answer questions on that topic, you’ll start to pick up traffic. From there, you can monetize with advertising, affiliate partnerships, or even your own products and services.

For example, Scott Keller created a bird watching blog that now generates 6-figures in annual income .

Here’s my free video guide to getting your website online quickly and affordably .

One of the most popular ways to make money online is through affiliate marketing.

How it works is you earn a commission for referring people to the products or services you love. This has been my primary source of online income for the last 15+ years, and I routinely earn $10k+ per month from affiliate marketing.

Like most side hustles, there’s a lot to learn to go from beginner to advanced. If you want to become an affiliate marketer, the first step is to choose a niche you’re passionate about or at least interested in.

One common way to start is by creating in-depth product comparison content, like Tami Smith did with her fitness website .

Remotasks  is a unique way to earn money from home in your spare time. How it works is you provide feedback on AI responses, based on how well they answered the prompt.

The onboarding process was a bit tedious and confusing, but I earned $15 an hour after I made it through.

Check out our full Remotasks review to learn more.

Print on demand is a great way to make money online because you can sell physical products without holding any inventory.

How it works is you:

• Upload your designs to sites like Merch by Amazon or Redbubble
• When someone orders, the site prints and ships the item on your behalf
• You collect a royalty on each sale

My wife and I love to see the Redbubble sales notifications come through — sometimes from designs we uploaded years ago!

Check out the best print on demand sites to get started.

My YouTube income is currently my favorite revenue source — lately around $500 a month.

Your channel needs to reach certain milestones before you can start earning with YouTube ads, but it’s a beginner-friendly side hustle. You can start in your spare time and slowly build up your catalog of content.

The types of videos that perform best for me are the ones that target a specific search phrase. Sometimes I’m not even on camera — it can just be a screen recording that explains how to do a certain task.

And the cool thing? Some of these videos still rack up views and passive income years after I posted them.

Many students and parents are turning to online tutoring for academic help. One of the largest marketplaces in the online tutoring world is WyzAnt , where you can create a listing and set your own rates.

In this post, Matt Fuentes shared how he built his tutoring business up to $1000 a week.

If you have some subject-matter expertise, you could create a live interactive class for kids on Outschool . For example, Jade Weatherington earns $10k a month teaching mostly English writing classes.

Related: The Best Side Hustles for Writers

And if academics aren’t your thing, there may still be an opportunity here. I was surprised to find out there’s quite a bit of demand for video game classes !

In fact, I met with Devyn Ricks, who reported earning $4000 a month playing video games with kids.

Amazon’s Mechanical Turk is a site where you can complete micro-jobs, usually for pennies apiece. This likely won’t amount to a great hourly rate, but is a relatively simple way to make money online for beginners.

And those pennies can add up — one Side Hustle Nation reader reported earning over $50,000 on the site (over the course of several years).

What do you know more about than the average person? Other people might pay for what you already know!

For example, Teresa Greenway earns thousands of dollars a month from her courses on baking sourdough bread. Udemy is a leading platform to sell your course online.

19. Sell Your Data

Did you know that companies will pay you just to install their apps and let them run in the background on your devices?

Selling your data is an easy way to make extra money from what you’re already doing.

Nielsen — yes, the same Nielsen that’s been reporting TV viewership data for decades — rewards you for sharing your Internet usage behaviors. All you have to do is download the app to your devices, and earn up to $50 a year.

MobileXpression pays you in exchange for data from your mobile phone.

The app works in the background recording your browsing habits while you use your phone. You’ll earn weekly credits redeemable for gift cards to popular retailers.

Get a free $5 Amazon gift card after your first week (if you’re in the US) .

The free Pogo app is one of my latest finds. By sharing your location and credit card transaction data, Pogo gives you points that you can cash out to PayPal or Venmo.

Just enable location tracking and link your bank account credentials when you sign up. Based on my results so far, I expect Pogo to be worth around $5-20 a year. 

If you have administrative skills and a knack for organization, becoming a virtual assistant could be a solid side business idea. I’ve hired virtual assistants for:

• Inbox management
• Social media marketing
• Graphic design
• Content writing
• Podcast editing
• Recurring weekly processes

You can set up shop on your own, or try and hire on with an established virtual assistant company like BELAY or Time Etc .

Swagbucks has paid out over $550 million to users over the last 10+ years.

Get paid to test new games, complete offers, and answer short surveys.

Discover games, earn "gems", and cash out for gift cards.

If you already love playing mobile games, this is probably the easiest way for you to make money online.

Several apps will pay you to download and try out new games, and you can earn more by reaching certain milestones within a specified period of time.

Where does the money come from? These apps get paid by game developers who want to get new users to play their games. The apps then share a portion of that money with you, the user.

Companies like Fundrise allow you to invest in revenue-generating commercial real estate for as little as $10.

Fundrise is one of the best and largest crowdfunded real estate investment platforms, with $7B under management. The company makes institutional quality investments available to everyone, starting at just $10.

• Start with just $10
• Quarterly cash flow
• Instant diversification
• Healthy historical performance
• Lower volatility
• Not as diversified as public REITs
• Limited operational track record
• Weaker upside

I’ve been a Fundrise investor for years and keep adding to my portfolio. They’ve paid dividends every 3 months so far.

Disclosure: When you sign up through my referral link, I receive a commission. Opinions are my own.

One of the easiest ways to make extra money is to take advantage of the different cash back apps that are out there.

My favorites include:

• Fetch – Scan your grocery receipts to earn extra cash back on over 250 brands.
• Rakuten – Earn 1-15% cash back on your online shopping.
• DOSH – Get bonus cash back at nearby stores and restaurants.
• Upside – Get up to $150 a year cash back on gas, groceries, and restaurants.
• Ibotta – Consistent users earn over $100 a year in extra cash back on groceries and household essentials.

On Medium.com , you can earn money from your writing once you have just 100 followers. The platform collects money from subscribers, and then divvies it out to writers based on how much time people spend on your articles.

If you can publish consistent, high quality content, it’s a way to make money online without worrying about the technical or marketing aspects of blogging.

With a consignment business , you can make money selling other people’s stuff. That means you have very little startup costs — you just need to source your inventory.

To start, offer to help people in your neighborhood sell their unwanted furniture, clothing, or other items on eBay or Facebook Marketplace. A typical consignment fee is 30-40%, meaning if you sell an item for $100, you’d keep $30-40 and pass the rest along to the owner.

This could work well if you already have experience selling secondhand items and can take good product photos.

How to Make Money Online for Beginners: Your Turn

As you can see, there are a ton of different ways to make money online for beginners. And as your skills and expertise grow, you can advance to more complex business models (if you want to!).

The main thing to keep in mind is to find something that works for you and your lifestyle. Some people are better suited to writing, while others are more comfortable in front of the camera.

Have you tried any of these options already? Are there any other ideas that we missed? Let us know in the comments below!

• Join the world’s largest community of side hustlers by entering your email below the FAQs.
• Subscribe to The Side Hustle Show in your podcast app:

The award-winning Side Hustle Show is a Top 10 Entrepreneurship podcast with over 1,200 5-star ratings!

Listen in your favorite podcast app or directly in your browser.

What are the best ways to make money online for beginners?

The best ways to make money online for beginners include freelance writing, testing websites, completing surveys, tutoring, and more. Be sure to check the full list on SideHustleNation.com for more ideas.

How can I make $100 a day on the Internet?

The most straightforward way to make $100 a day online is to do freelancing or consulting work. You could help clients with content writing, social media, administrative tasks, software help, graphic design, tutoring, voice over projects, and more. From there, you can work on creating written or video content that’s monetized with ads.

How can a beginner make money fast?

To make money fast, look at options like delivery apps, freelancing your skills, or selling unwanted items around the house. Be sure to check the full list on SideHustleNation.com for more ideas.

Like That? There's More!

Join the 100,000 who get my best stuff via email.

I'll also send you my free guide: The 5 Fastest Ways to Make More Money .

You're in! Make sure to check your email (including spam/promotions) for your free welcome gift.

About the Author

Nick Loper is a side hustle expert who loves helping people earn more money and start businesses they care about. He hosts the award-winning Side Hustle Show, where he's interviewed over 500 successful entrepreneurs, and is the bestselling author of Buy Buttons , The Side Hustle , and $1,000 100 Ways .

His work has been featured in The New York Times, Entrepreneur, Forbes, TIME, Newsweek, Business Insider, MSN, Yahoo Finance, The Los Angeles Times, The San Francisco Chronicle, The Financial Times, Bankrate, Hubspot, Ahrefs, Shopify, Investopedia, VICE, Vox, Mashable, ChooseFI, Bigger Pockets, The Penny Hoarder, GoBankingRates, and more.

5 thoughts on “The 25 Best Ways to Make Money Online for Beginners: $500+ per Month”

Hi, just to let you know, you have a typo in the Redbubble url in Section 12 of this page.

Thanks for the heads up — fixed now!

I am not replying to anything but want to express my thoughts if I can. Your draw is 28 ways to make money. Why is it that you have to ask for $9 and give us only 12 minutes to find it? Every single time, without fail, these types of ads finish up wanting cash. I did not have $9 in my account and would have to go to the bank to put cash in. This would take more than 12 minutes. I am 84 lost everything in 2013 and am tired of finding sites that do not deliver. Unless I pay the $9 it seems I do not get to see what you are saying. 28 ways to make money online.

Hi Anne, sorry for the confusion. This entire post is completely free to read, and I have other optional products that some readers choose to purchase.

Real hustler in the house got four kids to feed dont have no time for spammers scammers or haters …Any love showed will be reciprocated in various ways im a jack of all trades just getting started with some 0nline classes and i definatly could use any suggestions you have how to make ends meet online God bless …

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How do I price my study notes?

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How can I earn money with my notes?

You can make money by selling copies of your class notes online. Other students studying the same or similar courses might well be willing to pay for your notes, especially if you take the time to make your notes as useful as possible. (For instance, you could include subheadings, bullet points, and academic references.) You could also potentially make money by taking notes for someone else, most likely as a student support “note taker” for someone with a disability or difficulty that makes it hard for them to write notes during class.

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Forget Selling Your Blood for Money: Here Are 3 Painless Side Hustles You Can Try

Published on Aug. 9, 2024

By: Maurie Backman

• Selling blood is something you can't always do, and even when you can, there tend to be restrictions.
• Rather than bank on it for extra income, look at options like driving for a ride-hailing service or online content writing and editing.
• You can also sign up to care for pets if you don't want to deal with people.

People often joke about selling their blood for cash when money gets tight and they need a boost to their savings account . But actually, it's not just a joke.

Due to safety concerns, donors are not compensated for regular blood donations. However, certain blood donation programs may be eligible for compensation, such as donating plasma. The Red Cross, for example, has a special donor program that compensates participants up to $350 for certain blood collections, including white blood cells.

For one thing, there are certain health requirements you might need to meet before you're allowed to donate. And depending on the nature of your donation, you may be sidelined for a bit of time after the process is over. So it's probably not the best idea to turn selling blood into a regular side hustle.

And besides, there are usually mandatory waiting periods between donations that may not align with your financial needs. With that in mind, here are a few far less painful side hustles you can try to drum up consistent cash.

1. Driving for a ride-hailing company

If you have a car and don't mind spending time behind the wheel, driving for a ride-hailing service could be a great way to put extra cash in your bank account. And the nice thing about a gig like this is that it's flexible.

Don't want to work next Friday night because you have family in town? Don't log into the app and accept passengers. It's as simple as that.

Also, if you're someone who works at a desk job all day, you may not relish the idea of doing after-hours data entry or web design at home. Driving people around gets you out and about, and you might even meet some interesting folks along the way.

2. Writing or editing online content

If you work outside the home, you may want a side hustle that doesn't require you to leave the house at night. And if you have kids and child care is an issue, you might need a remote side hustle. Otherwise, the amount you spend on a babysitter could wipe out your extra earnings.

If you're good with words, it pays to look at online content writing gigs. And there are many different types. You may get hired to create marketing materials for a retail company. Or you might update a company's blog or write homeowner guides for a contracting firm looking to drum up business.

If you don't love the idea of having to create content, you may be able to get a job editing it. To do this, though, you need a keen eye for detail and a strong understanding of grammar. You should also familiarize yourself with different online writing guidelines, like Associated Press (AP) style.

3. Caring for pets

If your job has you interacting with people all week, you may not have the patience to do more of the same on the side. But why talk to people when you could instead cuddle puppies or watch cute little kittens roam about?

There are plenty of pet owners who need their animals cared for while they're away. Create an account on an app like Rover so you can connect with people who want their pets looked after in their homes or in yours. You might risk the occasional cat scratch or dog nip, but you at least won't be forced to have a needle plunged into your vein.

Donating blood is a wonderful thing. And you don't have to feel guilty about being compensated for it if you participate in a specialized donation program -- especially since that might require an extra time commitment on your part.

But if you're looking for a steady side hustle, giving blood for money probably isn't it. So it pays to explore your options for finding a gig you can do regularly that works wonders for your budget .

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Maurie Backman is a personal finance writer covering topics ranging from Social Security to credit cards to mortgages. She also has an editing background and has hosted personal finance podcasts.

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More From Forbes

10 websites to sell photos and images online.

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Photographers can earn a wide variety of income from selling their images online.

At a time when just about every business needs content for their digital marketing efforts, photographers have unprecedented opportunities to monetize their work by selling photos online. Whether you're an amateur or a professional, there are numerous platforms where you can sell your photography online and turn your passion into a paycheck. These platforms cater to a wide range of photographic styles and niches, from stock photography websites to specialized marketplaces. Selling your stock photography online not only provides a passive income stream but also exposes your work to a global audience.

Image And Photo Selling Websites

There are numerous ways to go beyond Instagram or Pinterest and utilize one of the many online platforms to earn money by selling photos and images. You can join stock photography websites or sell directly to brands and consumers. Diversifying your approach and not relying solely on one platform or method is advisable, as this can maximize your exposure and income potential.

The methods that make the most money often depend on your niche and the quality of your work. Stock photography sites like Shutterstock and Getty Images offer consistent income opportunities, while platforms like Foap allow earning through brand-specific gigs. While having a background in photography can be beneficial, it is not strictly necessary. Anyone can start selling photos online with the right equipment, creativity and understanding of market demand.

1. Shutterstock

Shutterstock is a leading platform for selling photos, illustrations and vector art. To start selling, photographers must apply and submit a portfolio for review. Once accepted, they can upload their images to the marketplace. There is no upfront cost, but Shutterstock takes a commission on sales.

The site best suits photographers with a knack for commercial and editorial content. It offers a diversified audience, which increases the likelihood of sales. Shutterstock requires high-quality images, and contributors should be familiar with digital editing and stock photography standards. Earning potential varies, with contributors earning between 15% to 40% commission per download.

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Adobe Stock integrates seamlessly with Adobe Creative Cloud, making it a preferred choice for many creatives. To start selling, contributors need to create an Adobe ID, upload their photos, and tag them with relevant keywords. There are no upfront fees; Adobe Stock takes a percentage of each sale.

The platform is ideal for photographers who are already using Adobe software because of its easy-to-navigate integration with the Adobe editing platforms. Adobe Stock looks for high-quality, royalty-free images, including photos, illustrations and vector art. The earning potential ranges from 20% to 60% commission on each sale, depending on the image license type.

Alamy is known for its diverse collection of photos and generous contributor commissions. Photographers can start selling by creating an account and uploading images for review. There are no upfront costs, but Alamy takes a commission on sales.

This platform is suitable for photographers specializing in unique and niche subjects, as Alamy accepts a wide range of content. Contributors should be skilled in capturing high-quality images and keywording them effectively. The site offers a high earning potential, with contributors receiving up to 50% commission on direct sales and 40% on distributor sales.

4. Getty Images

Getty Images is one of the most prestigious stock photo agencies, known for high-quality editorial and commercial content. Photographers must apply and be accepted as contributors, often requiring a portfolio review. Getty Images covers upfront costs, but takes a significant commission on sales.

Ideal for professional photographers with experience in news, sports and commercial photography, Getty Images seeks high-resolution, impactful images. The platform is best suited for those with advanced photography skills and industry knowledge. The earning potential includes commissions ranging from 20% to 30% of the sale price.

iStock, a subsidiary of Getty Images, offers a more accessible platform for selling photos online. To become a contributor, photographers must apply and submit work samples. There are no upfront fees, but iStock takes a commission on sales.

iStock is best suited for photographers who produce high-quality, commercially viable photos, illustrations and videos. Contributors should understand stock photography well and the types of images that sell well. Earning potential varies, with contributors earning between 15% to 45% commission per sale, depending on exclusivity and image type.

6. 500px Marketplace

500px Marketplace is a popular platform for photographers to sell their images and build portfolios. To start, photographers need to create an account and upload high-quality images. The platform takes a commission on each sale but does not charge upfront fees.

This site is ideal for photographers showcasing and selling fine art and creative photography. 500px looks for high-quality, artistic images and offers tools for photographers to engage with the community. The earning potential is competitive, with contributors receiving up to 60% commission on sales, depending on their membership level.

Foap is a unique platform that allows photographers to sell images directly to brands and individuals. To start selling, photographers need to download the Foap app, create an account, and upload their photos. The platform takes a 50% commission on sales.

Foap is best suited for amateur and professional photographers who enjoy capturing everyday moments and commercial-quality images. The platform offers "missions" where brands set specific photo requirements and reward winners. Earning potential varies, with mission payouts often reaching $100 or more per selected image.

8. Dreamstime

Dreamstime is a well-established stock photo agency. To sell on Dreamstime, photographers must create an account and submit their images for review. There are no upfront costs; the platform takes a commission on sales.

This platform is ideal for photographers with a range of high-quality images, from commercial to editorial content. Dreamstime seeks photos with clear concepts and strong visual appeal. Contributors should have good technical skills and an understanding of stock photography trends. The earning potential includes a 25% to 60% commission, depending on the contributor’s exclusivity agreement and the type of sale.

EyeEm combines a photo community with a marketplace where photographers can sell their images. To start selling, photographers must create an account, upload their best shots, and join the marketplace. The platform takes a commission on sales, but there are no upfront fees.

EyeEm is best suited for photographers interested in artistic and commercial photography. The platform offers features like photo missions and partnerships with brands. Contributors should have a strong portfolio and an eye for creative content. Earning potential includes a 50% commission on each sale, with opportunities for additional income through missions and brand collaborations.

Canva, known for its design tools, also offers a marketplace for photographers to sell stock images. To start, photographers must apply and submit their portfolio for review. Canva does not charge upfront fees but takes a commission on sales.

This platform is ideal for photographers who create images that can be used in designs and marketing materials. Canva looks for high-quality, versatile images that fit into templates and designs. Photographers should have experience in creating aesthetically pleasing and functional content for various uses. The earning potential is competitive, with contributors earning a royalty percentage based on the image's usage and sales.

Tips For Selling Pictures Online

To ensure your images are being sold, it's crucial to understand market demand and trends. Focus on creating high-quality, visually appealing images that cater to in-demand niches such as travel, lifestyle, food and business. Proper keywording and tagging of your images are also essential, as they improve the discoverability of your photos on search engines and within the platforms themselves.

Additionally, consistently uploading new content can keep your portfolio fresh and relevant, attracting more potential buyers. Engaging with the community on platforms like 500px and EyeEm can also help increase visibility. Finally, diversifying your portfolio across multiple websites can increase your chances of sales, as different platforms attract different audiences. The true key to success is a combination of quality, consistency, and strategic marketing of your photos.

Bottom Line

Selling photos online offers photographers a lucrative way to monetize their skills, with most making it one of their multiple streams of income. From stock photography to direct sales, diverse platforms cater to different styles and niches. Photographers can significantly boost their income potential by understanding market demands, maintaining quality and leveraging multiple sites.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much do photographers earn.

The earning potential for photographers selling images online varies widely based on factors such as the quality of the images, the platform used and the photographer's level of expertise. Generally, photographers can earn anywhere from a few dollars per image to several hundred dollars per sale, depending on the licensing agreement and usage rights. Stock photo websites often pay contributors a percentage of the sale, typically ranging from 15% to 60%.

Top earners in the industry can make substantial incomes, with some professional photographers earning tens of thousands of dollars per year through online sales alone. For instance, exclusive contributors to high-end platforms like Getty Images can command premium rates, while those selling on more accessible sites like Foap or EyeEm may earn less per image but benefit from higher volume sales. 

How Do You Become A Photographer?

Becoming a photographer requires combining technical skills, creative vision and the right equipment. While formal photography or visual arts education can be beneficial, it is not mandatory by any means. Many successful photographers are self-taught, learning through online tutorials, workshops and hands-on experience. Essential skills include understanding camera settings, lighting techniques, composition and post-production software like Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop.

To become a photographer whose images are bought and sold online, start by building a strong portfolio that showcases your best work. Focus on developing a unique style and capturing high-quality, marketable images that cater to popular niches. It’s crucial to understand the requirements of different online platforms and to ensure your images meet their technical standards. Joining photography communities and staying updated on industry trends can also help you refine your craft and stay competitive. Consistently uploading new content and effectively keywording your images will increase your visibility and sales potential.

How Do You Sell Stock Photos Online?

A stock photo is a professionally shot image that is licensed for specific uses, most commonly in advertising, websites, blogs and other media to visually communicate messages. Stock photos are typically sold through stock photography agencies or websites.

To sell stock photos online, photographers must adhere to certain quality and content standards set by the stock agencies. These requirements usually include high resolution, proper lighting, and a clear subject matter. Additionally, photos must not infringe on any copyrights or trademarks, and model or property releases may be required for identifiable people or locations. 

The income potential from selling stock photos can vary greatly. Some photographers make a few cents to several dollars per download, depending on the platform and the type of license sold. While it is challenging to make a full-time income solely from stock photography, many photographers use it as a supplemental income stream, with top contributors earning significant amounts through consistent uploads and high-quality content.

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Get Paid to Write Articles: 21 Amazing Sites That Will Pay You $100+ Per Article [2023 Update]

Whether you’re a writer looking for established outlets to spread your word or you’re a guest blogger looking to promote your brand and get traffic , you can get paid to write articles.

Many sites will pay you to contribute content , while still allowing you to have a bio and retain a link to your site – but very few sites will pay you really well .

Tip:  Jeff uses BuzzSumo to generate content ideas, create high-performing content, monitor its performance, and identify influencers.

Listed below are 20 sites that will pay you at least $100 per article, upon acceptance or publication, and most will allow a bio with a link back to your site.

Here we go:

BONUS: Want to use your writing skills to earn a side income? Join the Side Hustle Strategies Membership Community to get the inspiration, resources, and community to start and grow your side hustle. 

Sites where you can get paid to write articles:

Fiverr is a freelance marketplace where you can get paid to write articles by creating a “Gig” and becoming a seller.

A gig is purchased every 4 seconds on Fiverr, with freelancers and experts making anywhere from $5 to $15,000+ per project.

The best writers on Fiverr easily make more than $100 per article, so if that’s what you’re after, it’s a great place to start.

2. Greatist

Niche : Mental Health/Relationships/Getting Healthier

Amount : $125+

Payment Method : Unspecified

Greatist is a blog focused on relationships, mental health, and life as it affects 20- and 30-somethings.

They are looking for articles about mental health, relationships, and getting healthier. Greatist also accepts career-related articles (especially when it comes to achieving work/life balance and being more productive), struggles with substance abuse, and social media/technology.

They expect articles to be between 1,000 – 1,500 words and pay at least $125 for each article they accept.

3. Longreads

Niche : Anything

Amount : $250 – $1,500+

Longreads is looking for well-written, well-told, and easy to follow stories that illustrate relatable human experience that their readers can identify with.

They want blog posts, reading lists, short interviews, personal essays, memoirs, critical essays, book reviews, investigative projects, and long-form journalism.

Depending on what category your submission falls into, it can be between 800 to 6,000 words. They pay a minimum of $250 and up to $1,500+ per article.

4. Listverse

Niche : General

Amount : $100

Payment Method : Paypal

Listverse is possibly the foremost authority when it comes to lists online, and they boast an audience of over 15 million readers a month.

They are looking for unique lists of 10 items, usually at least 1,500 words, and they pay $100 upon acceptance of your list.

5. Copyhackers

Niche : Copywriting/Startups/Marketing/Freelancing

Amount : $325

Copyhackers is interested in practical content for startups, marketers, freelancers , and designers.

They are looking for articles that discuss topics that include launching and growing a business, freelancing for lifestyle/money, conversion copywriting, UX and A/B testing, product design, persuasion, and psychology, etc.

Copyhackers expect articles to be in-depth and thoroughly researched. They rarely accept articles less than 2,000 words and want articles to feature a first-person story/account.

They pay $325 per article.

6. Photoshop Tutorials

Niche : Photoshop/Design

Amount : $25 – $300

They are looking for tutorials related to Photoshop, and they pay anything from $50 to $300 per accepted article depending on whether you submit a “quick tip” or a full tutorial.

7. Informed Comment

Niche : Policy/Foreign Policy

Informed Comment is a leading publication about policy and foreign policy. They are looking for articles that can contribute to policy decisions and foreign policy.

Informed Comment is particularly interested in content focused on US foreign policy as well as Middle Eastern and South Asian politics. They also want content that addresses religion, human rights, women’s rights, workers’ rights, religious discrimination, energy, and climate change.

They expect pieces to be between 800 – 1,000 words and pay $100 per accepted piece.

8. The Travel Writer’s Life

Niche : Travel

Amount : $50 – $200

They are looking for articles about the business of getting paid to travel, whether this is through writing, photography, tours or other means.

They pay $50 – $200 per article depending on the type of article.

9. Bitch Media

Niche : Feminism

Amount : $150 – $1,000

Bitch Media is looking for feminism pieces that are well-researched and backed up with evidence and statistics.

They want articles to be discussion-provoking and to make a connection between the writer’s personal experience and larger social forces; they want articles to be a feminist response to pop culture. Articles can be around 1,200 – 3,000 words.

They pay between $150 to $1,000 per article depending on what category your article falls into.

10. UX Booth

Niche : User Experience

UX Booth is an authority when it comes to User Experience, and they are looking for research-backed articles on how to create better user experience.

They prefer articles to be in the 1,200 – 1,800 words range.

11. Cracked

Niche : General/Humor

Cracked is looking for funny and clever articles, mainly in list format, and they pay $50 – $200 per article depending on the type of article.

12. Tuts+ Code

Niche : Web Development

Amount : $100 – $250

They are looking for articles on anything related to web development; this could be PHP, HTML5, CSS3 or anything in between.

They pay $100 for a “quick tip” tutorial and $250 for a regular tutorial.

13. Smashing Magazine

Niche : Design/Coding/User Experience

Smashing Magazine is looking for articles related to web design, graphics design, UX design, WordPress or mobile, and they pay $50 – $200 per article.

14. A List Apart

Niche : Internet

Amount : $200

They accept articles about coding, design, content strategy , user experience and basically internet industry/business.

They prefer articles to be between 1,500 to 2,000 words and they pay $200 per article within a month of publication.

Niche : Web Design/Web Development

Amount : $150

Scotch is looking for articles about web design and development. Articles can be about React, JavaScript, Node, Laravel, Angular, Python, Vue, CSS, and other web development related topics.

They pay $150 per article.

16. Metro Parent

Niche : Parenting

Amount : $35 – $350

Payment Method : Check

Metro Parent is a leading parenting publication looking for parenting articles. They pay $35 – $350 per article and they want features to be within 1,000 – 2,500 words.

Metro Parent has a preference for articles from local freelance writers in the following communities: Livingston, Macomb, Oakland, Washtenaw and Wayne Counties.

They pay via Check upon publication of your article, within the first week of the month of publication.

17. International Living

Niche : Living Overseas

Amount : $250 – $400

Payment Method :

International Living is a publication focusing on living and retiring overseas, and they are looking for articles about living and retiring overseas.

They pay $250 for 840 words, and $400 for 1,400 words. They also pay $50 for one-tine use of your photographs, and they pay upon publication of your article.

18. Sitepoint

Amount : $150 – $200

Sitepoint is an authority when it comes to web development, and they are looking for in-depth articles about HTML, CSS and SASS.

They pay $150 for articles and $200 for tutorials, and they often pay more for articles that are more comprehensive and that they feel will do well traffic-wise.

19. Digital Ocean

Niche : Linux

Digital Ocean is looking for beautifully-written tutorials about Linux and FreeBSD cloud hosting and, besides potentially gaining exposure to their millions of readers, you can also make up to $200 per article.

Your article can come in form of Updates, Simple Tutorials and In-Depth Tutorials, and you can earn $50, $100 or $200 respectively depending on what category it falls into.

20. Tuts+ Vector

Niche : Vector

Tuts+ Vector is looking for articles related to Adobe Illustrator, Adobe InDesign, CorelDRAW and other vector-related tutorials.

They pay $50 – $200 depending on the nature of your contribution.

21. The Penny Hoarder

Niche : Finance

Amount : Up to $75

The Penny Hoarder is a leading personal finance publication, and they are looking for articles mostly based on personal experience. Especially ones containing detailed numbers, strategies and advice about saving or earning money.

They prefer articles to be 700 – 900 words, and they pay up to $75 per article depending on a lot of factors; you might need to reach out to their editor first to discuss payment.

Bonus: 50 Websites that Pay You to Write [PDF]

Do you love the above list? Awesome. There’s more where it came from.

As a bonus to Jeff Bullas’ readers, you can also get my report featuring a total of 50 websites that pay writers, most of which pay more than $50 per article, for free.

The report features websites in more than a dozen categories and contains all the information you need to pitch these sites and get paid to write articles for them. If you’re a writer looking to get paid for your content, this list is invaluable.

Get paid to write articles by downloading the PDF below:

Download the PDF List

Faqs about freelance writing

How much do freelance writers get paid per word.

Image Source

Wondering what the average rate is for a freelance writer? According to our sources, 28.9% of writers charge between 21 cents and 30 cents per word. Not bad if you ask us!

How much do freelance writers make per month?

If you’re thinking about kickstarting a career in freelance writing, you might be wondering how much freelance writers get paid per month on average. According to the data we found, the majority (42%) of writers make between $2000 and $5000 per month, with an impressive 21% making between $5000 and $10,000 per month.

How much do pro bloggers pay per article?

How much can you expect to charge per article? The majority of pro bloggers are willing to pay $50 to $100 per article. Not too shabby!

How many clients do freelance writers have?

Lots of writers prefer to work with clients long-term rather than having to go out and find new work every month. According to this data we found, almost half of the writers surveyed work with three clients at any one time.

Guest author:   Bamidele Onibalusi is a world-renowned blogger and freelance writer. Huffington Post calls him an “ultimate business success story” and he’s been featured in Forbes and Digital Journal amongst others. He blogs at Writers in Charge .

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