Online Writing Jobs Online Writing Rates and Income

Question 1

What is the most common pricing model for beginner US freelance writers starting on content mills?

Accepted Answer

Per word rate

Answer

Content mills typically pay beginner writers a per-word rate, often ranging from $0.01 to $0.05 per word.

Question 2

Which pricing model is generally considered most profitable for experienced freelance writers?

Accepted Answer

Per project (value-based)

Answer

Value-based project pricing allows experienced writers to charge based on the business value delivered rather than time or word count.

Question 3

What is a retainer agreement in the context of freelance writing?

Accepted Answer

A monthly fee paid in advance for a set amount of ongoing work

Answer

A retainer is a recurring monthly arrangement where a client pays upfront to secure a writer's ongoing availability and output.

Question 4

According to the Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA), what is the approximate median hourly rate for US freelance copywriters?

Accepted Answer

$50–$80/hr

Answer

The EFA reports median freelance copywriting rates in the US typically fall between $50 and $80 per hour.

Question 5

What does the term 'kill fee' mean in a freelance writing contract?

Accepted Answer

A partial payment made when a client cancels an assigned piece

Answer

A kill fee is a percentage of the agreed rate paid to a writer when a client cancels a commissioned piece after work has begun.

Online Writing Jobs Practice Test