Freelance writers can earn up to US$6,000 for writing stories, with several international publications currently accepting paid pitches and submissions.
From long-form narrative journalism and sports to politics, culture, food and literary writing, these five publications offer opportunities for writers looking to get paid for their work.
1. The Atavist Magazine
The Atavist Magazine is looking for deeply reported, plot-driven narrative features with compelling characters and a clear storyline. Stories generally range from 8,000 to 30,000 words.
Pay: Baseline fee of US$6,000, plus an expense budget where applicable and quarterly royalties.
Eligibility: Writers from anywhere in the world.
Deadline: Rolling.
2. Defector
Defector accepts pitches for reported stories and essays covering sports, politics, arts, culture and unusual subjects with a strong point of view.
Writers should explain the shape of the finished piece, demonstrate knowledge of the subject and outline how the story will be reported.
Pay: At least US$1,200 for longer essays and reported pieces, while shorter pieces pay a minimum of US$600.
Deadline: Not stated.
3. The Food Section
The Food Section accepts pitches for reported food stories focused on the American South. It looks for original stories with strong sourcing, tension and a clear reason for publication.
Pay: US$1,114.98 for an in-depth feature, US$200 for a short feature and US$150 for a book review.
Pitch route: Phone calls are accepted on Tuesdays from 1pm to 4pm Eastern Time. Book reviews have a separate application process.
Focus: The 11 Southern states and northern Florida.
4. Boston Review
Boston Review accepts pitches and submissions for long-form essays, review essays, interviews, analysis and occasional reported pieces covering politics, ideas, culture and other issues of broad public interest.
Most published essays are between 2,500 and 5,000 words.
Pay: Web pieces generally pay US$300 to US$500 to writers who earn their main income from writing. Other writers receive a modest honorarium.
5. The Baffler
The Baffler accepts nonfiction pitches on politics, culture and society. Writers should describe their proposed project in two paragraphs. The publication also accepts poetry and fiction.
Pay: All contributions are paid, although the exact amount is not stated.
Preferred length: 2,200 to 5,000 words for prose.
Deadline: Not stated.
How much can freelance writers earn?
The payment varies significantly between publications and story types. Among these opportunities, The Atavist Magazine offers a baseline fee of US$6,000, while other publications list payments ranging from hundreds to more than US$1,000 per assignment.
Writers should carefully review each publication’s current pitching guidelines before submitting a story.
