Explore Lucrative Opportunities: Write Personal Essays for Cash
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Chapter 1: Introduction to Earning Through Personal Essays
In my previous article, I explored publications that compensate writers for personal narratives, and the response was overwhelmingly positive. Therefore, I am here again to present additional platforms seeking personal essays!
You might not have considered monetizing your life experiences, but numerous outlets are eager for genuine insights and perspectives from everyday writers like you.
In case you missed my earlier article, feel free to check it out here:
Get Paid to Share Your Life Story ($200 and Up)
5 Publications Seeking Personal Narratives
writingcooperative.com
Chapter 2: More Publications to Consider
Here are more (non-Medium) publications that pay contributors for personal essays.
Section 2.1: DAME
Who They Are
DAME is a prominent magazine that addresses various topics including news, culture, science, politics, and more.
What They Look For
As a women-led publication, DAME seeks narratives that provide a thorough context regarding current issues, emphasizing human experiences. They prefer original, human-centric stories and do not accept poetry, fiction, or previously published works.
Pay: $350-$750
How to Submit:
Propose your story idea via their pitch form. If you’re interested in future contributions but lack an idea, consider joining their Freelance Program.
Example essay:
Lessons From a Fast, Furious Friendship With My Idol | DAME Magazine
In 1988, I had a regular front-row table in a dark East Village club frequented by folk and country musicians...
www.damemagazine.com
Section 2.2: BuzzFeed Reader
Who They Are
BuzzFeed is likely a familiar name, known for its catchy headlines and viral content. Interestingly, they also welcome personal essays and cultural critiques.
What They Look For
They desire fresh viewpoints with a clear central theme that contributes to significant cultural discussions. Topics can range from travel and relationships to mental health and family dynamics.
Pay: Approximately $0.25 per word
Word Count: 1500–2500 words
How to Submit:
Send your pitch or initial draft as a Google Doc or Word file to [email protected]. Due to high submission volumes, you may not receive feedback if your piece is rejected, but accepted submissions typically receive a response within two weeks.
Example essay:
I'm Finally Ready To Talk About How My Parents Died
I know neither has survived the moment I see the EMT return the empty stretcher to the back of the ambulance...
www.buzzfeednews.com
Section 2.3: Extra Crispy
Who They Are
For food enthusiasts, Extra Crispy is an ideal platform, focusing on cooking tips, food travel, and breakfast recipes.
What They Look For
They prefer unique, well-developed ideas infused with personal experiences and credible sources. Thoroughly research their site to ensure your story hasn’t been covered before.
Pay: $0.40- $0.50 per word for essays of 800–1000 words
How to Submit:
Send your pitch to [email protected].
Example essay:
I Always Make This Gorgeous Layered Dessert for Spring Brunch, and It's Always a Hit
It's that time of year: Brunch Season. From Easter Sunday to spring brides and mothers-to-be needing...
www.myrecipes.com
Section 2.4: Christian Science Monitor
Who They Are
Despite its name, the Christian Science Monitor is not focused solely on religious themes but is an international news outlet recognized for its credibility.
What They Look For
They seek original, unpublished first-person essays on diverse topics, steering clear of themes like death or illness. The ideal submission should be engaging, timely, and light-hearted.
Word Count: 600 to 800 words
Pay: $250
How to Submit:
Email your completed essay in Word format with “submission” or “essay” in the subject line to [email protected]. Include your contact information and word count. Accepted pieces are typically acknowledged within four weeks.
Example essay:
I was 3 for 10
I've tried nearly every sport imaginable for as long as I can remember, and I’ve had numerous coaches…
www.csmonitor.com
Section 2.5: Motherwell
Who They Are
Motherwell, co-founded by Randi Olen and Lauren Apfil, is an award-winning publication focusing on modern parenting and family life.
What They Look For
Motherwell welcomes contributions from both parents and invites unique stories that offer insight into parenting experiences.
Word Count: Maximum of 1200 words
Pay: $50
How to Submit:
Include the word count in your submission and send it via Submittable.
Example essay:
Teaching My Kids How to Make Focaccia Helped My Family Find Peace
By Sarah Walker Caron
In the autumn of 2019, long before the pandemic...
motherwellmag.com
Now that you have a comprehensive list, it's time to grab your pen and start crafting your essay!
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Chapter 3: Video Resources
To aid your journey in writing personal essays, here are a couple of informative videos:
Discover three websites that pay up to $750 for each article, and learn how to make money from home by writing in English.
Explore nine innovative methods to earn money through writing online in 2024.