How Writers Can Make Money Online (Old Ways vs. New Ways)
(The only limitation 'honestly' is you)
Many writers love what they do but struggle to make enough money. They pour their hearts into writing, yet it feels like they’re stuck working hard but not earning what they deserve.
For years, the only way to make money as a writer was to get published in a magazine, land a book deal, or work for a company.
But times have changed. Now, writers have many ways to earn online, and some are making more than ever before.
Let’s look at both the old and new ways to make money as a writer and how you can start today.
Old Ways Writers Made Money
These methods have been around for a long time, but they often come with roadblocks. Slow payments, tough competition, and limited control over earnings.
1. Writing for Newspapers & Magazines – Submitting articles and waiting for approval.
2. Publishing a Book – Getting a deal with a publisher (which can take years).
3. Full-Time Writing Jobs – Working for a company as a staff writer.
4. Academic Writing – Writing research papers, essays, or textbooks.
5. Scriptwriting – Creating stories for TV shows, films, or radio.
These paths can still work, but they don’t offer much freedom. Now, let’s talk about the new ways writers are making money; without waiting for permission.
New Ways Writers Are Making Money Online
1. Copywriting – Writing That Sells
How much can you make? $50 – $5,000+ per project
Best for: Writers who enjoy words that persuade
Copywriting is writing that makes people take action—buy a product, sign up for a service, or trust a brand. Businesses pay well for this because good copy brings them customers.
How to Start:
-Write website content for businesses.
- Create email marketing campaigns.
-Write ads for brands that need attention.
But now, you can start your brand on LinkedIn, write copy for yourself, share the results, and do the same for others for free as you grow.
As you keep showcasing your work, prospects will start coming to you. And when you send a pitch or DM, they won’t ignore you.
Tip: The better you understand people’s emotions, the better your copywriting will be.
2. Ghostwriting – Writing for Others, Getting Paid Well
How much can you make? $500 – $15,000+ per project
Best for: Writers who don’t mind staying behind the scenes
Ghostwriters write books, articles, and social media posts for busy people who don’t have time to write. The work pays well because the client gets all the credit.
How to Start:
- Write LinkedIn posts for business leaders.
- Create Twitter/X threads for influencers.
- Help experts turn ideas into books.
Tip: Learn to write in different voices. Without losing your voice. You are helping your clients bring their ideas to life.
3. Self-Publishing – Selling Your Own Books Online
How much can you make? $500 – $100,000+ (depends on how well you market it)
Best for: Writers who want full control over their work
Before, writers had to beg publishers for a chance. Now, you can publish your own books and sell them online. Some writers make more from self-publishing than they would with a big publisher.
How to Start:
- Sell e-books on Amazon Kindle.
- Offer guides or templates on Gumroad.
- Write short stories or niche books for a specific audience.
Tip: Marketing is key. If nobody knows your book exists, nobody will buy it. So still show up and post it on your socials
4 Content Creation – Earning by Sharing Your Knowledge
How much can you make? $0 – $100,000+ per year
Best for: Writers willing to build an audience
Instead of waiting for clients, some writers create their own audience. They share useful content, and people pay for their knowledge.(Like I do on here and on linkedin)
How to Start:
- Write a newsletter and get paid subscribers (like on Substack).
- Start a blog and make money from ads and sponsorships.
- Share valuable content on social media and sell digital products.
Tip: Be consistent. The more helpful content you share, the more people trust you. (This is hectic - but it pays off in the long term you just need to be consistent and have someone to hold your hand along the journey)
5. Coaching & Teaching – Helping Others Write Better
How much can you make? $50 – $5,000+ per session
Best for: Writers who enjoy teaching
People are willing to pay for help. If you know how to write well, you can teach others through coaching, courses, or workshops.
How to Start:
-Offer one-on-one coaching for new writers.
-Create an online course and sell it.
-Run live writing workshops and charge for them.
Tip: Pick a topic that solves a real problem, like "How to Write Twitter Threads That Get Clients."
Where Should You Start?
With so many options, it can be overwhelming. Here’s what you can do:
✅ Pick two income streams—one that pays now and one that grows over time.
✅ Learn from others—follow successful writers and study what they do.
✅ Build an online presence—clients won’t find you if they don’t know you exist.
You don’t have to wait for permission to make money as a writer. The internet has changed everything. The only thing stopping you is action.
Which method interests you the most?
Reply and let me know!
If this helped you, share it with another writer who needs it.
For any questions regarding the above please inbox and I will be happy to answer
I could use some input on your suggestions above. I'm an experienced training and technical writer who's now disabled (20 years). My writing skills are quite flexible and I'm feeling directionless. That said, I need to nail down the best way to bring in income past age 65 (there's no retirement income). Would you be willing to work with me to come up with a plan?