Imagine this: sitting at your favourite coffee shop, typing away on your laptop, and getting paid for the stories swirling around in your head. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, it’s more real than you think.
Yes, you can actually get paid to write short stories. And we’re not talking about loose change—there are websites and publications out there paying anywhere from $50 to $500 (sometimes even more) for original, well-crafted short fiction.
Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been writing for years, there’s a market for your stories. The tricky part? Knowing where to submit. That’s why I’ve put together this list of 15 legit websites that pay writers for short stories. I’ll break down how much they pay, what they’re looking for, and how to submit your work.
Stick around until the end for a few extra tips that could make the difference between a rejection and an acceptance.
Let’s be honest—writing short stories is fun. But getting paid to do what you love? Even better.
Short stories might be small in word count, but they’re big in opportunity. Publications, literary magazines, and online platforms are constantly looking for fresh voices to entertain, inspire, or challenge their readers. That means there’s a steady demand for short fiction across genres—from literary dramas to sci-fi adventures.
Why should you consider it?
You can earn while you build your writing portfolio.
It’s a great way to test different styles and genres without committing to a full novel.
And let’s not forget—it feels pretty amazing to see your name in print (with a paycheck attached).
If you’ve got a knack for storytelling and a few thousand words to spare, this is a fantastic way to turn your creativity into cash.
15 Best Platforms That Pay for Writing Short Stories
1. Freelancer
Payment Range: Varies widely (usually project-based, anywhere from $10 to $500+)
Genres Accepted: Depends on client → fiction, short stories, content writing, etc.
Word Count: Based on project requirements
Submission Guidelines: Create a profile on Freelancer.com, browse writing gigs under the “Creative Writing” or “Short Story” categories, and bid on projects.
Freelancer isn’t a magazine or publisher—it’s a freelance marketplace where clients post jobs, and you pitch yourself as the writer for hire. You’ll find everything from romance short story gigs to ghostwriting anthologies here.
Pro Tip: Build a standout profile and use samples of your short stories to win bids. Starting with lower-priced gigs can help you earn reviews and climb up.
2. Penpee
Payment Range: Royalties based on reader credits (around $0.01–$0.02 per credit)
Genres Accepted: Almost anything—romance, sci-fi, thriller, drama
Word Count: Short stories, broken into chapters
Submission Guidelines: Sign up at Penpee.com, upload your story, and earn credits as readers unlock your chapters.
Penpee is kind of like Netflix for short stories—readers pay credits to unlock chapters, and you earn royalties based on how many people read your work. It’s a slow build, but it’s great for testing out your stories on a real audience.
Pro Tip: Short, punchy chapters work best here. Think binge-worthy storytelling!
3. Writers Online
Payment Range: Varies (writing competitions, freelance calls, magazine submissions)
Genres Accepted: Fiction, non-fiction, poetry (depends on opportunity)
Word Count: Varies per opportunity
Submission Guidelines: Visit writersonline.co.uk → check their “Competitions” and “Writing Jobs” sections for latest calls.
Writers Online is more of a hub for writing opportunities than a direct buyer of your stories. But it’s packed with competitions and paid calls for submissions that change every month. If you love trying your luck with contests or unique anthologies, this is the site for you.
Pro Tip: Subscribe to their newsletter so you never miss a deadline.
4. Fiverr
Payment Range: You set your rates (common starting price: $5–$100+ per story)
Genres Accepted: Any (depends on client requests)
Word Count: You define your package (e.g., 1,000 words, 3,000 words, etc.)
Submission Guidelines: Create a gig on Fiverr under “Creative Writing” → offer short story writing services for buyers to purchase.
Fiverr lets you sell your writing skills directly. You won’t submit stories to a magazine; instead, you’ll be writing short stories on demand for clients. It’s perfect if you like creating custom stories—whether it’s romantic fanfiction or children’s bedtime tales.
Pro Tip: Offer “extras” like faster delivery or extra words to boost your earnings per gig.
5. Medium
Payment Range: Varies based on reading time and engagement (writers report $5–$100+ per story)
Genres Accepted: Anything—from fiction and personal essays to opinion pieces
Word Count: No strict limit, but stories between 1,000–2,500 words perform well.
Submission Guidelines: Sign up for Medium’s Partner Program → publish your story directly on Medium → earn money as paying members read your work.
Medium isn’t a traditional publisher, but it’s a powerful platform to earn while building your audience. The more people who read (and love) your story, the more you get paid. Plus, if your story gets curated, it can reach thousands of new readers.
Pro Tip: Add compelling headlines and tags so your story gets discovered. And consistency is key—publish regularly for better visibility.
6. Longreads
Payment Range: $500 for original features, $250 for personal essays
Genres Accepted: Non-fiction, memoir, reported features (but they’ve been known to take narrative-driven writing too)
Word Count: Minimum 1,500 words; most stories run 3,000–6,000 words
Submission Guidelines: Pitch your idea via email → if accepted, submit the full story.
Longreads loves deep, thoughtful storytelling—whether it’s an investigative piece or a personal narrative that packs an emotional punch. It’s perfect if your “short story” leans toward literary non-fiction.
Pro Tip: Read their previously published essays before pitching. They value unique perspectives and strong narrative voices.
7. Upwork Inc.
Payment Range: Project-based (typically $20–$200 per short story, depending on complexity)
Genres Accepted: Depends on client—can be anything from fantasy to children’s fiction
Word Count: Set by client (usually 1,000–5,000 words)
Submission Guidelines: Create a profile on Upwork → apply for writing gigs under “Creative Writing” → complete milestones or projects as per contract.
Like Freelancer, Upwork is a freelance platform where clients post jobs and you pitch yourself. It’s a great way to get paid to write short stories on demand. The competition can be tough, but higher-paying gigs are out there if you build your profile and ratings.
Pro Tip: Niche down your profile—specializing in a specific genre (like fantasy or horror) can help you stand out and command higher rates.
8. One Story
Payment Range: $500 per accepted story
Genres Accepted: Literary fiction
Word Count: 3,000–8,000 words
Submission Guidelines: Submit through their online portal during open submission windows (usually January–May and September–November).
One Story has a simple but bold concept—they publish just one story at a time, and each story goes out to all their subscribers. That means they’re extremely selective, but also highly respected in the literary world.
Pro Tip: Make sure your story has a complete arc and stands alone. They love well-crafted plots with memorable characters.
9. Flash Fiction Online
Payment Range: $80 per accepted story
Genres Accepted: Flash fiction (any genre)
Word Count: 500–1,000 words
Submission Guidelines: Submit through their website when submissions are open → expect a response in about 8 weeks.
Flash Fiction Online specializes in bite-sized storytelling—if you can pack emotion, plot, and character into under 1,000 words, this is your place. They’re open to speculative, literary, and even funny pieces, as long as they tell a complete story.
Pro Tip: Avoid prose poetry or abstract vignettes—they’re looking for stories, not scenes or experiments.
10. Clarkesworld Magazine
Payment Range: $0.12 per word (up to ~8,000 words)
Genres Accepted: Science fiction, fantasy
Word Count: Up to 8,000 words (though shorter stories are often favored)
Submission Guidelines: Submit via their online form; they respond quickly, usually within days.
Clarkesworld is one of the most respected sci-fi/fantasy magazines out there, and they pay very well. They’re known for bold, imaginative stories with literary polish. If you’ve got an original sci-fi concept or fantastical twist, they want to hear from you.
Pro Tip: They publish stories from diverse voices and international writers, so don’t be afraid to bring your cultural or personal perspective into your world-building.
11. Amazon KDP
Payment Range: Royalties between 35% and 70% (based on pricing and distribution)
Genres Accepted: Any (fiction, non-fiction, and more)
Word Count: No limit, but most short stories fall between 3,000–15,000 words
Submission Guidelines: Upload your story through Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) → set your price and royalties → publish it as an eBook or paperback.
Amazon KDP allows you to self-publish your short stories as eBooks or print-on-demand paperbacks. You control everything from pricing to royalties, and you can reach a global audience instantly. While it’s technically not a traditional publisher, the potential to earn 70% royalties makes it a powerful platform for indie writers.
Pro Tip: Offer your story for free or at a low price initially to gain reviews and build visibility.
12. East of the Web
Payment Range: $25–$50 per accepted story
Genres Accepted: Fiction, romance, mystery, thriller, and others
Word Count: 500–5,000 words
Submission Guidelines: Submit your story through their website. They focus on short stories for online reading.
East of the Web is a short story website that specializes in a wide range of genres. They’re especially interested in quick reads for people who want to enjoy a full story during their lunch break. While they pay per story, the exposure on this platform can help you build a following.
Pro Tip: Keep your stories tight and engaging—audiences want quick reads with satisfying conclusions.
13. The New Yorker
Payment Range: Varies (around $1,000–$2,500 for fiction)
Genres Accepted: Literary fiction, short stories
Word Count: 3,000–10,000 words
Submission Guidelines: Submit through their website → check their submission guidelines for fiction (they accept online submissions for fiction year-round).
The New Yorker is one of the most prestigious publications for short fiction, and their pay rates are reflective of that. While breaking into their fiction section is extremely competitive, getting published here can open doors to bigger opportunities.
Pro Tip: Make sure your story feels fresh and original—this publication loves sharp, insightful narratives that challenge or surprise.
14. The Sun
Payment Range: $300–$2,000 per story
Genres Accepted: Literary fiction, essays, memoir
Word Count: No official limit, but most stories are under 7,000 words
Submission Guidelines: Submit online or by mail. Response times can be slow, but the pay is worth the wait.
The Sun is one of those publications where honest, raw, and authentic writing shines. They focus on meaningful, thought-provoking stories—whether they’re personal essays, creative non-fiction, or literary fiction. If you’ve got a deep, personal story or a piece with social relevance, this is the place to submit.
Pro Tip: Personal stories with emotional depth or social relevance are the best fit for this publication.
15. Barefoot Writer
Payment Range: Varies (around $75–$150 for short stories or essays)
Genres Accepted: Fiction, non-fiction, personal development
Word Count: Varies (usually around 1,000–3,000 words)
Submission Guidelines: Submit through their website after checking their current calls for submissions.
Barefoot Writer isn’t just about writing short stories—it’s about turning your passion for writing into a full-time career. They focus on stories and articles that help people achieve success or share personal experiences. It’s a great place for writers who want to work from home and make a living by writing about personal growth or inspiration.
Pro Tip: Focus on practical, motivational stories that inspire or educate. They love stories that can empower readers.
Conclusion: Your Path to Getting Paid for Short Stories
There you have it—15 amazing platforms that will pay you for your short stories in 2025! Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just getting started, these websites offer an incredible opportunity to showcase your talent, earn some extra cash, and build your writing career.
Remember, every great writer starts somewhere. The more you write, submit, and engage with these platforms, the better your chances of getting noticed. It might take a few tries, but persistence pays off—literally!
So, what are you waiting for? Pick a platform, get started, and begin turning your passion for writing into profit. And if you’ve already had success with any of these platforms, we’d love to hear about your experience in the comments below!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I get paid for my short stories?
Yes! There are many platforms that pay for short stories, including literary magazines, freelance job boards, and self-publishing platforms. Websites like Freelancer, Fiverr, and Clarkesworld Magazine are just a few examples where you can submit your stories and earn money.
2. Can I sell short stories online?
Absolutely! You can sell short stories online through platforms like Amazon KDP, Wattpad, and Penpee, or submit them to literary magazines or websites that pay for fiction. Many sites pay royalties or offer upfront payments.
3. How much does Amazon pay for short stories?
Amazon pays authors a royalty of 35%–70% for eBooks sold through Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP). The exact percentage depends on your pricing and distribution options. You control the price, and the royalties come directly to you.
4. Can I sell my life story for money?
Yes, you can sell your life story! Many writers publish memoirs or personal essays based on their life experiences. You can pitch your story to publishers, literary agents, or self-publish through platforms like Amazon KDP.
5. Can I sell my life story to Netflix?
Selling your life story to Netflix is more complex and involves selling the rights to your story to a production company or agent. If you have a compelling story and find the right people, your story could be adapted for film or television.
6. How do I sell my story for cash?
You can sell your short story by submitting it to publications, literary magazines, or online platforms that pay for fiction. Alternatively, platforms like Fiverr or Upwork allow you to freelance as a writer and get paid to create custom stories for clients.
7. Does Wattpad pay you?
Yes, Wattpad has a Wattpad Stars program where you can get paid for your stories based on reader engagement and if your stories are picked up by publishers or film studios. You can also monetize through advertisements on your stories.
8. Where can I submit my short story?
You can submit your short story to various platforms such as Clarkesworld Magazine, The Sun, Medium, One Story, Flash Fiction Online, and more. Many of these sites offer payment upon acceptance.
9. Is Amazon KDP free?
Yes, Amazon KDP is free to use. You can upload and publish your short stories or books without any upfront costs. You’ll only pay for printing (if you choose paperback) and Amazon takes a small commission from your sales.
10. What short stories sell best?
Short stories that are engaging, well-written, and unique tend to sell the best. Popular genres include sci-fi, romance, fantasy, and thriller. Readers also love stories with emotional depth, surprising twists, or strong characters.
11. Which app is best for writers to earn money?
Some of the best apps for writers to earn money include Wattpad, Medium, Penpee, and Fiverr. These platforms allow you to publish your stories, engage with readers, and earn royalties or freelance payments.
12. How many pages is a short story?
A short story typically ranges from 1,000 to 7,500 words. In terms of pages, that’s usually about 3–25 pages (depending on formatting). The length varies based on submission guidelines or the platform you’re submitting to.
13. Does Pratilipi pay?
Yes, Pratilipi offers a platform where writers can earn money based on the number of reads, likes, and comments their stories receive. It’s a great way for writers to gain exposure while earning for their work.
14. Do Instagram pay for stories?
No, Instagram doesn’t pay for stories directly. However, you can monetize your Instagram account through sponsored posts, partnerships, and affiliate marketing, which can indirectly earn you money by promoting products or services.
15. Who pays for writers?
Writers can get paid by publishers, literary magazines, freelance clients, or platforms like Amazon KDP, Upwork, Fiverr, and Wattpad. The pay varies depending on the platform, type of writing, and the writer’s experience.
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