Costs and quotes
How much does it cost to self-publish a book?
Short answerThe cost depends on which steps your book needs: editing, cover design, interior formatting, ISBN and printing. Editing is usually the largest. Setting up on KDP is free, and Kindle ebooks need no ISBN. Get itemised quotes so you can compare like for like.
The cost checklist
| Step | Needed? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Editing | Almost always | Priced per word. See editing costs. |
| Proofreading | Yes, after formatting | Catches typos introduced in layout. |
| Cover design | Yes | Print needs a full wrap (front, spine, back) sized to your page count. |
| Interior formatting | Yes for print | Ebook and print need separate files. |
| ISBN | Print: yes. Kindle: no | Bought from Bowker (US) or Nielsen (UK). Check current prices on their sites. |
| Account setup | Yes | KDP is free to open. Keep the accounts in your name. |
| Printing and proofs | Optional | Print on demand means you do not pay for a stock of books. |
| Marketing | Optional | Start small and track results. |
Where authors overspend
- Paying for marketing before the book is edited and has a strong cover.
- Buying "all-in" bundles that include services the book does not need.
- Paying for things that are free, such as listing on KDP.
How to build your own budget
- Write down your word count and format (ebook, paperback, hardcover).
- Decide the editing level (use our editing guide).
- Get itemised quotes for each step.
- Add them up. Remove anything you do not need yet.
Our packages are built the same way: every item is priced, and removing an item lowers the price by exactly that amount. See all prices.
Not sure what applies to your book?
Author Support gives you a plain-words review of your quote and a written Book Needs Report. $50, with a 100-day refund or package credit.
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