Want to get paid for your fiction? This 2025 guide reveals the best platforms, magazines, and websites where you can submit short stories for real money. Learn where to publish, how much you can earn, and how to increase your chances of acceptance as a new or seasoned writer.
Introduction
Submitting short stories to paying markets isn’t just for literary elites. If you’ve got polished fiction sitting in a folder—or fresh story ideas ready to be shaped—you can earn real money and grow your writing career. In this guide, you’ll discover the best platforms, literary magazines, and genre publications that pay for short stories, plus submission tips, estimated earnings, and answers to the most common questions writers ask.
Whether you’re looking to publish your first piece or monetize your portfolio, these insider strategies will help you get started—fast.
Why Submitting Short Stories Can Be Profitable
Short stories offer a unique and often overlooked stream of income for writers. Here’s why more authors are cashing in on short-form fiction:
- Fast Turnaround: Short stories are quicker to write and revise than novels.
- High Demand: Literary journals, anthologies, and online platforms need fresh content.
- Portfolio Building: Published work helps establish your credibility as a writer.
- Opportunities for Exposure: Being featured in reputable publications can lead to larger opportunities—like book deals or freelance work.
What Editors Want in Short Fiction
Before you submit, understand what editors are looking for:
- Original voice and compelling characters.
- Clear structure with a strong hook and satisfying resolution.
- Genre awareness — know the audience and tone of the outlet.
- Clean formatting (standard manuscript format, double-spaced, Times New Roman).
📌 Pro Tip: Always read a few recent stories published by the platform before submitting to understand their editorial style.
Best Places to Submit Short Stories for Money in 2025
Here’s where your fiction can pay off. This list includes literary, genre, and digital platforms that are open to submissions—and pay well.
A. Literary Magazines That Pay
These traditional outlets offer prestige and good rates.
1. The New Yorker
- Pays: Up to $7,500 per story (reported)
- Genre: Literary fiction
- Status: Extremely competitive but career-defining if accepted
2. Ploughshares
- Pays: $25–$250
- Focus: Fiction, poetry, and essays
- Note: Publishes both new and established voices
3. The Sun Magazine
- Pays: $300–$2,000
- Genres: Personal essays and literary fiction
- Tip: Include emotional or reflective tones
4. AGNI (Boston University)
- Pays: $20–$150
- Focus: Global, thought-provoking narratives
B. Genre-Specific Publications
These markets cater to sci-fi, fantasy, horror, and speculative fiction fans.
1. Clarkesworld Magazine
- Pays: $0.12/word
- Genres: Science fiction and fantasy
- Turnaround: Fast decisions, accepts simultaneous submissions
2. The Dark Magazine
- Pays: $0.08/word
- Genres: Horror, dark fantasy
- Note: Gripping atmosphere and tone is a must
3. Beneath Ceaseless Skies
- Pays: $0.08–$0.12/word
- Genre: Secondary world fantasy
- Submission: Online form, pays on acceptance
C. Online Platforms That Pay Writers
These digital-first platforms reward engagement, traffic, or flat fees.
1. Medium Partner Program
- Earnings: Based on member reading time
- Genres: Wide open — fiction, essays, nonfiction
- Best For: Writers building an audience
2. Narratively
- Pays: $300–$500
- Genres: True personal stories, longform nonfiction
- Note: Must pitch first; narrative depth matters
3. Flash Fiction Online
- Pays: $60 per piece
- Length: 500–1,000 words
- Tip: Focus on economy of language and surprise endings
D. Contests and Anthologies That Pay
Perfect for one-time submissions or themed stories.
1. Chicken Soup for the Soul
- Pays: $200
- Genres: Uplifting, true personal stories
- Bonus: Appears in widely distributed print collections
2. Writer’s Digest Short Story Competition
- Pays: Up to $3,000 (plus publication)
- Genres: Open
- Note: Annual contest with strong visibility
3. Zizzle Literary
- Pays: $100
- Focus: Stories for children and young adults
- Style: Literary, reflective, and layered
Submission Tips for First-Time Writers
To boost your chances of acceptance:
- Follow guidelines exactly—formatting, word count, genre.
- Write a short bio (2–3 lines) with relevant experience or interests.
- Avoid clichés—open with a strong hook.
- Track your submissions using tools like Submittable or an Excel sheet.
- Edit relentlessly—one typo can cost you acceptance.
How Much Can You Earn From Short Story Submissions?
Earnings vary by platform:
| Platform Type | Typical Pay |
|---|---|
| Literary magazines | $100–$2,000+ per story |
| Genre publications | $0.08–$0.12 per word |
| Digital media | Flat fees ($60–$500+) |
| Writing contests | Up to $3,000 in prize money |
Other Ways to Make Money with Short Stories
If traditional submission isn’t your only goal, try these:
- Self-publish a collection via Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP).
- Launch a Patreon where subscribers pay for exclusive content.
- Sell audio rights to podcasts or publishers (e.g., Escape Pod).
- Monetize on Wattpad if accepted into their paid program.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls when submitting:
- Sending to the wrong genre outlet
- Ignoring word count or formatting rules
- Submitting first drafts
- Failing to read the publication’s past work
- Simultaneously submitting without permission
Conclusion: Yes, You Can Make Money with Short Stories
You don’t need to be a bestselling author to make money writing short stories. Start by submitting to smaller outlets, follow guidelines carefully, and treat rejection as feedback. Over time, you’ll build a body of work, credibility, and potentially consistent income from your stories.
If you’re ready to write but need help polishing or formatting your short story, consider hiring a professional ghostwriter or editor to improve your chances of success.
FAQs
Q: Can I submit the same story to multiple platforms?
A: Only if the publisher allows simultaneous submissions. Check each site’s rules.
Q: Do I need to copyright my short story?
A: You automatically own the copyright once you write it. However, you can register it for legal protection.
Q: How do I find more paying markets?
A: Try tools like Duotrope, Submission Grinder, or newsletters like Freedom with Writing.
Q: Should I hire an editor before submitting?
A: Yes, you should hire a professional editor, especially for professional markets. A polished story boosts your acceptance rate.
Q: Which genres pay the most?
A: Literary fiction, science fiction, horror, and fantasy generally offer higher rates.
