Many aspiring writers and hobbyist authors ask a common question online: What company pays $200 for finishing a novel? The idea of earning money simply for completing a manuscript is undeniably attractive—especially in a world where writing can be both creatively fulfilling and financially uncertain.
But is there really a company offering $200 just for finishing a novel? And if so, is it legit? This article explores the truth behind the question, real opportunities that may offer financial rewards, and smarter ways to get paid for your writing efforts—including the use of ghostwriting services and publishing platforms.
📖 Understanding the Question: What Company Pays $200 for Finishing a Novel?
Before diving into companies and platforms, it’s essential to break down what people mean when they search for What company pays $200 for finishing a novel?
This query often stems from:
- Curiosity about paid writing contests
- A desire to monetize creative work
- Hopes of receiving advances or bonuses
- Interest in writing gigs or platforms that reward effort
Unfortunately, there is no well-known company that will automatically hand over $200 the moment you finish your manuscript—unless it’s through a specific program, challenge, or competition. However, some platforms do provide incentives for completed novels or serialized stories, especially if they gain traction.
✅ Legitimate Platforms That May Offer Rewards
While few companies guarantee a set amount just for completion, some offer compensation models based on performance, submissions, or contest rules.
1. Inkitt
Inkitt is a platform where writers can publish their novels for free. While it doesn’t pay you directly upon completion, popular stories have the chance to be offered a publishing deal.
- How it works: Upload your manuscript, build readership, and if your book performs well based on engagement, you may receive an advance or publishing opportunity.
- Potential Reward: Top authors may receive advances or paid promotions—not always $200, but worth noting.
🎙️ Voice Search Example: “Does Inkitt pay authors for completed novels?”
2. Wattpad Creators Program
Wattpad offers a Writers Program that pays selected authors monthly based on engagement, story completion, and original content.
- Requirements: You must be invited to the program.
- Potential Earnings: Some authors make $100–$1,000+ monthly.
- Relevance: While not guaranteed for everyone, it’s a model where finishing your novel leads to payment opportunities.
3. Royal Road
Popular among web fiction authors, Royal Road supports serialized fiction. Although they don’t pay directly, many writers monetize through Patreon or donations once their work gains popularity.
- Indirect Payment: Writers who finish and publish engaging novels often receive financial support from fans.
- Pro Tip: Consistent updates and completed stories increase chances of support.
4. Contests on Reedsy and Vocal Media
- Reedsy: Offers writing competitions that occasionally focus on longer content, though many are short-form.
- Vocal Media: Pays writers for story engagement. They also run regular contests with cash prizes (up to $20,000).
While neither guarantees $200 just for finishing a novel, both are excellent platforms where completed writing can lead to direct rewards.
🛑 Be Cautious: Avoiding Scams
Unfortunately, the idea of earning money for a completed book also attracts scams. If a website or company claims:
“We’ll pay you $200 just for submitting a novel — no strings attached!”
— be extremely careful.
Red Flags to Watch:
- Vague contracts
- High entry fees
- Promises of “guaranteed money” with no quality review
- No online reputation or verified reviews
Before engaging with any company claiming to pay for completed manuscripts, research thoroughly, check Better Business Bureau ratings, and read author testimonials.
💼 Ghostwriting Services: Another Way to Get Paid for Writing Novels
If your goal is to earn $200—or even significantly more—for writing a novel, one of the most reliable methods is offering your skills through ghostwriting services.
What is Ghostwriting?
Ghostwriting is when a writer creates content on behalf of someone else who receives the credit. This is especially common for memoirs, business books, or fiction projects by public figures.
Why Consider Ghostwriting Services?
- Guaranteed pay: Ghostwriters often receive flat fees or installment payments.
- No need to build an audience: You’re paid for writing, not marketing.
- Work-from-home flexibility: Write novels for clients worldwide.
🎯 Example: Many ghostwriters earn $1,000–$10,000+ per book, depending on word count and complexity.
Where to Find Ghostwriting Gigs:
- Reedsy.com – Professional publishing marketplace
- Upwork.com – Freelance jobs across industries
- Fiverr.com – Offer ghostwriting packages
- PeoplePerHour – Writers for hire
- LinkedIn – Join ghostwriting or publishing groups
If you’re a skilled writer who can meet deadlines, ghostwriting is an effective path to earn money writing books—even if they aren’t published under your name.
📊 What If You’ve Already Written a Novel?
So, you’ve completed your book. Now what?
Here are ways to monetize your finished manuscript, even if no one directly offers you $200 for it:
1. Self-Publishing on Amazon KDP
Publish your book on Kindle Direct Publishing for free and earn royalties. While the payout isn’t immediate, you earn money for every sale.
- eBook Royalties: 35%–70%
- Print Royalties: Based on price minus printing costs
- You control pricing, rights, and promotion
2. Submit to Indie Publishers
Smaller presses often seek completed manuscripts and may offer advances, royalty deals, or revenue-sharing models. While not instant cash, it can add up over time.
3. Enter Book Competitions
Look for competitions that offer cash prizes for complete novels in genres like romance, sci-fi, mystery, or YA.
Popular competitions include:
- Writer’s Digest Annual Writing Competition
- Amazon’s Kindle Storyteller Contest
- The Bath Novel Award
- The Page Turner Awards
🧠 Final Thoughts: So, What Company Pays $200 for Finishing a Novel?
To be direct: there is no single company that pays a flat $200 to anyone who completes a novel. However, multiple platforms offer compensation, rewards, or exposure based on quality, originality, and audience engagement.
If you’re a writer looking to monetize your talent:
- Consider ghostwriting services for guaranteed pay
- Explore self-publishing for long-term income
- Use writing platforms like Wattpad or Inkitt for exposure
- Enter competitions for a chance at real cash prizes
