Rates for Editorial Services
Professional editing is not inexpensive. But it is a labor-intensive and meticulous process if done the right way. Incorporating a skilled edit as part of your writing process is often a huge factor in getting your book in front of an interested publisher or ready for self-publishing.
I roughly base my fees for editing services on the Editorial Freelance Association’s (EFA) Rate Chart. However, each client’s needs vary so the chart is only a guideline but it will give you an idea of costs for professional editing.
My editing rates are based on a per-word fee model.* While some editors charge per page or hourly, I find calculating the word count of the manuscript takes the guessing out of the equation. But like a per-page model, my fees are based on the industry standard formatted manuscript:
Formatted as: approx. 250-word page, double-spaced, 12-point serif font (such as Times New Roman), and 1” margins in Microsoft Word.
(I require that your MS is in this format for editing purposes.)
Per-word fees range from .0125 to .05+ cents. The range is based on a number of factors, including the status of your manuscript, editing services required, and complexity/scope of the edit.
Proofreading – begins at .0125 cents/word
Copyediting – begins at .020 cents/word
Developmental/Structural editing – begins at .025 cents and ranges up to .05+ cents/word
*All fees are subject to change, but not without notifying the client.
I do offer a secondary review which is built into my per/word rate. This occurs after you’ve incorporated initial revisions/suggestions and is not a second round of editing. Beyond the established scope of work, which is spelled out in detail in my contract, additional edits, reviews, and other editorial services are charged hourly. But this is not typically time-intensive, as we’ve already done the hard work!
The majority of clients’ fees are a combination of several levels of editing; most frequently developmental and copyediting services are warranted, followed by a secondary review.
(All my edits start with a 5 to 6-page sample edit of your MS which I offer for free. It enables me to give you a quote.)
Hourly Rates for Other Services
I also offer an a la carte “menu” of services. Please allow me to work up an individualized quote for you.
Manuscript Evaluation
A manuscript eval is often a good step to determine if you’re ready for an edit. Determining this factor will potentially save you money and time. $50/hour
Writer Coaching
Coaching explores your approach to writing and helps you through the barriers. Are you stuck? Having trouble with character development? Or even suffering from “Imposter Syndrome” (convinced you’ve lost your mojo)? Writer coaching might be the answer. $50-$75/hour
For more detailed explanation of the different levels of editing services, please see my services page.
To request a quote or get started on your project, contact me today.