Online/digital media / Writing and research
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Please note that the suggested rates below are minima; that rates for copyright works are for limited licences; and that VAT is not included. See notes on negotiating rates and *find a freelance

The following are rough guide rates for work commissioned for first publication online. Rates and terms vary widely, however, often depending on whether the client originated in book or magazine or newspaper publishing, broadcasting, public relations, or as a new media start-up.

* Read me first!  Online/digital media / Writing and research advice
* Uploaded 2008-12-02 00:00:00: if you have a printout, check the current version at www.londonfreelance.org/feesguide/OnWriRat.html
The suggested rates(Know a better rate?tell us!)
For full definitions of the categories, click on their names
* See also: reported rates, to compare: Online/digital media / Writing and research
RATES:
Writing and research
1000 words - intense research or background required GBP 350.00
1000 words GBP 275.00
Researching links/day GBP 220.00
Resarching and ompiling a database, per day GBP 160.00
Writing/day GBP 160.00

Notes:

  • Fees for specialist copy written by an expert should include a premium of at least 10 per cent extra.
  • The freelance may wish to throw in a little very basic markup - some of us use HTMLin letters to friends - but the above rates do not include design, detailed markup or structuring a database - see Online and digital media - Editing+Production.
  • Photographic rates in this sector are covered in Photography - Online.
* Online/digital media advice
Find a freelance

Browse a selection of NUJ freelances with relevant skills through the Freelance Directory:

* Online journalism
* Columnist
* Commissioning editor
* Feature writer
* Reporter
* Researcher
More advice and links...
* Online/digital media - contents
* On negotiating for Online/digital media / Writing and research
* Broadcasting / Programme support to compare
* Public Relations / Writing to compare
* Suggested schedule of cancellation fees for shifts
[www.londonfreelance.org]
* Code of practice for commissioning journalists
* Copyright guidelines for editors
* Confirmation of Commission forms
* Fees Guide contents page
* What you should know about copyright
* Rates for the Job good, bad and ugly
* Join the NUJ to get individual advice & representation
for in
Text © Mike Holderness & Andrew Wiard; Moral rights asserted. Comments to ffg@londonfreelance.org please. You may find the glossary helpful.

The National Union of Journalists must not, can not and would not wish to dictate rates or terms of engagement to members or to editors. The information presented here is for guidance and as an aid to equitable negotiation only.

Suggestions apply to contracts governed by UK law only. In any event, nothing here should be construed as legal advice.