NUJ Freelance Fees Guide: Online/digital media - Writing+research

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! Writing+research advice

Uploaded: 2008-05-05; if you have a printout, check the current version at www.londonfreelance.org/feesguide/OnWriRat.html

Reported rates, to compare for Writing+research

The suggested rates (know a better rate? tell us!)

RATES: all Writing+research

1000 words - intense research or background required		350
1000 words		275
Researching links/day		220
Writing/day		160
Resarching and ompiling a database, per day		160

NUJ members discuss rates etc for writing in general

See: Broadcasting / Programme support to compare

See: Public Relations / Writing to compare

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.

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Code of practice for commissioning journalists

Generally useful links:

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.