How To Make Money Online With Substack [UPDATED]

Introduction.

Making money online has never been easier, and one platform that’s been getting a lot of buzz lately is Substack.

If you enjoy writing or have knowledge to share, Substack can be a great way to turn your skills into income.

Whether you’re just starting or looking to grow an existing newsletter, this guide breaks down how Substack works, why it’s worth exploring, and the steps to set yourself up for success.

Why Substack?

Substack is a platform designed for writers and content creators to publish newsletters and make money directly from their subscribers.

Unlike traditional blogging platforms, Substack allows you to charge a subscription fee, giving you a steady income stream if you build a loyal audience.

Here’s why it stands out:

• No Upfront Costs: You can start for free. Substack only takes a cut of the revenue you earn (10% of subscription fees, plus payment processing fees).
• Control Over Content: You own your newsletter and subscriber list, giving you the flexibility to grow it the way you want.
• Direct Connection: Substack lets you connect directly with readers who value your content enough to pay for it.

How Does Substack Work?

Substack operates as a simple-to-use publishing tool. You can set up your newsletter, write posts, and share them with your audience. Here’s a breakdown of how it works:

1. Sign Up: Create an account on Substack. The setup process is quick and user-friendly.
2. Write and Publish: Use the built-in editor to create posts. You can add images, links, and other media to make your content more engaging.
3. Set Pricing: Decide if you want to offer free content, paid content, or a mix of both. Common subscription fees range from $5 to $15 per month.
4. Promote: Share your newsletter on social media, with your friends, and in online communities to grow your audience.
5. Earn: Subscribers pay monthly or yearly fees, and Substack deposits your earnings directly into your account.

How Do I Start Earning on Substack?

1. Pick Your Niche

The most successful newsletters focus on specific topics. Instead of writing about everything, choose something you’re passionate about or knowledgeable in. Popular niches include:

• Personal Finance
• Technology
• Health and wellness
• Parenting
• Sports
• Fiction or storytelling

2. Create Quality Content

Content is king. The more value you offer, the more likely readers will subscribe. Some ideas to get started:

• Share unique insights or perspectives.
• Offer actionable advice.
• Write in an engaging and relatable way.

3. Offer Free and Paid Content

Starting with free content helps you attract an audience. Once people see the value in your work, they’re more likely to pay for premium posts. For example:

• Free posts can cover general tips or updates.
• Paid posts can dive deeper into strategies, analysis, or exclusive ideas.

4. Promote Your Newsletter

Growing your audience is key to earning more. Here are some ways to spread the word:

• Use social media platforms like Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
• Share posts in relevant online communities or forums.
• Ask your friends and followers to subscribe or share your newsletter.

5. Engage With Your Audience

Reply to comments, ask for feedback, and interact with readers to build a loyal community. This connection encourages people to stick around and even recommend your newsletter to others.

How Much Can You Earn on Substack?

Earnings on Substack vary widely depending on your audience size and subscription fees. For example:

• With 500 subscribers paying $10/month, you’d make $5,000/month (before Substack’s cut and fees).
• Even with 100 subscribers at the same rate, you’d still earn $1,000/month.

Creators like Heather Cox Richardson and Judd Legum reportedly make six figures annually using Substack. While these are extreme cases, they show the platform’s potential.

FAQs

Q: Do I need to be a professional writer to succeed on Substack?

A: Not at all. As long as you have valuable insights or a unique perspective, you can find an audience. Writing well is important, but passion and authenticity matter more.

Q: How do I price my subscription?

A: Most creators charge between $5 and $15 per month. Test different price points and adjust based on your audience’s feedback and engagement.

Q: Can I switch from free to paid later?

A: Absolutely. Many creators start with free content and add paid tiers once they have a solid following.

Q: How often should I post?

A: Consistency is key. Start with one or two posts per week and increase frequency if you can maintain quality.

Q: Are there other ways to make money on Substack?

A: Yes! Some writers offer sponsorships, sell courses, or use their newsletter to promote other services.

Final Thoughts

Substack is a fantastic tool for anyone looking to earn money online while sharing their expertise or creativity.

It’s easy to use, scalable, and offers a direct way to connect with an audience. With some effort and a clear focus, you can turn your writing into a source of income.

What do you think is the biggest challenge to starting your own paid newsletter? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!