Kill Fee???

[Sea Star]

Could someone enlighten me as to what the term 'kill fee' refers to? I have been doing research concerning submitting articles to Christian magazines & a number of them mention a kill fee varying from 50% to 100%. Also, if they don't specifically state that they are purchasing one time or reprint rights, should I assume they are wanting total or complete rights? The type of article I have would have fit nicely into the Guidepost format, but they specifically state "all rights". Thanks!

[DrRita]

Miralee,
A kill fee is when they accept an article for publication and then decide not to publish it afterall. Instead of you getting nothing (say the $200 you contracted for) because they didn't publish it, they pay you part or all of the contract amount. This is usually for those who work on assignment. :(

[KO'Leary]

Hi,

Since the area of kill fees was addressed already, I won't belabor that further. Most Christian publications have a discussion of rights in their writer's guidelines or have them listed in market guides like Christian Writer's Market. If not, pubications often have e-mail addresses for questions. I spell out the rights I am offering in my cover letters so that there is no confusion regarding what is being purchased.

I hope this helps some. Best wishes with your writing. God bless.

Karen :)

[Sea Star]

Thank you both! You have completely answered my questions & I truly appreciate it. Clearly stating the rights you are offering in the cover letter is a great way to do it, thank you! Miralee

[KO'Leary]

Hi Miralee,
Glad I could help. That's what fellow writers are for. Best wishes.
Karen :)