Do Ghostwriters Get Royalties? Everything You Need to Know

Do Ghostwriters Get Royalties? Everything You Need to Know

In the world of publishing, ghostwriters are the silent partners behind many bestselling books, celebrity memoirs, business guides, and even popular blog posts. These skilled writers craft compelling narratives while allowing someone else—often the credited author—to take the public spotlight. But one of the most common questions about ghostwriting is: Do ghostwriters get royalties?

The short answer is it depends. Ghostwriting agreements are not one-size-fits-all, and whether or not a ghostwriter receives royalties is determined by the contract negotiated between the ghostwriter and the credited author or publisher. In this article, we’ll explore the nuances of ghostwriter compensation, the factors that influence royalty arrangements, and the pros and cons of taking royalties as a ghostwriter.

What is a Ghostwriter?

Before diving into compensation, it’s important to understand the role of a ghostwriter. A ghostwriter is a professional writer hired to write material that is officially credited to someone else. This could include:

  • Books (fiction and non-fiction)
  • Autobiographies and memoirs
  • Articles and blogs
  • Scripts and speeches
  • Business documents or white papers

Ghostwriters may conduct interviews, do research, and draft or revise the entire manuscript—all while remaining behind the scenes. The ghostwriter’s identity is usually undisclosed, although in some cases they may receive a “with” or “as told to” credit.

How Are Ghostwriters Typically Paid?

Ghostwriters are usually paid in one of three main ways:

1. Flat Fee

Most ghostwriters are paid a flat fee for the project. This fee can range anywhere from a few thousand dollars for a blog series or short e-book to six figures for high-profile memoirs or traditionally published books. The fee is often paid in installments based on project milestones (e.g., signing the contract, completing the outline, delivering a draft, and final approval).

Pros:

  • Guaranteed income
  • Paid regardless of the book’s success
  • Easier to budget for clients

Cons:

  • No share in the book’s long-term earnings
  • Missed opportunities if the book becomes a bestseller

2. Royalties

In some cases, ghostwriters receive a percentage of the royalties the book generates. This is more common in long-term partnerships or when the ghostwriter is willing to take a risk in exchange for a potential bigger payout down the road.

Pros:

  • Ongoing passive income
  • Potential to earn more than a flat fee if the book sells well

Cons:

  • No guarantee of income
  • Payment is delayed until after publication and sales

3. Hybrid: Flat Fee + Royalties

Some ghostwriting agreements combine a flat fee with a smaller royalty share. For example, a ghostwriter might accept a lower upfront fee in exchange for 5-15% of the book’s royalties. This structure is appealing to both parties—giving the ghostwriter some security while aligning their success with the book’s performance.

So, Do Ghostwriters Get Royalties?

Yes, but only if it’s included in the contract. In most standard ghostwriting deals, especially for commercial projects, ghostwriters do not receive royalties. Instead, they are paid a flat fee and walk away once the project is complete. Royalties are more likely when:

  • The ghostwriter is experienced and has leverage
  • The client cannot afford a high upfront payment
  • The project has significant earning potential
  • There is a close or ongoing collaboration between the ghostwriter and client

In traditional publishing, royalties are paid as a percentage of book sales (e.g., 10–15% of the cover price or net receipts). If a ghostwriter is entitled to royalties, they’ll receive a portion of the author’s share—typically negotiated in the contract.

Typical Royalty Shares for Ghostwriters

There’s no standard rate for ghostwriting royalties, but typical arrangements might look like:

  • 5–10% of net royalties (if the author is receiving standard royalties from a publisher)
  • 15–50% of royalties (for self-published books, where both parties are more like partners)
  • 20–30% is not uncommon when the ghostwriter is heavily involved in promotion, editing, and project management in addition to writing

Again, all of this is negotiable. Ghostwriters who bring special expertise, marketing muscle, or industry contacts may command higher percentages.

Factors That Influence Ghostwriting Royalties

Several key factors influence whether a ghostwriter will ask for or receive royalties:

1. Experience and Reputation

A seasoned ghostwriter with bestsellers under their belt can negotiate better deals—including royalty arrangements.

2. Client Profile

Celebrities and entrepreneurs who expect a big return on investment might offer royalties as a way to incentivize the ghostwriter.

3. Publishing Model

Self-published authors often have more flexibility to offer royalties, while traditional publishers typically deal with the author only.

4. Budget

If the client has limited funds, they may offer royalties in exchange for a lower upfront payment.

Scope of Work

A ghostwriter who acts as a developmental editor, writing coach, or project manager may expect a share in the book’s success.

Pros and Cons of Royalties for Ghostwriters

✅ Pros

  • Potential Long-Term Income: Royalties can be lucrative if the book is successful.
  • Incentive Alignment: The ghostwriter is more invested in the book’s quality and marketing.
  • Prestige & Portfolio: Being part of a successful project (even quietly) can boost credibility.

❌ Cons

  • Uncertain Income: There’s no guarantee the book will sell.
  • Delayed Payment: Royalties are usually paid semi-annually or quarterly after sales reports.
  • Complex Accounting: Tracking and auditing royalty payments can be difficult without transparency.

Key Contract Clauses to Consider

If royalties are part of the agreement, the ghostwriter’s contract should clearly state:

  • Royalty percentage and structure (e.g., net or gross)
  • Payment schedule
  • Audit rights (ability to verify sales and payments)
  • Credit terms (e.g., whether the ghostwriter will be named or remain anonymous)
  • Termination and rights reversion clauses

It’s highly advisable for both parties to consult an attorney or literary agent to draft or review the contract before signing.

When Should a Ghostwriter Ask for Royalties?

Ghostwriters should consider asking for royalties when:

  • They believe strongly in the project’s success
  • The author lacks a budget for a high upfront fee
  • There is a partnership dynamic between writer and client
  • They are contributing more than just writing—such as marketing or publishing expertise

However, newer ghostwriters may prefer the stability of a flat fee to ensure they are compensated fairly for their work, regardless of what happens post-publication.

Conclusion

So, do ghostwriters get royalties? Sometimes—but only if they negotiate for them. Most ghostwriting deals are based on a flat fee, but royalty arrangements are possible and can be mutually beneficial. The key is to have a clear, written agreement that outlines expectations, compensation, and ownership rights.

For ghostwriters, choosing between upfront payment and royalties comes down to risk tolerance, confidence in the project, and the nature of the client relationship. For authors, offering royalties can be a way to work with top-tier talent even on a limited budget.

Whether you’re an author hiring a ghostwriter or a writer considering a ghostwriting job, understanding the financial dynamics of the deal is crucial. When in doubt, consult with a legal or publishing professional to ensure your agreement is fair, transparent, and protects both parties.