The Overhead of an Indie Author

Lately I've been trying to figure out the cost of everything I'll need for the first three novels that I publish, including this one. I'm also figuring what I would need for the business portion as well. At first I had thought that I would have very little overhead. However, the more I learn about publishing the more I realize that I have to pay for a lot more than I initially realized. Self-publishing is more than simply putting your book on createspace and then sitting back to watch the $$$ roll in.

First, since I will be selling my novels from my website, I had to get a business license and file for a DBA and Seller's Permit. Thankfully, since I'm using my last name and industry as my DBA I didn't have to pay and the seller's permit is also free. But the business license was $52.

Next comes the editor. For this novel I have a friend who is a retired editor working with me. I am realistic, however, and I know she may not be able to work on future novels. The average price for good professional editor is around $750 for a novel my size.

The cover art is also expensive. The artist I am working with is charging me $400 for both the e-book and print covers. That is $200 more than I wanted to spend but based on the quality of her work I'm willing to hand over the extra cash.

Now, to be able to sell on my website I should have some of the books on hand. Because of this I decided to have 10 books in my inventory at all times. To get the initial 10 books I will pay approximately $55 (not including tax). Thankfully I don't need books on hand for the distributor, they will get it directly from the printer.

Speaking of distributors, the one I am going to use through createspace is $25.

The website will also cost a bit. I am designing it myself which will help. In the future I plan to hire someone to make it look more professional. Even still, the domain registration and host fee will be around $80/year.

Now, I'm not including the prices for marketing and promotions since I'm still figuring out a plan for that.

So, in total, for my first three novels and business fees, I am looking at spending approximately $3200. That includes the business tax/license and website fees for next year as well. Separately, and without the cost of doing business, each novel will cost me about $1230 if I hire a good editor.  That's without any marketing, advertising, or promotions.

Man! And to think I have a goal of 1-3 novels a year. I know I can afford to have everything done if I save each month in anticipation of the next novel. It's not easy and I'm going to have to give up one or two things but I feel it will be worth it.

Now I know why many say it's easier to traditionally publish (even with the piles of rejection letters that EVERY author endures when they go that route). Still, I like the road less traveled. I feel a sense of accomplishment when things go right.