What percentage of Kindle On Demand goes to the author? This is a question that has intrigued many indie authors and publishers alike. With the rise of self-publishing platforms like Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), understanding the revenue breakdown is crucial for authors to make informed decisions about their publishing strategies.
In the world of Kindle On Demand, authors receive a portion of the royalties generated from the sale of their books. However, the exact percentage can vary depending on several factors, including the pricing strategy, the region where the book is sold, and the type of book (whether it’s a standard Kindle book or a Kindle Unlimited title).
Standard Kindle Books
For standard Kindle books, the royalty rate is generally 35% of the list price for books priced between $2.99 and $9.99 USD. This means that if an author sets their book’s price at $3.99, they will receive 35% of the sales price, which is $1.39 per book. However, for books priced below $2.99 or above $9.99, the royalty rate drops to 70% of the sales price, minus a $1.49 fee.
Kindle Unlimited and Kindle Owner’s Lending Library
When it comes to Kindle Unlimited (KU) and the Kindle Owner’s Lending Library (KOLL), authors receive a share of the KDP Select Global Fund. The exact amount an author earns from KU or KOLL depends on the number of pages read by users and the overall number of pages read across all KU books. In the past, Amazon has shared that authors received between 30% and 70% of the KDP Select Global Fund, but the exact percentage has fluctuated over time.
Other Factors to Consider
It’s important to note that the percentage of revenue an author receives is not the only factor that determines their earnings. The number of books sold, the book’s price, and the effectiveness of the book’s marketing strategy all play a significant role. Additionally, authors should be aware of any applicable taxes, fees, or other deductions that may be taken out of their royalties.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the percentage of Kindle On Demand revenue that goes to the author can vary widely depending on the book’s pricing, its inclusion in Kindle Unlimited or KOLL, and other factors. While Amazon does not publicly disclose the exact percentage of the KDP Select Global Fund that goes to authors, it’s clear that authors have the potential to earn a significant income through self-publishing. By understanding the revenue breakdown and focusing on effective marketing and pricing strategies, authors can maximize their earnings and achieve their publishing goals.
