What should the quote include?
Specify the audience, approximate length, research, images and delivery date. Ask whether the writer will upload the article or simply send a document.
Which charges need a closer look?
Check interview time, revisions, rush delivery, image licenses and ongoing updates. Agree on ownership and whether the writer's name will appear.
Have the provider mark each item as included, optional or charged separately. An item left blank is a question to resolve, not something to count as free.
Before you decide
Give the writer one clear brief and one person responsible for feedback. Compare samples relevant to your subject rather than assuming a lower per-word rate buys the same level of research.
Compare the total you would pay
Put the offers side by side using the same work, dates and quantities. Add required extras and applicable taxes to each starting price. Keep optional upgrades separate so you can choose them deliberately.
- For an hourly price: ask about minimum time, the expected hours and approval before the bill grows.
- For a package: ask about its limits, expiry and the price of work outside it.
- For a deposit: confirm whether it counts toward the total, when the balance is due and what happens if you cancel.
Keep the agreed price and work list together. If the plan changes, ask for the revised total before agreeing to the extra work.
The rewrite date records an editorial update, not a verification of local prices. How we research fees.