avatarPenny Grubb

Summary

In March 2022, 98,000 writers received an average of £270 each from secondary rights income via the UK collecting society, ALCS, which supports writers by distributing fees collected for the use of their work.

Abstract

The UK collecting society, ALCS, distributed £26.8 million to 98,000 writers in March 2022, underscoring the importance of secondary rights income in supplementing writers' incomes, especially in economically challenging times. While the payout may not be substantial, it is a legitimate earnings from writers' intellectual property. Writers are encouraged to register with their local collecting societies to ensure they receive their share of income streams, which can include fees for the use of their work. The article also directs readers to a previous piece and its comments section for further information and a Q&A on the subject, emphasizing the global nature of these payouts and the potential for writers to benefit from this income.

Opinions

  • The distribution of secondary rights income is seen as a vital financial support for writers, with the average payout of £270 being beneficial in tough economic times.
  • It is emphasized that this income is rightfully earned by writers for the use of their work, and not registering with a collecting society could result in missing out on some income streams.
  • The article suggests that while secondary rights income may not make one rich, it is a significant and legitimate source of revenue that should not be overlooked.
  • The comments section of a related article is highlighted as a valuable resource for writers seeking more detailed information about collecting societies and their operations in different parts of the world.

On My Hobby Horse Again — Sorry, But Writers Have To Eat

People pay fees to use your work and that money is yours

Photo: Penny Grubb

Last month (March 2022) 98,000 writers received a share of £26.8 million — that’s an average of about £270 each. It’s not a fortune, but in these straitened times, it all helps.

The money came from secondary rights income via the UK collecting society. Other collecting societies in other countries will be paying out too — probably to different timetables.

You don’t necessarily have to register in order to get the money — it’s your money, earned by your works — however, registering makes you easier to find and can give you access to a share of some income streams that you would not otherwise be eligible for.

The details of how it works and how to find your own local collecting society are in the following article. It generated questions from readers wanting to know further detail about the situations in their parts of the world. As a result, the comments section turned into quite a Q&A collection and is worth checking if the article doesn’t cover exactly what you need to know.

Secondary rights income won’t make you rich — in most cases — but it can amount to a not insignificant sum. Some writers say it feels like money for nothing. I say, it is money legitimately earned from your writing.

Read more from Penny Grubb

Writing
Secondary Rights
Income
Collecting Societies
Tips For Writers
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