Writer FAQ center.
Answers just for you.

You've got lots of questions. And we've got the answers, from A to Z.

WriterAccess Basics

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    Is it free to apply?
    Yes. No fees or obligations exist for writers.
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    Who can apply?
    We're now accepting applications from residence of the US, UK, New Zealand, Australia, Canada, South Africa and the Republic of Ireland. And you'll need a PayPal account for payments.
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    How does this work for writers?
    Writers who are accepted receive an initial star rating of 3, 4 or 5, or 6, which is determined by the strength of their profiles, writing samples, and initial application and test score. A writer's level can improve (or decline) as assignments are completed and rated "exceed" expectations by customers.

    Clients can place orders with writers using a pay-per-word order (using the rates preset by WriterAccess that vary by star level) or pay-per-order order form. Once an order is reserved, Writers are required to fulfill the order requirements to the specifications on the order form. Once an order is submitted, the client can either approve the content or request revisions. We urge writers to comply with a minimum of one revision request if the client returns the first submission with comments. When an order is approved, the rights to the content are transferred to the client and the writer is paid for their work.
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    How does this work for clients?
    Clients order content from the writers and provide instructions on each order. Orders can contain links, attachments and required SEO keywords. Clients can submit orders to a single writer or a team of writers if those writers have been added to their “Love List.” Clients only pay for content they approve—which should always meet the specifications and order requirements. Funds are held in escrow, and WriterAccess provides mediation for both writers and clients as part of the service.
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    Can you explain your pricing transparency?
    Talent earn 70% of the client pay for any and all orders. Full transparency of prices help us attract the best talent and best clients.
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    Can you sell the same article to several clients?
    No. All content must be completely new and original. Any plagiarism or reselling of the same article by writers will result in an immediate review and termination.
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    Do you check content for duplication and plagiarism?
    Yes. All articles are automatically scanned for copyright infringement using Copyscape. All detections are listed for client's review and verification on orders.
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    Can clients create a list of their favorite freelancers and keep using them?
    Yes. Clients add their favorites freelancers to Love Lists and Teams. When a client adds you to their Love List or a team, you be positioned to receive the order, first-come, first-served.

    Only one writer/freelancers will secure an order, and be responsible for delivery.
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    What type of content can clients order at WriterAccess?
    A wide range of orders are placed on WriterAccess, including advertisements, annual reports, articles, banner ads, blog posts, books, brochures, case studies, catalog entries, data sheets, direct mail, email copy, Facebook posts, grants, mobile content, newsletters, presentations, press releases, product descriptions, proposals, radio spots, speeches, traditional scripts, Twitter posts, video scripts, web pages, webinar presentations, webinar scripts, and white papers.
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    Do clients own the copyright on the content they buy?
    Yes. Clients own the copyright of any content purchased on WriterAccess. Clients do not own the copyright for any copy that they do not approve or do not pay for. Copyright is transferred upon approval of the order, which transfers payment to the talent. See our terms of use for more information.
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    Can I apply to be a writer if I already have an editor account?
    Yes, you can apply to be a writer as well as an editor, translator, and/or content strategist. However, you must be able to fulfill the requirements for those talent types for approval. Our technology will ensure that you are never asked to edit your own content.
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    I’m new. How do I get started?
    Here are some options to get started, once your're approved:
    • Review the How It Works for Freelancers section of the site, and read all these FAQ tips and answers.
    • Peruse the writer forum and join the conversation. We have an incredible community filled with talented writers and WA veterans who are quick to offer advice.
    • If you can't find an answer in our FAQs, reach out to the talent management team by opening a help desk ticket. We’ll point you in the right direction.

Money Matters

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    How much will I make and how are pay rates determined?
    Some writers achieve all their income goals for the year in the WriterAccess platform, completing a steady stream of projects with clients that keep coming back for more. Other writers look to the platform for part-time work without the ability to service clients for the long haul. Here’s a quick summary of the pay rates by star level— something we initially assign to you based on your experience, that can improve over time with performance and customers reviews:

    3 Star Orders pay 2.8 cents per word
    4 Star Orders pay 4.2 cents per word
    5 Star Orders pay 5.6 cents per word
    6 Star Orders pay 7.0 cents to $150 or more per word

    If you submit more words than the order prescribes, you will not be paid for the additional words. And you cannot submit less than the minimum words with each order.

    Client submit orders with specifications and suggested pay, and you decide if the pay is fair and if so, you agree to the terms and get paid when delivered/approved. Clients can and should increase the pay for projects that require additional research, industry expertise, or other editorial complexities.

    If a client uses our crowd order form, the pay is 10% less than our standard pay-per-word rates above. We offer this discount to help new writers put their skills to the test and build profitable relationships with clients in the platform.

    Best of all, we pay the best rates to freelancers, with you earning 70% on the payment amount for orders, conference calls, bonuses, and more. We do charge customers a monthly membership fee to access the platform, and a small transaction fee of 70 cents for each order.
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    When and how do I get paid with WriterAccess?
    We pay twice per month.

    All assignments are tallied up on the 4th and 19th day of the month, for those orders that were submitted by the end of the preceding half-month (allowing previous period's items to be approved by clients). Once tallied, WriterAccess transfers the required funds to PayPal (which may take a few days) and sends payments as soon as the balance is available to do so. By the end of this process, writers are typically paid out between the 7th and 9th for those pieces submitted before the end of the previous month, and between the 22nd and 24th for those pieces submitted by the 15th.

    We say typically, but because we rely on a slow ACH transfer into PayPal, where PayPal quotes 3-5 business days, that transfer may technically finish as late as the 11th and 26th, exclusive of holidays.

    Sometimes long client approval times or editorial workflow may cause an assignment to not be approved by the time payments are disbursed. Those orders will roll into the subsequent payout batch.
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    What if I didn't sign up at WriterAccess using my PayPal email address?
    No worries. You’ll specify the PayPal payment email separately from your WriterAccess Login email, or use the same email. The choice is yours.
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    How do taxes work, especially California Residents with the new AB5 law?
    WriterAccess is a platform-as-a-service and software provider, connecting customers directly with freelancers for marketing assignments in the platform. WriterAccess is not your employer, or responsible for any tax requirements. Instead, you and all the freelancers that choose to use the platform are independent contractors, subject to the laws, terms and conditions of the state in which you reside as well as the Federal Government. Because we process all payments to the Independent Contractors that use the WriterAccess Platform through PayPal, PayPal will be providing each freelancer the 1099-K information yearly, as per the laws, terms and conditions for each payee in their payment processing platform.

    On or before January 31st, new and existing California writers using the WriterAccess platform will need to take the following action to continue onward with our software service. EIN Business Registration: All California residence must register a business with the appropriate local, city and/or state government. Once you properly make your business filing, you can then go the IRS website to secure an Employment Identification Number, confirming your business is registered and in good standings with the IRS to properly prepared to pay taxes. Once you receive your EIN from the government, you’ll need to upload your EIN to WriterAccess, securely saved in our database for reference. New and existing California writers will also need to sign a new business agreement with WriterAccess confirming that you and your business are in good standing with appropriate filings.

All About Assignments

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    Can I pick up assignments immediately?
    Once a writer is approved with an initial star rating, they have full access to content orders, idea orders, and Casting Calls. This approval process may take a couple of weeks.
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    Are writers protected with terms and conditions?
    Yes. Writers own the copyright until the client approves the work, at which point copyright transfers to them. The client has deposited sufficient funds to create the order, so writers are guaranteed payment for successful completion of the order. Writers can request assistance for orders where they feel the client may be taking advantage of the revision process.
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    I'm new and not getting very far. What can I do?
    The available assignments pool may seem empty, but that's because the general pool is highly competitive. Orders get picked up as quickly as they're placed. Writers can increase their exposure among clients by becoming more interactive on the site by:
    1. Responding to Casting Calls. Clients use Casting Calls to find the right writers for their projects. Writers can apply to Casting Calls by providing a personalized response detailing their qualifications, interest, and availability. Writers can be added to the client's Love List directly from a Casting Call.
    2. Responding to private messages. Sometimes a client will find writers in a general search because values on a writer's profile match the experience and qualifications required for a project. Clients can send messages to a writer directly to discuss projects. Communication must remain on WriterAccess.
    3. Filling out your profile. Our search is based on your profile, so by filling out more assets, industries and samples, you are more likely to be found by clients. Once writers become more involved in Casting Calls, idea orders and messaging, they increase their exposure on the platform and are assigned more orders. The more successfully completed orders, the more visibility a writer has on WriterAccess.
    Once writers become more involved in Casting Calls, idea orders and messaging, they increase their exposure on the platform and are assigned more orders. The more successfully completed orders, the more visibility a writer has on WriterAccess.
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    How do I claim orders on WriterAccess?
    Once a writer logs into WriterAccess.com, they have full access to the platform. The Available Orders page posts a list of assignments that are available to be picked up.

    An order is claimed by clicking “View” and then “Checkout this Order.” There is a checkout rule which states that a writer has one hour to review the instructions on an order and determine whether or not they can complete it. If the order is unreserved past the one-hour grace period, a penalty may be applied. All order cancellations beyond the one-hour grace period are reviewed by WriterAccess.

    Writers are expected to only claim assignments they are qualified to complete and are encouraged to reach out to the clients for clarification if there is a problem with the order details/instructions.

    Writers are also expected to submit the article by the deadline prescribed on the order. Extensions can be requested, but cannot always be honored, and may result in penalties. Writers submit the content to the client by hitting the “Save and Submit” button at the bottom of the order form.

    The content goes through Copyscape verification before it reaches the client. The status of the order can be seen in the “Pending Approval” folder.
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    Can I compose texts offline?
    Yes, writers can copy and paste text from a word processor into the text box on an order.
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    How long does the client have to make a decision on my article?
    Clients can select approval periods of 5, 7, 10, or 14 days. Depending on their membership tier , they receive the following days for free:
    • Basic - 7 days
    • Pro Business - 10 days
    • Pro Agency - 10 days
    • Managed Service - 14 days
    Basic and Pro Business clients can choose to pay a premium for more approval time. This extra cost is split with the writer according to the usual 70/30 breakdown.

    The time for client approval is decided at the time the order is created, and the writer can see this value before they reserve the order.

    During the approval time, clients have the opportunity to request revisions, at which point they can return the article to the writer with comments on what to revise. When the writer again submits their content for approval the client's approval time is reset.
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    Can a client request revisions?
    Yes. As part of the WriterAccess satisfaction guarantee policy to clients, one round of revisions is required by the client if the order does not meet their expectations and they would like to remove the writer and get a refund for their order. Clients can request revisions for a number of reasons:
    • the writer did not fulfill an instruction/requirement on the order form
    • unsatisfactory quality of content (grammar, punctuation, formatting style/tone, etc.)
    • Copyscape matches
    • SEO/linking requirements
    Writers are given 48 hours to perform the revision request.Writers are expected to comply with revision requests if they haven't fulfilled the order requirements. WriterAccess encourages writers to notify the Help Desk if they have any questions or concerns about a client abusing revision requests.

    Writers are not required to do any revisions, but dropped orders cannot be paid, and will also be automatically reviewed by talent management.
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    How can I improve my ranking for higher paid assignments?
    Writers can improve their rating by completing orders successfully, receiving positive ratings from clients, responding to Casting Calls, and being added to Love Lists. There is an algorithm in place that determines the writer's algorithm score.

    Consistently good work is rewarded with an increase in star level, whereas any discrepancies regarding the quality of work will have a negative impact on the star level. This algorithm can automatically move you up to a 4-star writer, but moving up to 5-star and 6-star is done by periodic review by talent management.
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    How many orders can I check out at a time?
    The seasoned writers here at WriterAccess have dubbed our system "garages". Having a 3-car garage means that you can check out 3 orders at a time, etc.

    New writers start with a 1-car garage, and can only check out one order at a time. Once the first 10 orders are approved, writers are automatically upgrade to a 3-car garage, and can check out up to three orders at a time. After a writer has 100 approved articles, they can claim up to 4 articles at a time. After 500 articles, they can claim up to 5 articles at a time.

    There are a few notable exceptions:
    • A writer can claim an unlimited amount of “solo” orders. These are orders that clients assign only to one writer to work on “solo.”
    • If an order was sent to a group of writers and will expire in under 2 hours it can also be claimed no matter how many orders you already have checked out.
    • Orders that are paused for assistance or pending topic approval count for 1/3rd of a space, rounded down: 2 paused or topic pitch orders would take up no space at all, but a 3rd one would consume a full space.
    There are distinct garages for different order types: Crowd, Love List, and Solo. Once an order is off to the client for approval the space is cleared out and you can fill it with another order.
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    How do I communicate with a client?
    Clients can initiate communication with writers in several ways.
    1. Via Comment/Message directly in an order.
    2. Via WAMail: In the communication area (like an email/message)
    3. Via Conference Call intro: This feature allows clients to send a WriterAccess Mail message as well as a phone number and PIN. Once a Conference Call line is activated, it's up to the writer and client to correspond via message to determine a date/time to call (The writer is paid $0.35 per minute for their time on the conference call)
    If a client reaches out to you from any other avenue, or provides you with contact information to talk off of the platform, please open a Help Desk ticket.
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    What is a Casting Call?
    The Casting Call is a tool that clients can use to find writers for their content projects. It's a recruiting tool that allows them to specify their project details and writers can apply to them. As long as you are the minimum star level requested by the client, you will be able to apply. We do recommend that writers only apply if:
    • they are willing and able to take on the job
    • they have the required background
    • they agree with the posted pay and time frame
    Sometimes the WriterAccess internal staff will recommend writers who have the industry expertise required (as indicated on their profiles). In that case, email notifications are sent out to the writers and they can respond with details as to why they're the best fit.Clients are able to add writers to their Love List for future orders after working with them on a Casting Call.
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    What are crowd, love list, and solo orders?
    These terms refer to the way the order is sent to the writer rather than the level of the order. Crowd orders are released to any writer who wants to claim them and is the chosen star level or above, while love list and solo orders are sent to a single writer directly (solo) or a group of writers (love list) to see who picks it up first.

    All levels of content orders are potentially available via these distribution methods.

Rules and Star Rating

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    How does your Star Rating for writers work?
    The WriterAccess freelance writer community is categorized into a star level rating system. The purpose of this system is two-fold: 1) It allows more experienced writers to have access to complex assignments and earn more money, and 2) It's an easy way for clients to choose the level of quality they desire and pay accordingly. WriterAccess performs rigorous screening on applicants' education, writing expertise, knowledge of SEO and social media, and the extent of their online authority. Writers are assigned 3, 4, 5 or 6 stars depending on their profile details, industry experience and demonstrated writing proficiency.

    3 Star — The majority of applicants fall into this ranking. Profile and writing samples are basic, yet informative. The writer may have previous writing experience. Some 3-star writers don't specialize in any one field or industry, but may exhibit a proficient understanding of style and tone. Grammar, punctuation and spelling errors are a possibility, however balanced by the ability to research and incorporate basic SEO requirements into writing.
    4 Star — Writers of the 4-star level have engaging writing samples and valuable writing experience. Most of these writers have experience writing a variety of asset types and also have an understanding of more complex editorial requirements and instructions. Work delivered by a 4-star writer should meet the specifications of the order and go slightly beyond to exhibit a more advanced knowledge base or stylistic ability. Grammar, punctuation and spelling errors are rare, and typically, a 4-star writer will have industry expertise.
    5 Star — Writers who receive a 5-star rating on WriterAccess are typically published authorities with proven writing abilities. The writer is highly professional and has an expert grasp of the English language. Clients can expect 5-star writers to adhere to deadlines religiously, and produce content with a clear, concise writing style. Some 5-star writers are also experts in a given industry and may specialize in a certain type of writing (technical, PR, copywriting, etc). The 5-star writer also understands the complexities of editorial requirements and always delivers work that meets order specifications.
    6 Star — 6-star writing flows naturally, serving up copious details without careening readers off on tangents or leaving them scratching their heads. Readers feel content with the knowledge gained, not unlike the satisfaction after a good meal. They're also left with a feel-good vibe, and maybe even a chuckle, thanks to the snap, crackle and pop that explodes in the work.

    Writers' star levels can increase and decrease depending on the algorithmic scoring of completed orders, client and blind editor ratings on the platform.
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    How does your Star Rating for writers work?
    No. Writers (and clients) are not allowed to exchange personal contact information for privacy purposes. This includes full names, email addresses and phone numbers. All communication must take place in the WriterAccess platform. This includes comments on orders, WAMail messages, and Conference Calls. Everything is recorded and monitored so that WriterAccess can come to the defense of a writer or client in the event of a discrepancy.
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    Can a client rate my work?
    Yes, clients are required to rate the order when it is approved. If the order is auto-approved, the client is given 2 weeks after the auto-approval to rate the order. After the 2 weeks, if the client doesn't rate, WriterAccess deems the order as “met expectations.”

    This is good for writers, because it's counted toward the algorithm as a successfully completed order.

    Clients can rate orders as “exceeded expectations,” which helps the writer's rating even more so than having met expectations.

    Some clients choose to rate an order “did not meet expectations.” In order to leave this rating, the client must comment on the order with their reasoning. All work rated negatively is reviewed by WriterAccess internal staff. Internal staff determines whether or not the client's rating was justifiable. If not, we don't hold it against the writer. If so, a penalty will be applied to the algorithm, which can be canceled out by "met" and "exceeds expectations" ratings.
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    How Do I Become an Industry Elite Writer?
    Writers with industry experience and/or education in a particular industry can apply for Industry Elite status at WriterAccess once they have completed 10 orders in that industry.

    The Elite status is awarded to talented writers who demonstrate industry-specific writing experience and extensive background in a career field. They have established themselves as some of the best writers on the WriterAccess platform through their talents, dedication and contributions to creating quality content.

    Writers of this status receive a badge on their profile and clients can select writers for their projects based on Industry Elite status. Also, they will receive a bump up in the search results for that industry. Each writer can only have 5 Industries with Elite Badges.

    All writers who have industry experience are encouraged to indicate their qualifications on their profiles.

FAQs for Active Writers

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    How long do I have to wait for Topic Pitch Approvals before I can move on?
    After submitting your topic proposals (we recommend offering at least 2-3 options when pitching topics) the client should respond within 3-5 days. If the topic has not been approved/rejected within 1 week of the pitch (7 days), you may release the order penalty free. We recommend leaving a brief and professional note for the client, along the lines of: Releasing order due to lack of response.
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    What do I do if the client isn’t responding to my message?
    If the client isn’t responding to your message on an order and you need more information before moving forward, place the order on Client Assistance Hold.

    If the order is on hold for client assistance and the client hasn’t responded within 2 days, they will receive a series of reminder emails every day. If the client hasn’t responded within 2 weeks, you are able to release the order penalty free. We recommend leaving a brief and professional note for the client, along the lines of: Releasing order due to lack of response.
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    How do the free 1-hour extensions work?
    We understand that things come up, and you may need a few extra minutes on a deadline. This is why we provide 3 1-hour extensions. These short extensions are penalty free and will automatically refresh 30 days after use.
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    What do I do if the client misspelled the required keyword?
    If a required keyword is misspelled, you can:
    • Reach out to the client via message to clarify the correct spelling/intent
    • Include the exact word/phrase at the end of the order, so it is recognized by the system. Always alert the client via message so they understand why it’s there.
    • Send a message to the client asking them if they’d be able to move the required keyword to optional, so you aren’t forced to include it in it’s misspelled state.
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    How do I see how much I’ll be paid?
    On your dashboard, go to the Payment section, and check out the linked number next to "Next Pay". This is an approximation of your next pay, based on what orders have been approved in the pay cycle, and what was submitted to the client for approval before the pay cycle cut off. Client revision requests and longer approval times may change the actual deposit amount.
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    How often should I update my WA profile?
    We would recommend updating your profile at least quarterly to ensure that your experience and expertise are accurate. Clients and Admin rely heavily on your profile to determine if you would be a good fit for a project. Your profile should contain any keywords that pertain to your areas of expertise. Any time you learn a new skill, receive a new or updated certification, or further your education, we would recommend adding it to your profile.
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    Why can’t I respond to my client on my order or via message?
    The lines of communication with a client remain open for 2 weeks. After that time expires, you will no longer be able to reply. Clients have to initiate the conversation to reopen the message.
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    Can I cancel (release/drop) an order?
    Writers are given a 1 hour grace period that begins when an order is reserved, to release the order penalty free. This is an opportunity to carefully review the order details to ensure it aligns with your abilities.

    To remove an in-progress order from your account select “Cancel Reservation” at the bottom of the order page. Leave a brief and professional note in the text box as to why you are unable to complete it. Talent Management reviews all orders dropped after the 1 hour grace period.

    If a client requests that you release an order, you will not be penalized for the drop. An appropriate note in this case would be, “Released order at client’s request.”
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    A client rated my order Did Not Meet Expectations, what do I do? And what does this mean?
    If a client rates your order as Did Not Meet Expectations (DNM), it means that they have approved the order, but the content or the experience didn’t necessarily align with what they had anticipated. All DNM ratings are reviewed by our Talent Management team at the time of your rising/falling account review. It may be overturned if we feel it was placed in error or undeserved.

    DNM ratings may not always be entirely fair or even make sense at times. However, it is an indication of how the client feels and because of that it's not always our place to make changes. While we may not overturn it, we do review each one when assessing your account to understand the situation.

    DNM ratings can be frustrating. Please keep in mind that you aren’t going to be a great fit for every client, and that’s okay. Most writers receive at least one in their time on the platform.
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    Can I cancel (release/drop) an order?
    Writers are given a 1 hour grace period that begins when an order is reserved, to release the order penalty free. This is an opportunity to carefully review the order details to ensure it aligns with your abilities.

    To remove an in-progress order from your account select “Cancel Reservation” at the bottom of the order page. Leave a brief and professional note in the text box as to why you are unable to complete it. Talent Management reviews all orders dropped after the 1 hour grace period.

    If a client requests that you release an order, you will not be penalized for the drop. An appropriate note in this case would be, “Released order at client’s request.”
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    An order was approved, but the client wants revisions. What do I do?
    When an order is approved or auto-approved it is considered complete. Clients are no longer able to request revisions through that order. If a client requests changes be made after approval you can:
    • Work with the client via messaging to iron out any small details
    • For larger changes, suggest that the client place an order to cover the scope of the revisions. Typically writers will accept a lower rate (2 star) for completing revisions.
    • Politely decline
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    What should I put into my casting call pitch?
    A casting call pitch is an opportunity to state your case regarding why you’re the right person for the assignment. Be sure to review all the information provided so that you’ll be better prepared to explain why you are the best fit. Things to mention are previous jobs, writing experience, and education in a relevant field that may separate you from the pack.

    Keep in mind that most writers have very low casting call success rates. That’s okay! You never know when a casting call will turn into a long term client, it’s worth it to keep applying!
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    It says I was approved for a casting call, now what?
    If your casting call application shows as approved, it means you were added to the client’s love list from that application. You may or may not be sent the order, but keep your eyes out for work.
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    A client wants me to post something outside of WA. Is that okay?
    No. WriterAccess is strictly a content creation platform bound by an NDA between writers and clients, it is against policy for writers to publish and/or distribute approved content to external channels. Writers must submit content solely through the platform.
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    If an order is rated DNM, do I still get paid?
    Yes. A client can only rate an order if it’s approved. All approved orders are paid following the payment schedule.
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    Can I block a client?
    You cannot block a client, but you can use the settings in the client’s profile to change what you see from that client.

    To get to that page:
    • Click on the linked name of the client in either a message or order
    • Check off the Invisible, Suppress Love List Emails or Suppress Casting Call Notification boxes to reduce the information you receive about that client.
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    Why would a client give me a DNM rather than ask for more revisions?
    This can vary depending on the client. In our experience, some clients find it easier to edit the content themselves, since they have a clear picture of what it should ultimately look like. Some clients don’t have the time to go through the revision process if they are up against a tight deadline. Some clients may feel that you aren’t the right fit for the piece, and it would be best to start anew. Whatever the client’s reasoning, you will be paid for the order and the DNM will be reviewed by talent management.
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    An order is under review, how long will it take?
    A client’s order may be held for review for a number of reasons. Most likely, it’s because it’s the client’s first order. All first orders are reviewed by a member of our team to ensure guidelines are being followed and so we can help correct any issues right from the start. It’s our hope that this provides the client a better chance for a successful first experience.

    Orders are typically reviewed within 1 business day.

    If an order is under review for an extended period of time, it’s likely that our team is working with the client to get it in tip top shape.
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    The client said they left feedback in a revision request, where is it?
    A client can leave 2 kinds of feedback on an order.
    • General Feedback: This is left in the notes section of the order, describing what they would like to see changed.
    • Annotated Feedback: This is pointed, specific feedback that a client can leave on the content itself. To view the annotations:
      • Go into your order
      • Go to the version history at the bottom
      • Click on the numbered link under the annotation column for the version submitted to the client.
    Be sure to check both areas when completing revisions.
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    When I try to submit a topic pitch, it gives me an error. What gives?
    The first thing to do if you are having trouble submitting your pitch is to confirm that you have included the title. There are two separate text boxes and it’s easy to miss.

    If you have confirmed that the pitch was input correctly, the next likely scenario is that the order expired before you could submit it. Writers have 24 hours to submit topic pitches, beginning when the order is reserved. Extensions are not permitted.
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    My connection seems really slow/delayed. Can you help? (Large Number of Keywords)
    A high number of keywords can slow the response time down considerably if your account is set to live counting (default). To resolve the issue, head to the ‘Setup’ tab, and under ‘Misc. Settings’, check the box that reads “Disable live keyword and density counting…”
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    Should I charge more for including photos?
    Since WA is primarily a content writing platform, your rates are based on word count. That means that any work done to source and include images would be done as part of the per word cost unless otherwise specified. For this reason, many writers ask for additional compensation before agreeing to the assignment. This most easily accomplished by adding a flat bonus onto the order.
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    How do I add photos to an article?
    To add photos or images to an order, you’ll follow these steps:
    • Upload the image to your file library
    • Copy the created URL
    • Go to your order and find a multiple line text box
    • Click on the image icon in the 2nd row of the formatting options
    • In the pop-up, enter in the URL
    • Press OK
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    Someone is asking for academic work. What should I do?
    WriterAccess does not permit the solicitation of writers to produce content for academic purposes or for credit in an academic institution. If you notice an order that violates this point, please open a help desk ticket and let us know immediately.
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    My internet went out, what do I do?
    Don’t panic! If you lose internet there are a few tricks that we can suggest
    • Create a hotspot
    • Many businesses will offer free wi-fi, some old standbys include coffee shops, hotels, and libraries.
    • If all else fails, let the client know as soon as you can.
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    Can the client use my name on an article? (full attribution vs. partial)
    Full attribution can only be requested on a 6 star order, and includes a headshot, full name, and a 2-3 sentence custom bio. The client can formally request this on the order form, which you will be able to see before reserving the assignment. Many clients miss this section, and will request attribution after the fact.
    • If you agree to being attributed and the order is placed at the 6 star level, you are free to provide a headshot, full name, and custom bio (no contact information).
    • If the order is not at the 6 star level, and the client would like full attribution, they can update the payment on the order to 6 Stars.
    Partial attribution includes your first name and last initial and must include a link to your WA public profile. This can be requested at any level.
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    Can clients change content after it’s approved?
    Yes. Once an order is approved, the client owns the copyright. They are able to make any changes they would like. You will not see these changes reflected in your account.
  • +
    Can clients post content before approving it?
    No. If the content appears to have been prematurely used, please open a Help Desk ticket and we can rebuff the client.
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    What should I do if a client changes an order’s requirements after I’ve begun working?
    Writers are responsible for adhering to the instructions listed on the order form. If a client changes the requirements after reserving the order, please alert the help desk. If you have no problem accommodating the client’s updated requests, you can absolutely do so, but it is not required.
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    When will my account be reviewed for a star level increase?
    The talent management team at WA uses a rising/falling star system paired with an internal algorithm to ensure that each writer is regularly reviewed and working at the appropriate level. Due to the high volume of writers on our platform, profile critiques and account reviews are not performed on demand.
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    Can a client send me their product/book/etc?
    At times clients may want to ship you a copy of a book, a particular product, etc. Since sharing personal contact information is prohibited, the client must ship the package to our office. When we receive the package we will then forward the item on to you.
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    How do I know if an order will go through editing?
    If a client has requested proofreading on an order, it will indicate that on the order form.
  • +
    Is an editor allowed to change my content?
    Editors are expected to make changes to improve grammar, punctuation, and spelling when necessary. If they feel client instructions are not followed, they may reach out to you with questions.
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    What do I do if I feel an editor is making unnecessary changes to my order?
    If an editor is making unnecessary changes, significantly delaying an order, or being unprofessional, please open a help desk ticket to alert talent management.
  • +
    How do I close my account?
    We would hate to see you go, but we understand that WriterAccess may not be the best fit for everyone. To close your account, please open a help desk ticket.
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    I got an email that I had an order coming my way, but it never showed up.
    This can happen for a few reasons.
    • If this is the client’s first order, it will be put on hold until a member of our team reviews it. If this is the case, it would appear under Status: Under Review
    • Clients will frequently update orders after they have launched, if they change their mind regarding their targeted writers. A lot of time this will happen where a client first launches the order as a solo, but adds more writers from their love list shortly after.
    • The order may be set to launch at a later date. If this is the case, it will appear under the status “Available Later”.
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    What does it mean if the order appears crossed out?
    If an order is crossed out (strikethrough) this means that another writer has already claimed the work. When the platform refreshes it will be removed.
  • +
    Can I provide a quote for a client that is different than my star level rate?
    For most orders, your star level and/or the star level of the project will dictate the rate. However, some projects may be outside of the scope of a normal order due to the level of expertise needed, research time, etc. For these orders it may make sense to quote a client a higher or lower rate.

    You are free to do so, but keep in mind that WA and writers share a 70/30 split. For example, if you wish to quote a client a rate of $0.15 per word (writer payout), you would want to include the 30% and quote the client $0.21. The formula is: Your Pay/0.7 = Client Cost
  • +
    Can a ‘met expectations’ negatively impact my rating if it’s an order completed below my star level?
    No. Met Expectations ratings are never considered a negative, regardless of your star level. “Met” is the most common rating.
  • +
    I am going to be traveling out of the country, do I need to do anything?
    If you are going to be traveling out of the country and logging in to the platform, please open a help desk ticket and let us know.
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    Does WriterAccess allow writers to use programs or plugins, (sometimes referred to as "bots") like check for change, auto refresh, etc. If not, how does WriterAccess ensure writers are not using them?
    No. These programs and plugins can place an undue load on our server and create errors for other platform users. While WriterAccess does understand the competitive nature of securing non-Solo orders, programs and plugins that check automatically for changes are not allowed in order to ensure the health of the site as a whole.

    The WriterAccess Tech team performs periodic checks to ensure our talent is not using these programs, and will reach out to offenders directly with a request to stop use via their listed email. If use continues, the talent is given a final warning before they are removed from the platform.

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