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Are you thinking about entering writing competitions with cash prizes but feeling overwhelmed about where to start? I get it—sorting through all the contests out there can seem like a lot. If you keep reading, you'll discover simple steps to find the best contests for your style and how to increase your chances of winning. Plus, you'll get tips on submitting your work confidently and landing those cash rewards.
In this guide, you'll see how to spot top writing contests—whether you're into stories, poetry, or even writing for young people—and choose the right one for you. We'll also share practical advice to help your entries stand out and boost your chances of success. Whether you're dreaming of cash prizes or just want to challenge yourself, there's something here for every writer.
Key Takeaways
Key Takeaways
- Find contests with big cash prizes that match your writing style, like short stories, poetry, or novels. Keep an eye on deadlines and entry fees, and choose reputable competitions to avoid scams.
- Read submission rules carefully, polish your work, and submit only when it fits the contest’s theme and format. This increases your chances of winning.
- Stay organized by tracking deadlines and entry details using spreadsheets or apps. Reminders help ensure you don’t miss contests.
- Winning contests build your portfolio, boost your credibility, and can open doors for publication or future opportunities.
- Focus on trusted sources and avoid contests that ask for fees or vague promises. Proper research and preparation can lead to cash rewards and growth as a writer.
If you're looking to make some extra cash with your writing skills, participating in writing competitions with cash prizes is a smart move. These contests not only provide a financial boost but also help you gain exposure, build your portfolio, and push your creative limits. Here's the lowdown on how to find the best writing contests that offer real money and what to watch out for.
First, **know which contests offer significant cash rewards**. Some top competitions include the (https://automateed.com/winter-writing-prompts/) offering up to 1,500 AUD (around $1,000 USD), and the (https://automateed.com/winter-journal-prompts/) with awards from £150 to £1,350. These contests typically have deadlines throughout the year—May and September are popular months—so marking your calendar is key.
When it comes to **types of writing contests**, the options are diverse:
– **Short story and flash fiction contests** often feature cash prizes from $500 to $3,000. For instance, the Masters Review Short Story Award gives away $3,000 with just a $20 entry fee.
– **Novel writing contests** such as the Cheshire Novel Prize offer £1,500 (~$2,000 USD), perfect for authors working on their big projects.
– **Poetry and creative nonfiction prizes** also include awards like the Wergle Flomp Humor Poetry Contest, which has a $2,000 reward, and the Restless Books Prize for New Immigrant Writing, with $10,000 and publication.
Some contests even cater to specialized niches or demographics:
– For young writers, high school contests like the Nancy Thorp Poetry Contest give $350 plus scholarships.
– The WebNovel Spirity Awards (https://automateed.com/spirity-awards-2025) for categories including "Book of the Year."
Entry fees vary widely—some contests are free, while others might cost around $14 to $29. Still, the potential payoff makes them worth considering if you're ready to submit. Look specifically for contests with clear rules, deadlines, and transparency about prizes to avoid scams.
Beyond just finding contests, think about **which competitions best match your writing style and goals**. For example, if you're into flash fiction, you'll want to target contests that emphasize short works. If you're aiming to publish your novel, focus on contests like the (https://automateed.com/), which not only offers cash but also valuable exposure.
To enhance your chances, always read the submission guidelines carefully. Make sure your work fits the theme, format, and word count specified by the contest. Keep your submission polished—use tools like Grammarly or Autocrit to correct grammar and style before sending it out.
Lastly, staying organized helps a lot. Keep a list of upcoming deadlines, entry fees, and prize amounts. Use a calendar or a spreadsheet to track submissions and avoid missing key deadlines. Remember, some contests may also offer publication opportunities, which can serve as an excellent platform for building your reputation.
Participation in these competitions can be a game changer for your writing career. Scour trusted sources and official contest websites for current opportunities, such as the (https://automateed.com/), which awards $1,500, or the (https://automateed.com/), offering quarterly prizes up to $1,000 and an annual $5,000 grand prize.
If you want to learn more about increasing your odds of success or crafting winning entries, check out guides like (https://automateed.com/how-to-be-a-beta-reader/). Remember, with persistence and the right approach, your writing might just land you some impressive cash rewards.
How to Spot Legitimate Writing Contests and Avoid Scams
Not every contest promising cash is worth your time, so it's crucial to tell legit opportunities from scams.
Start by researching the contest via trusted sources like official websites and reputable writing communities.
Check for clear rules, transparent prize distributions, and contact info—red flags include vague descriptions or upfront fees with no guaranteed reward.
Don't pay to enter most contests; legitimate ones usually have free submission options or modest fees justified by high-quality prizes.
Read reviews or experiences from past winners to gauge legitimacy, and trust contests affiliated with well-known organizations or literary presses.
Always avoid contests that ask for exclusive rights without any promise of payment or publication—your work deserves fair treatment.
Sticking to reputable platforms like (https://writersdigest.com/contests) or industry-sponsored competitions reduces your scam risk and increases your chances of winning.
How to Prepare Your Submissions to Maximize Your Chance of Winning
Getting your work ready for contest submission is about quality and following the rules.
Carefully read the guidelines—word count, theme, formatting—to make sure your entry fits perfectly.
Polish your writing with editing tools like (https://automateed.com/autocrit-review-2/) or Grammarly, then ask a friend or fellow writer for feedback.
Pay attention to the introduction and ending—these are often make-or-break elements in short contests.
Keep multiple versions of your story or poem so you can refine your best drafts before submitting.
Write a brief, engaging bio if required, highlighting your relevant experience without overdoing it.
Double-check all submission details, including your contact info and file format, to avoid disqualification.
How to Track Your Entries and Deadlines Effectively
Staying organized is key to submitting to multiple contests without missing out.
Create a dedicated spreadsheet or use a digital planner to log contest names, deadlines, entry fees, and prize info.
Set reminders a week and a day before the deadline—timing is everything!
Record submission confirmation emails or receipts for proof in case of disputes.
Use apps or tools like Trello or Notion to visualize your submission pipeline and keep everything manageable.
Review your list weekly to remove contests you've missed and add new opportunities as they pop up.
This way, you'll avoid last-minute panic and increase your chances of getting your work in on time.
How to Build a Portfolio from Your Contest Wins
Winning contests can be great stepping stones to building a professional writing portfolio.
Save copies of your winning entries, publications, or honorable mentions to showcase your range and talent.
Consider creating a dedicated website or blog where you publish your best work and list your contest achievements.
Solicit permissions from organizers if your work gets published or featured online to add to your credentials.
Link your success stories on social media to attract potential clients, publishers, or collaborators.
Use these wins to pitch publishers or agents, demonstrating your credentials with real examples of your writing skill.
This approach helps turn contest success into tangible career opportunities.
FAQs
Search online writing platforms, check contest websites, and follow writing organizations that regularly host competitions with cash rewards to find suitable opportunities.
Review contest guidelines, entry fees, deadlines, eligibility, judging criteria, and the type of writing accepted to select the best fit for your style and goals.
Follow contest instructions carefully, submit your best work, adhere to deadlines, and consider tailoring your entry to the contest theme or criteria for better chances.
