How are my royalties paid, and how much do I earn per book?
Last updated: October 9, 2026
Retailers pay your royalties directly into your own Amazon KDP and IngramSpark accounts. Columbia Publication takes no share of your royalties and never handles royalty payments.
How is a paperback royalty calculated on Amazon?
Amazon KDP pays 60% of the list price on Amazon.com when the list price is $9.99 or higher, and 50% when it is $9.98 or lower. The printing cost is then deducted. KDP paperback royalty rules
| Example: 300-page black-and-white paperback | Amount |
|---|---|
| List price | $16.99 |
| Royalty rate (list price $9.99 or more) | 60% = $10.19 |
| KDP printing cost ($1.00 + $0.012 per page) | $4.60 |
| Your royalty per copy sold on Amazon.com | $5.59 |
What about ebooks and bookstores?
KDP ebooks priced between $2.99 and $9.99 can earn 70% (less a small delivery fee for file size); other prices earn 35%. Through IngramSpark, your earnings are the list price minus the wholesale discount you choose and the printing cost. You set the list price and the discount yourself in your own account.
Does Columbia Publication take a percentage?
No. You pay a flat fee for the services in your package, and every royalty goes to you. Because the accounts are in your name, the retailers report your sales and pay you directly.
Related questions
- Who owns my Amazon KDP and IngramSpark accounts?
- What does the $1,499 Global Publish package include?
- Can I move my book to another company later?
- All help centre questions
Still have a question? Email support@columbiapublication.com or call +1 (703) 997-9787.