In today’s digital-first world, Wattpad has emerged as one of the most powerful storytelling platforms for writers to share their stories and build a global fanbase. But while it’s easy to get started on Wattpad, the more important question for serious authors is:
“How many reads on Wattpad do you actually need to start making money?”
The answer isn’t as straightforward as one might hope. Unlike YouTube, where views directly correlate with ad revenue, Wattpad operates through a more selective monetization system.
This article provides a comprehensive breakdown of how earning works on Wattpad, the real value of reads, and what it takes to turn storytelling into a source of income.
📖 What Is Wattpad?
Wattpad is an online writing and reading platform with over 90 million active users worldwide. It allows writers to publish their stories chapter by chapter while readers engage in real-time through comments, votes, and shares.
From amateur stories to full-blown novels, Wattpad covers genres like:
Some of Wattpad’s biggest successes—like After by Anna Todd—have evolved into bestselling novels and movie franchises.
💰 Can You Actually Get Paid on Wattpad?
Yes, you can get paid on Wattpad—but it’s not based directly on the number of reads. Instead, Wattpad has exclusive monetization programs such as:
- Wattpad Paid Stories
- Wattpad Stars
- Brand Partnerships
- Book Publishing Deals (Wattpad Books)
- Film and TV Adaptations (Wattpad Studios)
The key? Having a story that’s not only read but deeply engaged with.
⭐ How Monetization on Wattpad Really Works
Here’s a breakdown of the core programs that offer payment to writers:
1. Wattpad Paid Stories
- Readers use Wattpad Coins to unlock chapters.
- Authors earn a portion of these coins as real money.
- Must be invited or approved after application.
- Requirements: Completed story, high-quality writing, active reader base.
2. Wattpad Stars Program
- Exclusive program for top writers.
- Offers paid writing opportunities, brand deals, and publishing chances.
- Invitation-based or via application with strong performance metrics.
3. Wattpad Books & Studios
- High-performing stories may be published traditionally or adapted for film/TV.
- You retain author royalties and rights unless otherwise agreed.
📊 Do Reads Matter? Yes — But Not How You Think
A “read” on Wattpad is a view of a single part/chapter of a story. So if a reader reads 20 chapters, that’s 20 reads—not one.
Reads help, but they are not everything.
Wattpad looks at a combination of metrics to determine monetization potential:
- Engagement (votes, comments, shares)
- Completion rates (how many finish your story)
- Frequency of updates
- Genre performance
- Community presence
📈 So, How Many Reads Do You Need to Get Paid?
While Wattpad doesn’t disclose exact numbers, general benchmarks based on successful authors suggest:
| Program | Estimated Minimum Reads | Other Key Factors |
| Wattpad Paid Stories | 50,000 – 250,000 | High-quality completed story, consistent uploads |
| Wattpad Stars | 100,000+ | Strong engagement, fanbase, completed story |
| Brand Sponsorships | 500,000+ | Niche appeal, professional tone, clean formatting |
| Book Publishing Deals | 1 million+ | Exceptional story arcs, unique concept, broad audience |
| TV/Film Adaptations | 2M+ | Cultural relevance, dramatic potential, fan engagement |
📝 Other Ways to Earn from Wattpad
If you aren’t in a monetized program yet, you can still benefit by:
➤ Entering Contests
Wattpad runs writing contests with cash prizes and promotional features.
➤ Accepting Tips (Wattpad Coins)
Available in certain regions, readers can tip authors as a thank-you.
➤ Off-platform Revenue
Use Wattpad as a launchpad to sell eBooks, promote Patreon pages, or build a personal author brand.
🧠 What Really Gets You Noticed (Besides Reads)
If you want to make money on Wattpad, these strategies are more powerful than chasing read counts:
1. High Engagement
Encourage comments and respond to readers. Wattpad tracks how often readers interact with you.
2. Reader Retention
Are people finishing your book? If not, work on pacing, plot structure, and editing.
3. Writing in Popular Genres
Some genres monetize faster than others. These include:
- Teen Romance
- Fantasy (especially Urban)
- Horror
- Coming-of-age fiction
4. Frequent Updates
Regular uploads help you rank better in search results and attract algorithm attention.
🔥 Success Stories: Wattpad Writers Who Got Paid Big
✨ Anna Todd – After
What began as fanfiction grew into a billion-read story, leading to a book deal and movie franchise.
✨ Isabelle Ronin – Chasing Red
Started on Wattpad, became one of the most-read stories with over 250 million reads and a traditional publishing contract.
✨ Ali Novak – The Heartbreakers
From Wattpad fame to book deals with Sourcebooks.
These authors didn’t just get high read counts—they built loyal reader bases, wrote consistently, and told emotionally compelling stories.
Read More: How Much Does a Kirkus Review Cost? A Complete Breakdown for Authors
💡 Tips to Boost Your Read Count & Monetization Chances
- 🎯 Have a killer title and professional-looking cover
- 🧩 Use cliffhangers and strong openings to keep readers coming back
- 💬 Engage in comments to build loyal readers
- 📅 Post on a schedule (weekly is ideal)
- 🔗 Promote your Wattpad story on TikTok, Instagram, Reddit, and niche communities
- 🤝 Collaborate with other Wattpad writers for mutual promotion
✅ Final Thoughts
There is no “magic number” of reads that unlocks payment on Wattpad. But if you’re aiming for:
- 50,000–100,000+ reads with high engagement, you’re already in the monetization conversation.
- From there, Paid Stories, Stars Program, and adaptation deals become real possibilities.
It’s not just about how many people read your work—it’s about how much they care, interact, and stick with you from chapter to chapter.
So, keep writing, keep sharing, and most importantly—keep engaging with your readers.
❓ FAQs
Q1. Can I monetize fanfiction?
No, fanfiction is not eligible for Wattpad’s paid programs due to copyright issues.
Q2. Do I need to apply for these programs?
Some programs like Wattpad Stars or Paid Stories are invite-only, but others accept applications.
Q3. Are writers outside the U.S. eligible to earn?
Yes, but monetization tools like coin tipping may vary by country.
Q4. How often should I post to gain reads faster?
Aim to publish at least once a week for consistent growth.
