Are you considering hiring a ghostwriter from the Philippines? If so, you’re not alone. The Philippines has long been a reliable source of skilled professionals for global clients—especially in the fields of writing, communication, and creative services.
With English being the country’s second language and the main language of commerce, education, and politics, Filipino writers have carved out a strong reputation in the global marketplace. Many authors, business leaders, and thought professionals now look to the Philippines for ghostwriting help, whether for books, blogs, or speeches.
But the big question remains: how much does it actually cost to hire a ghostwriter in the Philippines? Let’s take a deep dive into the subject, looking at not just pricing but also the factors that influence fees, the writing process, and what to expect when you hire a ghostwriter.
Why Talk About Ghostwriting Costs?
Ghostwriting is a unique service, often shrouded in secrecy. After all, the whole premise is that someone else writes the words while another person takes the credit. Because of this, many literary agencies and freelance ghostwriters avoid openly discussing pricing.
But here’s the truth: if you’re serious about working with a ghostwriter, you need clarity before you even begin. Talking openly about costs allows clients to set realistic expectations and helps ghostwriters establish fair, transparent working relationships.
With over two decades in the industry, we believe there’s no shame in discussing numbers. In fact, it’s the first step to making sure both client and writer are on the same page.
So, How Much Would a Book Cost with a Filipino Ghostwriter?
When hiring a ghostwriter in the Philippines, pricing typically falls into a range rather than a single fixed number. For book-length projects, you can expect costs to range from $700 to $1,500 per month, depending on the scope and complexity of the work.
Many ghostwriters—ourselves included—prefer to work with a monthly fee structure. This approach offers several benefits:
- Predictability: Clients know exactly what they’re paying each month.
- Focus on progress: Writers can focus on quality output without worrying about nickel-and-dime billing.
- Reduced stress: Both parties avoid the hassle of constant renegotiation.
Essentially, the project moves forward steadily, month by month, until the manuscript is complete.
Factors That Influence Ghostwriting Costs
Not all projects are created equal. A short business book written in a straightforward tone will naturally cost less than a complex, research-heavy biography. Let’s explore the major factors that impact ghostwriting fees in the Philippines.
Complexity and Difficulty of the Material
The more complex the subject, the more time and effort it requires. For example:
- A self-help book that relies on personal anecdotes may be easier to draft.
- A technical manual, historical biography, or medical text may demand weeks of specialized research.
The more nuanced or detail-heavy the project, the higher the fee will likely be.
Time Required for Research
Good ghostwriting goes beyond stringing words together. It involves digging deep into a subject—sometimes interviewing experts, reviewing documents, or piecing together timelines.
For instance:
- A motivational book may require just a few reference points and client interviews.
- A business or scientific book could mean hours of fact-checking, library research, and analysis.
Research-heavy projects increase the workload, which influences the overall cost.
Writing Style and Voice
Matching an author’s voice is one of the trickiest parts of ghostwriting. Some clients prefer a professional, no-nonsense style. Others need a warm, conversational tone. Some may even want a dramatic, literary flair.
The effort required to adapt writing style—and revise drafts until it perfectly aligns with the client’s vision—can affect fees. Writers who can seamlessly capture a unique voice bring added value to the table.
Additional Services
Ghostwriting isn’t just about drafting text. Many clients also need:
- Proofreading
- Developmental editing
- Line editing
- Formatting support
Some ghostwriters include these services in their package; others charge separately. If you’re looking for a full-service arrangement where your manuscript is polished and ready for publication, expect costs on the higher end of the range.
Why Hire a Ghostwriter from the Philippines?
You may be wondering: why not just hire locally in your country? Here are a few reasons clients continue to turn to Filipino ghostwriters.
Strong English Proficiency
Filipino writers are educated in English from a young age, making them highly skilled in grammar, vocabulary, and communication. This fluency makes them excellent partners for projects targeting global English-speaking audiences.
Competitive Pricing
Compared to rates in the U.S., UK, or Australia, Filipino ghostwriters often charge significantly lower fees without compromising quality. This makes the Philippines a cost-effective option for authors who want professional results on a reasonable budget.
Rich Creative Talent
Filipinos have a strong tradition of storytelling—rooted in history, oral literature, and modern pop culture. This natural creativity makes them skilled at crafting narratives, whether for fiction, memoirs, or business books.
Flexible Work Arrangements
Thanks to technology, collaborating with a Filipino ghostwriter is easy. Communication via email, Zoom, or project management platforms makes it possible to manage projects seamlessly, regardless of time zone differences.
Frequently Asked Questions: Ghostwriting Costs and The Ghostwriting Process
When discussing fees, clients often have similar questions. Below, we’ve expanded this FAQ section to not only cover money matters but also the writing process, collaboration style, and expectations.
Q: Can I pay per project instead of monthly?
Yes, some ghostwriters offer flat project-based fees. However, monthly retainers often work better for long-term projects like books. Project-based pricing can also be riskier if the scope of the work changes along the way. For example, if you add new chapters or require extensive revisions, the initial quote may no longer apply.
Q: What if I only need a few chapters written?
In this case, writers may charge per word or per page. Costs can range from $0.08 to $0.20 per word, depending on the complexity of the subject and the writing style required. If you only need partial assistance, make sure to clarify whether the ghostwriter will also help with consistency and transitions across the entire book.
Q: Do ghostwriters get royalties?
Typically, no. Ghostwriters are paid upfront for their work, and royalties remain with the named author. That said, some contracts include hybrid arrangements where the ghostwriter receives a lower upfront fee but shares in the book’s long-term revenue. This is rare but possible in cases where the writer and client have a strong collaborative relationship.
Q: How does the ghostwriting process actually work?
The process usually begins with a discovery phase. During this stage, the writer gathers information about your goals, voice, and vision for the book. This may involve questionnaires, interviews, or reviewing existing materials.
Next comes the outlining phase. The ghostwriter creates a detailed chapter-by-chapter outline, which you approve before full writing begins.
The drafting stage follows, where chapters are written and delivered in batches. You’ll review and provide feedback along the way. This back-and-forth ensures the book feels authentic to your voice.
Finally, the manuscript goes through editing and polishing, which may include developmental edits, proofreading, and formatting adjustments.
Q: How much involvement do I need to have as the client?
Your involvement depends on your preferences. Some clients like to be hands-on, reviewing each chapter and providing frequent feedback. Others prefer a more hands-off approach, letting the ghostwriter take the lead until major milestones.
In general, the more input you provide, the better the final manuscript will reflect your personality and vision. At minimum, expect to be involved in the initial interviews, outline approval, and major revision checkpoints.
Q: How long does it take to finish a book?
Timelines vary based on length and complexity, but most full-length books take six months to a year to complete. A shorter business book may take 3–4 months, while an in-depth biography could take more than a year.
The timeline also depends on how quickly you provide feedback. Delays in reviewing drafts can extend the project.
Q: How are revisions handled?
Most ghostwriting contracts include a certain number of revisions per chapter or per draft. These are usually minor adjustments—clarifying tone, tightening sentences, or rephrasing content. Major rewrites (such as changing the book’s direction halfway through) may require additional fees, so it’s best to finalize your vision early.
Q: What happens if I don’t like the draft?
This is where the collaboration process matters. Ghostwriters typically share work in smaller batches rather than waiting until the entire manuscript is finished. That way, if something feels off, adjustments can be made early.
If you’re unhappy with the direction, communicate clearly and promptly. Professional ghostwriters are used to adapting and revising. Still, it’s important to set expectations during the contract stage about how dissatisfaction will be handled.
Q: Will my ghostwriter keep the project confidential?
Absolutely. Confidentiality is a cornerstone of ghostwriting. Most contracts include non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) to protect your ideas, personal stories, and manuscripts. The ghostwriter’s role is to remain invisible while ensuring your voice shines through.
Tips for Hiring a Ghostwriter in the Philippines
If you’re thinking of moving forward, here are a few tips to make the process smoother:
- Clarify your vision early. Share outlines, notes, or reference books to give your writer a head start.
- Discuss timelines. Be realistic about how long a full manuscript will take—most books require 6–12 months.
- Agree on communication. Decide how often you’ll meet for updates and revisions.
- Set boundaries. Make sure you both understand what’s included in the monthly fee.
- Check samples. Always review a writer’s previous work to ensure their style fits your needs.
- Be prepared to invest time. Even though you’re hiring a ghostwriter, your guidance will shape the final product.
Key Takeaways
Hiring a ghostwriter is an investment—not just in words, but in your ideas, story, and brand. In the Philippines, professional ghostwriters typically charge between $700 and $1,500 per month for book projects, with pricing influenced by complexity, research needs, and additional services.
By being transparent about costs and expectations, you can build a smooth, collaborative relationship that brings your book to life.
If you’re ready to take the next step, don’t hesitate to reach out! The story you’ve been waiting to tell might just need the right ghostwriter to bring it into the world.
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