Publish on Amazon KDP for Free
Short Answer
Amazon KDP does not charge upfront fees to publish an ebook or paperback. You upload files, set pricing, and KDP takes a royalty share and print costs when books sell. Editing, design, and ads are separate costs you may choose.
Educational guide from Authors Pilot. Platform fees and print costs can still apply - always check the retailer's official help pages.
Is Amazon KDP free to use?
Creating a KDP account and publishing titles does not require an upfront listing fee. That is why authors search for publish on Amazon KDP for free.
KDP earns money when your book sells: ebook royalty rates depend on list price and territory; paperbacks subtract printing cost before your royalty. Expanded distribution and ads have their own rules - read Amazon’s current help pages before you launch.
Ebook vs paperback on KDP
Ebooks need a reflowable manuscript (often EPUB or a clean Word file KDP can convert) plus a cover image that meets KDP’s pixel guidelines.
Paperbacks need a print-ready interior PDF at your trim size and a full wrap cover PDF. Free DIY is possible, but print specs are less forgiving than ebook uploads.
- Start with ebook if you want the fastest free path
- Add paperback after your interior and cover match trim rules
- Use KDP’s free ISBN option for paperbacks if you do not need your own imprint ISBN
DIY steps to publish on KDP
Sign in at KDP, complete tax and payment information so royalties can be paid, then create a new ebook or paperback title.
Enter metadata carefully - title, subtitle, description, keywords, and categories drive search. Upload manuscript and cover, set territories and pricing, then submit for KDP review.
For a deeper walkthrough that overlaps this topic, see our blog guide How to Publish on Amazon KDP. This page focuses on the free-cost framing and realistic caveats.
Common free-KDP mistakes
Uploading an unedited manuscript can damage reviews. A free listing does not fix quality issues.
Low-resolution covers, wrong trim sizes, and keyword stuffing can delay approval or hurt conversion. Follow Amazon’s current file guidelines rather than third-party rumors.
Official resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Does KDP take my rights?
You grant Amazon a license to sell the book while you publish there. You keep copyright. Exclusive programs like KDP Select have extra terms - read them before enrolling.
Do I need an ISBN for a Kindle ebook?
No. KDP assigns an ASIN for Kindle ebooks. Paperbacks can use a free KDP ISBN or your own purchased ISBN.
Ready for another free channel?
After KDP, many authors add Kobo or Apple Books without upfront listing fees.
Paid Authors Pilot services (optional)
Want help with KDP files?
Our paid Amazon KDP publishing services cover formatting and setup if you prefer not to DIY.