When I logged into my KDP dashboard recently and saw an alert about royalty rate changes, I knew I needed to take a closer look. As indie authors, we wear so many hats—writer, editor, designer, publisher, and yes, business strategist.
And this is one of those times when the business side needs our attention.
What changed?
On June 10, 2025, Kindle Direct Publishing rolled out a change that affects royalties on paperback and hardcover books priced below a certain threshold. If your book is priced under $9.99 in the U.S., your royalty rate just dropped from 60 percent to 50 percent. This change might seem small, but it can make a big difference in your earnings—especially if you’ve been pricing your books on the lower end to stay competitive.
In the episode, I gave an example of how this might work. PLUS, if you’re a paid subscriber, keep scrolling because I have an example of how the calculator looks at each rate.
So, what should you do?
Check your prices across all marketplaces. KDP has different thresholds for different currencies, and your royalty rate may have changed even if you set your prices in USD.
Use the KDP Royalty Calculator to estimate your earnings based on page count, ink type, and pricing.
Adjust your list price if needed—it’s better to sell fewer copies and earn more per book than to make nothing on every sale.
This change might feel like a curveball, but it’s also a reminder: pricing is part of your publishing strategy. Don’t just pick a number that sounds good—run the numbers, understand your costs, and price for profit.
We’re not just authors—we’re publishers, and every decision we make affects the sustainability of our writing careers. I hope this helps you move forward with confidence.
P.S. Keep scrolling for the bonus.
Listen to this episode with a 7-day free trial
Subscribe to Indie Author Blueprint to listen to this post and get 7 days of free access to the full post archives.
