Authors know that their work is worth something. But what is it worth to you in payouts rather than revenue? Pay to Play is as big a thing in the world of authors as it is in any other artful skill you may wish to market.

There are a lot of services out there. Some are free and some will cost you money. When do you choose one over the other? When can you choose the free route to save yourself money? I've got a few tips below:

Website

If you are a new author without a following, why would you pay for a domain name and hosting site without a following? There are many free sites that you can transition to paid when you are as big as Ray Bradbury or Stephen King. In the meantime, Wix, Weebly, Wordpress, and others offer a free alternative to paying for something in advance of your success.

Writing Programs

There are many options out there for writing. But do you need all those bells and whistles? If you cannot afford Microsoft, Scrivener, or other such paid services, why not just download Libre Office, Open Office Org, or go to the increasingly popular Google Docs? Save money until you are a star; use something that is perfectly fine for writing until you can afford the big boys.

Beta Readers

There are many authors and educated readers available for free. Their input and advice is welcome and you can take it or leave it. Why would someone pay a person to beta read when they can find thousands willing to do it for free?

Editors

Now, here's where your money should go. Editors who offer their services for free may be good, don't get me wrong, but remember you get what you pay for here more times than not.

Editors charge based on their experience in the field, or their understanding of the market and the economic status of most authors who would use them. 

Be sure, when choosing an editor who you will be paying, that you get credentials, reviews, and be comfortable with the person. If you have a good working relationship with your editor, you can keep the checks and balances.

Publishing

Never, ever, pay, up-front for publishing. That is called vanity publishing. They get their money but what happens to your royalties? What if they do nothing else after putting your book out there? Do they still expect a percentage of your royalties after you've paid them hundreds or even thousands of dollars? Publishing has become a tenuous service thanks to indie publishing for most vendors and the ebook phenomenon. If you choose to use a publishing house, that is great, do your homework, get an agent (also expects to be paid) and be sure the publisher has your interests at heart and not their own. Read that contract! If it sounds too one-sided, decline the offer or ask for contract modifications.

Marketing

Marketing is another place you may do well to pay someone. Get a PA (many readers may offer to help you for free) and a marketing group of some kind who will get your name, your titles, and your reputation out to the world. You may have to pay them but the money is well worth the results if you find more sales thanks to them. 

Conclusion

No matter the route you choose, beware of the money-hungry who take what you give them but you get nothing in return. Many of you wish to be authors for your income. Keep in mind that some services may cost you money and that should be factored into what your expectations are. Use free services whenever you can until you are established and can afford the big-boys!