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Membership Requirements

Let’s give you the short version first:

You’ve published at least two novels—each of which is at least 50,000 words long, and neither of which is a box set or collection of shorts.

If one or both novels are traditionally published, you’ve earned at least $3,000 on each title from an advance and/or royalties in any consecutive 12-month period following publication.

If one or both novels are self-published, you’ve earned at least $3,000 on each title in any consecutive 12-month period following publication.

Does this sound like you? Great! You can apply now.

There’s a non-refundable one-time application fee $15
Apply Now

If you’re not sure or want more detail, read on…

The following criteria apply whether a book is traditionally published or indie/self published and must be met independently for each of the two qualifying books presented.

To be considered for membership, an applicant must have published at least two novels.

If requested for verification purposes by the Membership Committee, the applicant will also provide copies of contracts, other documentation as requested, and/or the published works themselves.

NINC defines a “novel” as a  work of fiction consisting of at least 50,000 words that is published as a single work.

If a pseudonym appears on the copyright page, the applicant may be asked to present proof of pseudonym ownership by sharing the relevant portion of the applicant’s contract, copyright application materials, or other identifying documentation.

Works that do not constitute a novel under this definition include: a box set; a bundle; a collection of short fiction; a work published in short episodes or installments.

In cases of co-authorship, both applicants may use the same qualifying works for their applications. If requested, co-authors must supply proof of co-authorship, such as a contract, copyright page, or other document establishing the qualifying books are co-authored.

The applicant must provide the Membership Committee with the titles and publication details, such as release date, copyright registration, ISBN, publisher, and/or other relevant information, for each of the two qualifying works.

Amazon sales statements are acceptable, but a specific breakdown of sales per book must be documented.

The applicant must show proof of  earnings of no less than $3,000 for each of the two qualifying works from advance payments, royalties, and/or book sales for print book and/or ebook formats (no subsidiary rights income) within any consecutive 12-month period. It does not have to be the same 12-month period for both books.

At the Membership Committee’s discretion, applicants may be asked to provide additional documentation if they wish to continue the application process.

Application timeline & fee

The application process is slow but thorough. It takes 6–8 weeks for an application to be approved. Thanks for your patience! All applications for membership must be submitted with a $15 non-refundable application fee.

Membership dues

If your application is approved, you must pay annual membership dues of $95 USD. You will be sent a link to pay once you are approved.

  • New members who join January 1– June 30 pay the full yearly dues ($95).
  • New members who join July 1–December 31 pay the dues for half the year ($45).
  • If you have any technical difficulties, please contact admin@ninc.com for help.
  • In the event your application is not approved, you will not be charged for dues.
  • If your application is approved but you don’t join NINC, you will not be charged for dues.