How to Tell if a Publishing Company is Legitimate

The world of publishing is vast and, unfortunately, it’s not always as glamorous as it seems. Aspiring authors can often feel lost in a sea of publishers, wondering which ones can help them achieve their literary dreams and which ones are just looking to take advantage. So, how can you tell if a publishing company is legitimate?

First, a reputable publishing company will have a clear and professional website. This is often your first impression, and it should reflect their commitment to quality. A well-maintained site should be easy to navigate, with sections like “About Us,” “Submission Guidelines,” and “Contact Information” clearly available. If the website is poorly designed, full of typos, or lacks clear information, it's a sign to proceed with caution.

Next, check for transparency. A legitimate publisher should have no problem providing contact information, such as a physical address and a working phone number. If the only means of contact is through email or a generic submission portal, it might raise a red flag. Furthermore, try reaching out. If their response is slow, unprofessional, or evasive, this could indicate a lack of proper business operations.

Another key factor is the publisher's reputation. Look up reviews, testimonials, and any feedback from authors who have worked with the company. If the company is well-established, you’ll likely find plenty of information about their past books, success stories, and industry recognition. If they’re new or obscure, check if they’ve been involved in any reputable industry events like book fairs, conferences, or awards. Trustworthy publishers often have solid industry connections.

Professional publishers are committed to quality, and editing and design services should be part of their offering. A legitimate publisher does not simply act as a printer—they should provide editing, proofreading, and book design services to ensure the final product meets industry standards. If a publisher offers you the chance to publish without any discussion of these services, they may not be fully invested in your book’s success.

Contracts are crucial. A reputable publisher will offer you a formal contract outlining rights, royalties, and expectations. They should clearly define the terms, including how much you’ll earn in royalties, the length of your book’s availability with them, and the territories where your book will be sold. If they refuse to provide a contract, or if the contract terms seem overly favorable to them (e.g., taking too many rights or not compensating you adequately), it’s time to walk away.

Be aware of the business model. Legitimate publishing companies make their money through book sales, and they share a portion of those earnings with authors in the form of royalties. If a publisher asks for large upfront fees (for editing, marketing, or publication costs), they might be a vanity press rather than a legitimate publisher. Vanity presses charge authors for publishing services, while traditional publishers invest their resources in the books they publish.

Lastly, look for credibility in their offerings. Are they distributing your book in major bookstores or on reputable online platforms like Amazon or Barnes & Noble? Legitimate publishers typically work with distributors who can get books into stores, while vanity presses may only offer you limited distribution through smaller, less-known channels.