If you're experiencing issues with KDP Amazon not paying your royalties, it can be incredibly frustrating. Here's a guide on what steps you can take to address the situation:
1. Review Your Sales Reports: First, double-check your sales reports on the KDP (Kindle Direct Publishing) dashboard. Ensure that there are no discrepancies between the sales reported and the royalties paid. Sometimes, delays can occur due to processing times or reporting errors.
Log in to your KDP account and navigate to the "Reports" tab.
Check your sales reports for each of your books to ensure they accurately reflect the sales you've made.
Compare the reported sales figures with your expected royalties based on your book's pricing and royalty rates.
2. Contact Amazon Support: If you believe there's a genuine issue with your royalty payments, reach out to Amazon KDP support. You can do this through their online support system or by email. Provide them with all relevant details such as your book titles, ASINs, and any specific payment concerns. Be polite but firm in your communication.
Visit the KDP Help page or contact KDP support directly through your account dashboard.
Clearly explain the issue you're experiencing with your royalty payments.
Provide specific details such as book titles, ASINs (Amazon Standard Identification Numbers), and any relevant sales periods.
Be polite and concise in your communication, but also assertive about the problem you're facing.
3. Check Payment Thresholds: Amazon typically has payment thresholds that authors must reach before royalties are disbursed. Ensure that you've met these thresholds. For instance, if you're being paid via Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT), Amazon typically pays royalties approximately 60 days after the end of the month in which they were earned, as long as you've reached the minimum payment threshold.
Understand the payment thresholds set by Amazon. These thresholds vary depending on the payment method you've chosen.
For Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT), ensure you've reached the minimum payment threshold, which is typically $100 USD.
If you're being paid via check, verify if there's a minimum payment threshold and if it has been met.
4. Review Payment Information: Double-check that your payment information, such as bank account details or mailing address, is correct. Incorrect information can lead to payment delays or failures.
Go to your KDP account settings and verify the accuracy of your payment information, including your bank account details or mailing address.
Correct any inaccuracies to prevent payment delays or failures.
5. Monitor Communication: Keep an eye on your email for any communication from Amazon regarding your payment issue. They may request additional information or provide updates on the status of your inquiry.
Keep an eye on your email inbox for any correspondence from Amazon regarding your payment issue.
Respond promptly to any requests for additional information or clarification.
If you haven't received a response within a reasonable timeframe, consider following up with Amazon support.
6. Consider Legal Options: If you've exhausted all avenues for resolving the payment issue and believe you're entitled to royalties that haven't been paid, you may need to consider legal options. This could involve seeking legal advice or contacting relevant consumer protection agencies.
If you believe you've been unfairly denied royalties or if Amazon's response is unsatisfactory, you may need to explore legal options.
Consult with a legal professional who specializes in intellectual property or contract law to understand your rights and options.
Consider filing a complaint with relevant consumer protection agencies if you suspect unethical business practices.
7. Seek Community Support: Sometimes, other authors may have experienced similar issues and can offer advice or support. Consider reaching out to online author communities or forums for guidance and solidarity.
Engage with other authors and self-publishers in online communities, forums, or social media groups.
Share your experiences and seek advice from those who may have encountered similar issues.
Community support can provide valuable insights and solidarity during challenging times.
8. Document Everything: Throughout the process of addressing the payment issue, keep detailed records of all communication with Amazon, including dates, times, and the content of discussions. This documentation may be valuable if you need to escalate the matter further.
Keep thorough records of all communication with Amazon, including emails, support tickets, and phone calls.
Note down dates, times, and the content of discussions or correspondence.
Documentation will serve as evidence in case you need to escalate the issue or pursue legal action.
Remember to remain persistent and patient when dealing with royalty payment issues. While it can be frustrating, staying proactive and engaged in resolving the problem is key. By following these steps and being proactive in addressing the issue, you can increase the likelihood of resolving royalty payment issues with KDP Amazon effectively.