How to Create a Paid Newsletter with WordPress (Step-by-Step Guide)
Monetizing your expertise through a paid newsletter is a powerful way to generate recurring revenue. With WordPress, you can easily set up a subscription-based newsletter, offer exclusive content, and automate payments.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to launching your paid newsletter in 2025.
Why Start a Paid Newsletter?
✅ Recurring Revenue – Earn predictable monthly/annually from subscribers.
✅ Direct Audience Access – Build a loyal community without algorithm dependency.
✅ Exclusive Content Control – Offer premium insights, downloads, or early access.
✅ Scalable & Automated – Use plugins to manage subscriptions effortlessly.
Step 1: Choose the Right WordPress Platform
For a paid newsletter, self-hosted WordPress (WordPress.org) is the best choice because:
- Full control over monetization
- Ability to install membership & payment plugins
- No restrictions on email marketing integrations
Recommended Hosting:
- SiteGround (Optimized for WordPress)
- Kinsta (High-performance hosting)
- Bluehost (Beginner-friendly)
Step 2: Install a Membership & Payments Plugin
To restrict content and accept payments, you’ll need a membership plugin.
Best WordPress Plugins for Paid Newsletters
1. MemberPress (Best All-in-One Solution)
Set up subscription tiers (monthly/yearly)
Restrict premium content
Integrates with Stripe, PayPal, and WooCommerce
Drip content & automate emails
2. Paid Memberships Pro (Flexible & Affordable)
Free core plugin (with premium add-ons)
Supports recurring payments
Works with Mailchimp, ConvertKit, and more
3. Restrict Content Pro (Simple & Lightweight)
Easy paywall setup
Email newsletter integrations
Supports discount codes & trials
Step 3: Set Up Payment Gateways
Connect a payment processor to accept subscriptions:
Stripe (Best for credit/debit cards)
PayPal (Widely used, supports subscriptions)
WooCommerce Subscriptions (If you already use WooCommerce)
Pro Tip: Offer multiple payment options to maximize conversions. Our YouTube channel; https://www.youtube.com/@easythemestore
Step 4: Create & Protect Premium Newsletter Content
Write exclusive posts (members-only articles, PDFs, videos).
Use your membership plugin to restrict access.
Set up automated emails (via Mailchimp, ConvertKit, or MailerLite).
Example Newsletter Content Ideas:
Weekly industry insights
Downloadable templates
Behind-the-scenes updates
Early access to new content
Step 5: Automate Email Deliveries
To send your paid newsletter, integrate an email marketing service:
Best Email Marketing Tools for Paid Newsletters
ConvertKit (Best for creators, easy automation)
Mailchimp (Good for beginners, supports paid tiers)
MailerLite (Affordable with premium features)
ActiveCampaign (Advanced automation & segmentation)
How to Set Up Automated Emails:
Connect your email service to WordPress (via Zapier or plugin integrations).
Schedule & segment emails for paid subscribers.
Step 6: Promote Your Paid Newsletter
To attract subscribers:
✔ Offer a Free Trial (7-14 days)
✔ Create a Lead Magnet (Free sample newsletter)
✔ Leverage Social Media & SEO
✔ Run Paid Ads (Facebook, LinkedIn, or Google Ads)
Step 7: Optimize & Scale
Track performance (open rates, cancellations).
Upsell higher-tier subscriptions (e.g., VIP access).
Engage with subscribers (Q&A sessions, polls).
Final Thoughts
With WordPress + a membership plugin + email marketing tool, you can launch a profitable paid newsletter in under an hour.
Ready to start? Pick a plugin like MemberPress or Paid Memberships Pro, set up payments, and begin monetizing your expertise today!
💡 Which niche will your paid newsletter cover? Let us know in the comments! 🚀