Transitioning Your Publishing Journey: How to Create an Account on KDP

With the closure of CreateSpace and the merger with Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) in 2018, you'll need to direct your efforts to KDP for both ebook and paperback publishing on Amazon. This guide will walk you through the steps to create an account on KDP and start your publishing journey.

1. Visit the KDP Website

To begin, visit the KDP website. This is where all publishing activities will be managed, from account setup to the publication of your books.

2. Sign In or Create an Account

Depending on your existing Amazon account status, follow these steps:

If you already have an Amazon account: Sign in using your Amazon credentials. This will directly link your KDP account to your existing Amazon account, streamlining the process. If you don’t have an Amazon account: Click on the “Sign up” button to create a new account. Follow the simple steps to set up your account, including setting up a strong and secure password and providing the necessary personal information.

3. Complete Your Account Setup

Once you've signed in to KDP, you'll need to provide additional information that will help you publish your books effectively:

Your Name and Contact Information: Enter your full name and an email address you frequently use. This information will be displayed on your published books and is essential for communication between you and Amazon. Your Billing Information: KDP requires your payment information to process your sales. Set up your payment method now to ensure seamless transactions. Your Tax Information: Providing accurate tax information is important for tax purposes and for ensuring that you receive the correct payouts. Follow the prompts to enter your tax identification number and any other relevant details.

4. Set Up Your KDP Account

After completing your account setup and providing all the necessary information, you may need to go through a few more steps in the account setup process:

Payment and Tax Information: Go through the prompts to verify your payment and tax information. Privacy Settings: Review and adjust your privacy settings to control how your personal information is shared. Customizations: Customize your profile with a profile picture, bio, and other useful details that will help you promote your books on KDP.

5. Start Publishing

With your account fully set up, you can now begin the exciting process of publishing your books:

Upload Your Manuscript: Use the KDP Select program to upload your ebook. Follow the instructions to format and submit your manuscript. Create Your Book Cover: Design a professional-looking cover for your book. KDP offers cover design tools to help you create a compelling visual representation of your book. Review and Submit: Review all the details of your book, including pricing, genres, and categories. Once everything is correct, submit your book for publication.

Support and Resources for Authors

While Amazon does not offer phone support for KDP, there are several resources available to help you navigate the publishing process:

Author Tools: KDP offers a range of tools designed to help you prepare and publish your books effectively. Tips and Resources: Explore the various self-publishing resources on the KDP website to gain valuable insights and tips from experienced authors. Barnes and Noble: Consider using the BN Press option to publish your print books through Barnes and Noble, in addition to Amazon. IngramSpark: Explore other publishing options like IngramSpark, which offers the possibility of wider distribution through bookstores. While there may be a setup fee, the cost can be offset by the increased reach and potential sales.

Conclusion

The transition from CreateSpace to KDP may seem daunting, but with the right steps and resources, you can successfully publish and distribute your books. By following the steps outlined in this guide and exploring additional publishing options, you can ensure your book is available to a wide audience and generate the income you deserve.