A Contact us and we'll call you back. We'll chat about the type of story you have and what you want to achieve – whether it's the maximum amount of money or the widest possible audience. You'll get a no-nonsense decision straightaway.

B We'll arrange the best possible deal for you and make sure it's one you are happy with. Most newspapers and magazines will then want you to sign a simple agreement that you will not speak to any other journalists until after the story has appeared. It will also set out the amount of money you will be paid upon publication - so it makes sense to sign as it guarantees your rights too!

C You'll tell your story in detail in a friendly chat. Talking over the phone is quicker but if you want to do it in person we can arrange it.

Some important points to consider

Are you happy to have your name, photo and at least part of your address published?
Other important people in the story will have to be named too.

Do you have photos of everyone involved and of key events, such as weddings or births?
This may be crucial to how big your story will be and how much money you can earn. Even a run-of-the-mill story can turn into a major article if there are great photos.

Has your story been featured anywhere else before?
Magazines and newspapers get lots of complaints if their readers have seen a story before. That's why most insist on stories being exclusive to them.

Can you prove that your story is true?
Publications don't want to be sued. If your story makes claims against people or companies do you have evidence such as photos, letters, legal documents or newspaper cuttings – and can other people back up what you are saying?