HWA’s Active (voting) members are all published professional writers of horror. But you needn’t be an established professional writer to join HWA. Your demonstrated intention to become a professional writer is all that’s required to join HWA at the Affiliate level, because we know the first professional-level sale is often the hardest.
To demonstrate your intention, all you need is one minimally paid publication in any of several categories. (This might be something as unassuming as a 500-word story for which you’ve received $25 or more.) Non-writing professionals with an interest in the field (such as illustrators, librarians, booksellers, producers, agents, editors, and teachers) can join at the Associate level without any publications. Check our Membership Rules to see which level you qualify for.
HWA also offers a Supporting Membership for non-professionals who would like to share and explore their interest in horror. Supporting members receive HWA’s monthly newsletter and our internet mailers, have the opportunity recommend works for the Bram Stoker Awards®, and the opportunity to be involved with HWA’s chapters, Mentor Program, and access to some of their favorite horror writers via a private message board.