What Authors Need to Know About IngramSpark’s New Terms & Conditions
- ctrmedianetwork1
- Sep 10
- 2 min read
Publishing with IngramSpark is a great way to get your books into bookstores, libraries, and online retailers. But if you’re an author or publisher using their platform, you may have recently received an email about updated Terms & Conditions.
At first glance, it looks like a lot of legal talk, but let me break it down for you so you can clearly see how it impacts your publishing business.
Key Changes That Affect Authors
1. Inactive Accounts May Be Terminated
If your account is inactive for six months or more, IngramSpark now has the right to close it.👉 Translation: Even if you aren’t publishing new titles right now, log in occasionally or update your metadata so your account doesn’t risk being closed.
2. Books Can Be Labeled “Non-Returnable”
One of the biggest shifts is that IngramSpark can now set your books as non-returnable even if you’d prefer them to be returnable.
Why does this matter? Bookstores often want the option to return unsold books, so being non-returnable can limit your bookstore reach.
👉 Tip: Check your settings and keep an eye on your distribution to see how this affects your strategy.
3. Digital Titles Definition Expanded
The definition of “Digital Titles” now covers any version of a book consumed outside of print. This includes eBooks, audiobooks, and potentially other multimedia formats.
👉 Translation: If you’re planning to release an audiobook, IngramSpark’s rules already cover it.
4. Retailer List Transparency Changed
The list of eBook retailers is no longer publicly available by link. You now have to request it directly from IngramSpark.
👉 Translation: If you care where your digital books are being sold, you’ll need to ask them for the list.
5. Fees and Payments
Revisions & eBook Fees: Always billed in USD (no local currency options).
New Co-Op Fees: IngramSpark introduced the option to charge for cooperative advertising or promotions.
👉 Translation: Watch your invoices closely for new charges, especially if you update titles often or participate in marketing pushes.
6. All Notices Sent by Email
Important updates, warnings, or notices will only go to the email you have on file.👉 Translation: Double-check that your account email is one you actively monitor.
7. Liability Adjustments
IngramSpark reduced some of the publisher liability obligations—slightly better protection for you as the author.
💡 What This Means for You as an Author
Stay active in your account (don’t let 6 months slip by).
Monitor whether your titles are marked returnable or non-returnable.
Be prepared for all fees in USD and potential new promo-related charges.
Keep your account email updated to avoid missing important notices.
Final Thoughts
While most of these changes are minor clarifications, a few could directly affect your sales strategy—especially the non-returnable policy and inactive account closures.
As authors, we need to stay on top of these shifts so that our hard work in publishing continues to pay off. Remember: your book is not just a passion project—it’s a business asset. Protect it by keeping yourself informed.
Disclaimer: This blog is for educational purposes only and does not provide legal, financial, or professional advice. Authors and publishers should always review the official IngramSpark Terms & Conditions and seek professional guidance when needed.
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