Free Magazine Subscriptions

Rather than making a lengthy post for that one magazine, I thought it would be better to give you an informative post that I can link back to with each post regarding free magazine subscriptions.

There are two main sites that offer free subscriptions, freebizmag.com and mercurymagazines.com. These sites use similar formats to connect publishers with readers.  When a magazine is listed there are only a set number of subscriptions available so I recommend not hesitating when an offer is posted.

When you sign up for a free subscription, the sites will ask you some questions about your profession.  These questions will help to determine if you fit the demographic the publisher wants to give the free subscription to.  Be honest when answering these questions, although you can be flexible with your answers.  For example I sometimes list myself in the field of communications as a webmaster because of Making Cents of It instead of as an educator.

Below are a few FAQs from the sites to help answer any confusion you might have.  See the individual websites for more information.

Are these magazine subscriptions really free?
Yes.  There are no hidden costs, bills, or obligations.  You will never be asked for a credit card number or other form of payment.  Magazine companies make the majority of their money from advertisers.  The more issues in circulation, the more people will see the ads, and the more money the publisher can charge the advertisers.  The best way to get the circulation up is to offer discounts and free subscriptions.  Advertisers that want to target a specific audience will pay a premium in the publisher.  Everyone wins.

Why am I asked about my profession and industry?
Publishers each choose their own criteria for the free subscriptions.  The questionnaire is used to determine your eligibility.  Therefore if you have more than one job or work in multiple industries, you will need to fill out a separate questionnaire to see additional selections.

How long will it take to get my first issue?
If you qualify, it will take approximately 6 to 8 weeks to receive your first issue.

How is it determined that I'm qualified for a free subscription?
After completing and submitting the questionnaire, your answers are forwarded to the publisher for approval. Based on those answers the publisher determines if you are qualified for a free subscription. The publisher reserves the right to serve subscriptions only to those individuals who meet the publication qualifications.

Last Updated: July 27, 2012