Writers on Substack

How do I offer a lead magnet on Substack?

Substack does not have a built-in lead magnet delivery feature, so most writers put the download link in the customized welcome email new subscribers receive, and mention the freebie in their subscribe prompts and posts.

The simple Substack setup

  • 1Host the PDFAny stable link you control.
  • 2Edit the welcome emailAdd the freebie link near the top.
  • 3Promote itName the freebie in posts, notes and your about page.
  • 4Keep it on-topicThe freebie should preview what you write about.

Because every new free subscriber gets the same welcome email, this works best with one main freebie at a time.

Read the full answer

Using a separate opt-in page

If you want a branded page just for the freebie, you can collect emails on that page, deliver the PDF there, and then invite people to subscribe to your Substack. Importing emails into Substack should only be done with clear consent for the newsletter.

Substack updates its settings often, so check its help center for where the welcome email lives today.

Common follow-up questions

Can I give paid subscribers a different freebie?

Substack lets you customize welcome messaging; check its current settings. Many writers keep one free freebie and put extras inside paid posts.

Will a freebie hurt my Substack growth?

Not if it is on-topic. An unrelated freebie can bring subscribers who never read.

Updated 2026-11-15. General information; not legal, medical or financial advice.