The National Writers Union is the only labor union that represents all freelance writers in all genres, formats and media, who work for American publishers or employers. It is committed to improving the economic and working conditions of freelance writers through the collective strength of its 7,000 members in 17 local chapters throughout the United States. The National Writers Union is affiliated with the United Automobile Workers (UAW) and, therefore, with the AFL-CIO. With the combined strength of its membership and the support of the United Automobile Workers (UAW), the NWU seeks to advance the economic and working conditions of writers. It does so by challenging the corporate media giants, lobbying congress to pass legislation that protects the rights of writers, creating fair alternatives to unfair practices, and educating and empowering its members. Membership benefits include professional development seminars; grievance resolution for disputes between writers and publishers; contract advice; health and dental insurance; a job hotline; professional liability insurance; and networking opportunities..

NWU publications available for purchase include Standard Journalism Contract and Handbook, NWU Guide to Book Contracts, NWU Preferred Literary Agent Agreement, Understanding the Agent-Author Relationship, NWU Guide and Model Contract for Ghostwriting & Collaboration, NWU Guide to Fair Use, Authors in the New Information Age, Electronic rights Guidelines for Journalists, Guide to Small Claims Court, Copyright Registration Forms, On The Road: The NWU Guide to Book Promotion, NWU Guide to Freelance Rules an Standard Practice,