The answer is 0. Spending has nothing to do with promotions on Writing.Com. The qualifications for promotion include reviewing and interaction on the site, along with minimum amounts of time on the site. The full qualifications are listed in "Writing.Com 101" which is linked from the top of each page.

Promotions are made manually, however... and Writing.Com is a literal "Mom and Pop shop" -- two people. Active members in our community also know that our 5 year old daughter was diagnosed with Leukemia the first week of September, so they know that this type of manual promotion is not something we have time to take care of right now. We'll be back to it as we work through and manage our family health issues.

Real mature, Alan F. I got my yellow case after a a few weeks of reviewing like crazy and being active on the site. I have no idea what makes you think you have to buy something, but this question has revenge review written all over it.

Not what the yellow icon is about. The yellow case is a recognition for what an author brings to the site, their involvement and activities. You can join the site and be at whatever level of activity you choose, no one demands anything of you. The more you are active and interactive, the more you are noticed and with that may come recognition. I receive what I need from the site, all else gained is on top of that! So no purchase required is correct!