What Is ACS Paragon Plus?

What’s happening

Launched in 2023, the platform replaced multiple older systems with a single interface built on ScholarOne Manuscripts™. Now it streamlines submission, revision, and proof access in real time. According to ACS, the system serves over 50,000 authors every year across more than 1,400 journals. Editors and reviewers log in through their ACS ID, so the experience stays consistent from submission all the way to publication.

Step-by-step solution

1. Create or link your ACS ID

   New users head to paragonplus.acs.org and click “Create an ACS ID.” Returning users just sign in and link their existing ACS ID under “Connect your ACS ID with your Paragon Plus profile.” One login covers submission, review tasks, and proof access.

2. Prepare your manuscript

   Check the journal-specific rules in the Author Guidelines—structure, file formats, figure resolution, and so on. Make sure you’re also following the journal’s Open Access and Preprint Policies before hitting submit.

3. Submit via ACS Paragon Plus

   In your dashboard, pick “Submit a Manuscript,” choose the journal, upload every required file, and validate the metadata. You’ll get a confirmation email with your manuscript number within minutes.

4. Track your submission

   Live status updates show up under “My Manuscripts.” You’ll see editorial assessment, reviewer assignments, revision requests, and final decisions—all time-stamped and accessible under the same ACS ID.

5. Link ORCID (optional but recommended)

   During submission (or later via Profile → External Identifiers), click “Register for ORCID” or add your existing ORCID. This keeps your author identity consistent across platforms and journals.

If this didn’t work

• Portal not loading

  ACS Paragon Plus works best on current Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Safari versions as of 2026. Try clearing your cache, disabling extensions, or switching to incognito mode. Still stuck? Reset your password via the ACS Button → Change Password or use the in-platform chat.

• ACS ID not recognized

  ACS IDs expire after 24 months; renew yours at the ACS ID Center. If you’re locked out, email support@acs.org with your ID and details for account recovery.

• Submission stuck

  Hit the in-platform chat or email the journal’s editorial office via the “Contact Information” link in the Author Guidelines. Include your manuscript number and the exact error message so they can fix it faster.

Prevention tips

Action	Frequency	How
Update password	Every 12 months	Use ACS Button → Change Password. Make it a 12+ character passphrase with a symbol.
Verify ACS ID status	Before every submission	Check the ACS ID Center. Renew it 30 days early to avoid lapses.
Link ORCID proactively	Once per profile	Go to Profile → External Identifiers → Add ORCID. You’ll save time on every future submission.
Backup manuscript files	After each submission	Save a .zip with the final manuscript, figures, and supplementary data to cloud storage or an external drive.

How do I make an ACS Paragon Plus account?

Head to paragonplus.acs.org and click “Create an ACS ID” if you don’t already have one. After you register, log in and follow the prompts to connect your ACS ID with your Paragon Plus profile—you’ll then have full access to submission tools.

How do I link ACS Paragon Plus to ACS ID?

Sign into the submission site using your ACS ID credentials. The system automatically links your ID to your author dashboard, so you can track manuscripts, complete reviews, and access proofs across all ACS journals without switching logins.

How do I check my ACS manuscript status?

Every stage—editorial assessment, reviewer assignment, revision requests, and final decision—shows up with timestamps in a dedicated column. You’ll also get email alerts at each step, so you’re never left wondering what’s happening.

What is ACS ID?

Issued by the American Chemical Society, this ID lets you submit manuscripts, complete peer reviews, access proofs, and manage your profile in ACS Paragon Plus. It stays valid for 24 months and can be renewed through the ACS ID Center.

How do I get an ACS ID?

Visit paragonplus.acs.org and click “Create an ACS ID.” The process takes a few minutes and gives you immediate access to submission tools. Need help? Try the “Show Me What To Do” walkthrough or email support@acs.org.

How much does an ACS membership cost?

That fee unlocks journal subscriptions, career resources, and networking opportunities in more than 90 countries. Students and early-career chemists often qualify for discounts. Join or check pricing at acs.org/membership.

How do I link my ORCID to Paragon Plus?

In the submission form or under Profile → External Identifiers, click “Register for ORCID” or add your existing ORCID. This keeps your author identity consistent and speeds up future submissions across ACS journals and other platforms.

How do I publish in ACS journals?

Start by reviewing the target journal’s Author Guidelines for formatting and data requirements. Upload your manuscript, figures, and supplementary materials, then fill out the metadata form. Once you hit submit, you’ll get a confirmation email with a manuscript number and can track progress under “My Manuscripts.”

Is the American Chemical Society peer reviewed?

The ACS runs more than 1,400 journals, and each one uses a rigorous peer-review process managed through ACS Paragon Plus. According to the ACS Publishing Center, over 90% of submitted manuscripts go through external peer review before acceptance.

How do I change my ACS password?

Log in to your ACS account or Paragon Plus dashboard, click the ACS button in the top-right corner, and pick “Change Password.” Use a strong passphrase with at least 12 characters and a symbol. Updating your password once a year keeps your account secure.

How do I delete my ACS ID?

If you want to end your ACS ID, let it expire after 24 months of inactivity. For account issues, email support@acs.org to request consolidation or closure. ACS recommends keeping your ID active if you plan to submit or review manuscripts later on.

How long is ACS ID valid?

Renew it at the ACS ID Center about 30 days before it expires. Renewal is free and takes just a few minutes. An expired ID can be reactivated without any penalties.

What are the benefits of ACS membership?

Members enjoy discounted open-access fees, free or low-cost journal subscriptions, and access to career webinars and local section events. The ACS Membership Benefits page has the full list, including networking tools and education resources.

Do I have to pay for ACS membership when I join the Professional Year program?

The Professional Year program runs separately, so you don’t need ACS membership to participate. You can always join ACS on your own if you’d like to access member benefits during or after the program. Check with your program coordinator to see if membership is recommended.