proofreading essays for money

How to Become a Proofreader in 5 Easy Steps (Beginner’s Guide)

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Proofreading is a great side hustle opportunity, but there are a few things you should know about it before you get started. Learn how to become a proofreader and what it takes to succeed in this industry.

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In the two years that I’ve been a full-time writer, I’ve gotten exponentially better at grammar and punctuation.

But as any of my editors will tell you, I’m not perfect. That’s why it’s so helpful to have proofreading tools and services available when I need them.

I’m not the only one who feels this way. There are many professions and industries where people rely on proofreaders to make sure the things they publish are free from errors.

Ever wonder what it takes to become one of those proofreaders and make money from home?

It’s a great side hustle opportunity, but there are a few things you should know about how to become a proofreader before you get started.

What Is Proofreading?

Proofreading is simply reading a document and marking or correcting any errors. A proofreader makes the final pass to ensure a published work is free of all spelling and grammar mistakes.

To be a proofreader, you must have great attention to detail and be willing to communicate if you’re not sure about something. If the proofreader is having a hard time understanding something, odds are the audience will, too. And the writer may not even read it once the proofreader’s done with it, so the document has to be perfect.

“What I didn’t realize about proofreading when I started – that I certainly know now – is that your clients really will depend on you to be a final proof and may not even glance at the content again before considering it finalized,” said Jennifer Johnson, a communications and public relations consultant at jentimecity.com.

How Much Do Proofreaders Make?

An experienced proofreader can charge anywhere from $20 to $45 an hour, depending on the scope of the work. According to the Editorial Freelancers Association, the average is $30 to $35 per hour, assuming 2,200 to 3,200 words per hour. PayScale reports the median yearly salary to come in at just under $45,000 per year.

Beverly Darnell, a writer for USInsuranceAgents.com, has been proofreading for nearly 30 years.

“I was a full-time contract proofreader for six months at a large insurance company,” Darnell said. “I was paid $23.00/hour for 40 hours a week of AP Style proofreading.”

What you make is also determined by how much your services are needed. If you choose an in-demand niche such as legal transcript reporting, you could have consistent work more easily than other niches.

Caitlin Pyle, a legal transcript proofreader and educator, earned just over $43,000 in her first year, working about 20 to 30 hours a week.

“There are a couple of reasons that transcript proofreading is popular,” Pyle said. “Court reporters are in high demand; there’s actually a projected shortage of these skilled professionals, and proofreaders enable reporters to focus on what makes them money: going to jobs and producing more pages.”

Related: How Tori Gellino Makes $1,200 per Month as a Virtual Proofreader

Proofreading vs. Copyediting vs. Scoping

“The first thing to know about proofreading — and this ties into how much you can charge — is that it’s critical to make sure you and your client are working from the same definition of “proofreading,” said Patti Podnar, a freelance content strategist at PattiPodnar.com.

“What if you realize that the content you’re proofreading is making an argument based on flawed logic? What if, from your own experience, you have additional information that would make the content stronger? Are they open to that kind of input? If so, you’re not just proofreading; you’re doing developmental editing and should charge accordingly.”

Copyediting and proofreading do much of the same thing, but they’re done in a particular order. Copyediting comes first, checking for initial grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors. A copy editor also corrects for things like the continuity of the story, clarity of phrases, copyright infringements, facts checking, and correct citations.

Proofreading is the final step before publishing. Once something is copyedited and formatted, a proofreader checks for any mistakes the editor missed or potentially introduced: issues with formatting, and visual consistency in headings, tables, etc.

Scoping is another service that often gets mistaken as proofreading. Scoping is editing transcripts for court reporters. Scopists use the same steno software that court reporters use with audio to ensure everything was transcribed as accurately as possible.

A scopist or court reporter will then hire a proofreader to go through the document one final time to catch small errors like capitalization, punctuation, and word usage.

How to Become a Proofreader in 5 Simple Steps 

You can start proofreading online as a side hustle — or potentially a full-time online business —  in as short as a few weeks. Using the right strategy will get you there faster than others.

1. Decide if You Have the Skills to Become a Proofreader

Proofreading isn’t for everyone. You have to have exceptional attention to detail and be able to work fast.

“If you overlook something, it could cost a company a lot of money to make corrections,” Darnell said. “It can also be fast-paced, high-volume work. You need to be a master multi-tasker who can complete tasks quickly.”

Sometimes you have to learn specialized skills beyond traditional punctuation and grammar.

“For legal transcript proofreading, you also have to adapt to the rules of transcripts, which aren’t the same as other proofreading or copy editing,” Pyle said. “You can’t change the grammar, ever — no matter how awful it is. Punctuation is more important than grammar in transcripts, and you have to know how to apply those rules to some really tricky constructions.”

While skills vary across different types of proofreading, some qualities are universal for all proofreaders.

• Reliability: A sought-after proofreader must be able to meet deadlines and respond to client emails promptly.
• Flexibility: They must be able to work with printed and digital materials.
• Perfectionism: Proofreaders should be meticulous and detail-oriented.

If you’re still unsure how to make money proofreading or if it’s a good fit for you at all, Caitlin Pyle offers a free workshop designed to introduce people to the field of proofreading online. It’s also packed with great advice and business-building tips for any type of freelancer.

2. Get Training on How to Become a Proofreader

To get started, you’ll need some proofreading training. Darnell recommends picking one style and committing to it.

“I suggest picking either AP or Chicago Style of writing and becoming so well-versed in it that you can tell which is being used within the first few sentences of a written document,” she said.

You can find free quizzes to test yourself on Chicago and AP Style , but there aren’t many places to learn the skills needed to become a good proofreader. That’s one of the reasons Pyle makes proofreading courses.

Her course, Transcript Proofreading: Theory and Practice , teaches students basic proofreading skills, how to set up their business,  and how to get and keep clients. Students complete more than 3,000 transcript pages and take three tests to graduate.

At the end of the self-paced course, which usually takes between two and four months to complete, graduates are well-equipped to start their own legal transcript proofreading business.

She also has a general proofreading course for people who want broader proofreading training. Her training aims to take the learning curve out of proofreading and get students to make more money faster.

3. Determine Your Niche

Once you’ve decided you’ve got the skills for proofreading and you enjoy it, it’s time to explore the niche options available. You can choose from several different types of proofreading niches depending on your strengths and time availability.

Print media proofreading: This is the most traditional type of proofreading. Checking for spelling, grammar, and formatting issues in newspapers, books, and other printed or online publications.

Marketing materials: Large companies spend millions of dollars on printed and online ad campaigns, and one mistake could cost them additional millions. A marketing proofreader checks the spelling, grammar, and formatting of ads, press releases, and emails.

Academic proofreading: Beyond grammar and spelling, academic proofreaders check references, citations, and style in assignments, dissertations, and course materials.

Proofreading translations: Proofreading translations may require proficiency in the translated language, but not always. These proofreaders specifically make sure the meaning and context of the translation are accurate.

Transcript proofreading: Many YouTube and podcast hosts will transcribe their audio for use on their website. Proofreaders here make sure the automated transcription makes sense and is formatted correctly.

Legal transcript proofreading: Checking for accuracy of court reporter transcripts. This type of proofreading is unique in that there’s no grammar or style correction. Proofreaders are checking for accuracy between the audio and transcript and correcting punctuation. This is one of the more lucrative and consistent forms of proofreading.

Related: 11 Ways to Get Paid to Read Books In Your Spare Time

4. Set Your Proofreading Rates

Beginning freelance proofreaders charge anywhere from $10 to $35 per hour based on the document length, turnaround time, and skill set needed to complete the work. The more specific your expertise, the more you can charge.

Johnson said she made $15 an hour starting out proofreading and technical editing at an engineering company nine years ago.

“A starting rate for proofreading in 2019 would be more like $25 per hour,” she said.

When you’re starting out, don’t be disappointed by all the lower-paying proofreading jobs. Take what you can get and make it a point to continue learning and niching down as you gain experience.

5. Look for Online Proofreading Jobs for Beginners

Decide whether you want to start your own business and find clients on your own or take a job. You can find proofreading jobs from sites like Indeed and ZipRecruiter .

Fiverr, Upwork, and LinkedIn are great places to post your resume when you don’t know where to start. Facebook groups for writers and people in media can be good too, but you should avoid being spammy and only offer advice or services when asked. You can also post your services in the English building or library on college campuses.

If you know the niche you want to work in, join industry-specific groups and reach out to people who might be in charge of finding proofreaders.

Related: How to Become a Freelance Writer (A Guide by One that Makes $200,000+/Yr)

Proofreading Resources

To be a successful proofreader, you have to be proficient with grammar, spelling, punctuation, and more. But there are tools and resources that can help you complete work faster and with more accuracy.

Grammarly is a free app for Google Chrome and macOS that detects grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors and allows you to fix them with one click. It also detects wordiness and offers alternative phrasing.

The premium version of Grammarly goes further by detecting overused words, unclear sentence structure, and even plagiarism.

ProWritingAid

ProWritingAid is a premium app with a limited free version that focuses more on context, syntax, and structure. It’s helpful in editing long-form content and can help you become a better writer with in-depth explanations for its recommendations.

Hemingway App

The Hemingway App aims to make your writing clear and concise. You can use it as a free online editor or pay for a downloadable version. It highlights in different colors to show where sentences and words can be made clearer. It even analyzes the text to show the grade level it’s written and how long it takes to read.

AP Stylebook

The Associated Press publishes and updates the AP Stylebook , the primary style reference for news and public relations. You can purchase a physical or digital copy to reference when proofreading or download style-checking tools for Microsoft Word and more.

Chicago Manual of Style

Anyone proofreading books, periodicals, and journals should be well-acquainted with the Chicago Manual of Style . It’s much more in-depth than the AP Stylebook so having a copy to reference will be far easier than trying to memorize the complete 950-page guide.

Dreyer’s English by Benjamin Dreyer

Dreyer’s English is a book on grammar that will teach you lessons from Dreyer’s 20 years in copyediting for Random House and will entertain you to no end. This book is essential reading for anyone who works with the English language.

The Elements of Style by William Strunk Jr.

The Elements of Style is an American English writing style guide focusing on telling good stories with as few words as possible. Time listed it as one of the 100 best and most influential books written in English since 1923.

Related: 29 Best Work From Home Jobs for 2021

Proofreading Online Can Provide a Flexible Income

Proofreading is a reliable job that’s been around since the dawn of print media, and it’s one that will continue to stick around as the demand for content marketing and court reporting increase.

It won’t make you rich, but when you know how to become a proofreader you can create a lucrative side hustle for yourself.

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Make Money Proofreading Text: Top 10 Websites

• by Michelle
• March 3, 2024

Step into the world of online proofreading jobs—a virtual realm where your love for language and attention to detail can translate into a rewarding career. This article serves as a comprehensive guide, spotlighting various websites that provide opportunities for individuals to engage in proofreading tasks from the comfort of their own homes. From grammar enthusiasts to meticulous editors, these platforms offer a simple and accessible path to remote proofreading opportunities.

Websites that Pay you to Proofread

Here are some of the top 10 websites that pay you to proofread and edit text:

Scribbr lists many different jobs that you can do as a side hustle including proofreading. The best part is that you can get exclusive tasks that take into account your location, interests, and working hours.

EditFast is an online platform that lets individuals earn money by proofreading. Though its interface looks spammy, it isn’t. To start working on EditFast, users first have to register and take some editing tests after which they can build their webpage. Once the webpage is approved, clients can directly contact the users and pitch potential projects.

ProofreadingServices

ProofreadingServices is another great website where you can find lots of proofreading jobs. The pay for each job can range from $19 to $46 per hour depending on how urgent the deadline is and how urgent the work is.

Polished Paper

Polished Paper provides many different services such as essay writing, editing, and proofreading. To start working as a proofreader on Polished Paper, you will have to create an account and upload your resume. Then you will have to complete a 35-question test that will evaluate your proofreading skills. The successful candidates will then be invited to an interview.

Cactus Global

Cactus Global is an online platform that is perfect for people looking to earn money by proofreading. The platform has many freelance opportunities available and also has a great reputation in the freelance world. It has retained a position in the top 20 in the Top 100 Companies for Remote Jobs for 5 consecutive years.

WordVice looks for freelancers who have extensive proofreading experience and also academic qualifications, specifically a master’s degree or a Ph.D. Proofreaders are paid based on the word count of the document as well as the deadline which may range from 9 hours to 1 week.

SmartBrief publishes email newsletters for different corporations and businesses. For that, they are constantly looking for copywriters, editors, and proofreaders. They mostly have full-time job openings that come with a range of benefits like paid leave, annual bonuses, free magazine subscriptions, and discounted gym memberships.

Domainite is another great platform for individuals looking to earn money by proofreading. It provides different services like webpage design and marketing to its clients. To apply as a proofreader, simply create an account, submit an application, and edit a sample that will test your proofreading skills.

Enago mostly hires individuals with academic qualifications such as master’s or postdoc to review, edit, and proofread papers that will be submitted for publication in esteemed journals. They also generally require experience working with researchers and academic authors.

Writer Access

If you’re looking to earn money by proofreading, Writer Access is a great platform that has openings for editing jobs. However, they only accept applicants from the US with PayPal accounts. When you apply as an editor, you will be given a rating out of 5 stars that depends on your performance in the initial test as well as your experience and profile.

Proofreading is an easy and convenient job you can do from the comfort of your home. There are plenty of freelancing opportunities available if you want to earn by proofreading. This article is just the tip of the iceberg.

RELATED GUIDES

• 8 Websites to Make Money with Your Proofreading Skills
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21 Websites Offering Legit Freelance Proofreading Jobs

This content may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through these links I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. However, I only recommend products or services that I genuinely like and trust.

Want to become a successful proofreader but struggling to find freelance proofreading jobs? 

Finding clients is one of the most stressful parts of being a freelancer, but it doesn’t have to be. There are lots of online proofreading jobs available; you just have to know where to look. 

I’ve compiled a list of proofreading websites that hire proofreaders and editors to work for them. They find the clients; all you have to worry about is doing the work! 

Of course, working for an agency has pros and cons. You don’t have to do as much marketing, but as a result, you may earn a little less once the company has taken its cut. 

Stick around for the FAQ section at the end of this post, where I share some information about starting your own business. 

Table of Contents

Websites That Provide Freelance Proofreading Jobs

1.  scribendi.

Scribendi  is a Canada-based company that hires editors and proofreaders to edit content for its ESL, academic, professional, and student clients. It has both in-house and freelance positions. 

Suitable for beginners?

No. Scribendi requires that you have at least three years of experience in editing, writing, document production, or language teaching.

Do you need a degree?

Yes, you need to have a university degree in a relevant field. 

Special requirements:

You need to have native level English ability. However, the website states that the company hires proofreaders and editors outside the US and Canada. 

Your computer must have Microsoft Word 2010 or higher. 

2.  Proofed Inc.

Proofed offers proofreading, editing, and formatting services to businesses, students, and academics, and promises to return documents within 24 hours. 

Yes. If you don’t have experience yet, you can take its Knowadays Becoming a Proofreader and Becoming an Editor Courses (formerly Proofreading Academy) first. If you graduate with a score of 80% or higher from both courses, you are guaranteed the chance to work with Proofed.

Sign up for a free trial of the Knowadays Becoming a Proofreader course here!

I wrote a review of the Knowdays (formerly Proofreading Academy) Becoming a Proofreader course here.

Yes. Proofed is looking for meticulous, passionate proofreaders with a PhD, master’s, or undergraduate degree from a top university. However, if you complete its course, it will waive this requirement. 

You must upload a copy of your résumé and cover letter to apply for a role with Proofed. 

3.  ProofreadNOW

ProofreadNOW’s proofreaders and editors have been proofreading business documents since 1999. Its clients include law firms, marketing agencies, universities, healthcare providers, and more. 

ProofreadNOW is not hiring at present, but you can  sign up for its email list to be notified  when it is hiring. 

No. ProofreadNOW requires that you have five years of experience as a proofreader. 

The website doesn’t specify.  

You must pass a series of tedious and difficult tests before being hired.  

4.  Polished Paper

Polished Paper is a proofreading and editing service for students, businesses, and ESL writers. 

Register here to be considered for a position with Polished Paper. 

Possibly. The website doesn’t specify how many years of experience you need. 

You must pass a 35-question editor test before being hired. 

5.  Reedsy

Reedsy connects authors with proofreaders, editors, designers, and marketers who can help them bring their book to life and publish it. 

With Reedsy, you can set your own rates, and it charges a 10% commission. To apply, you must  sign up for a free Reedsy profile , and once you are accepted, you will be added to the marketplace. 

From what I’ve heard it can be quite difficult to get into Reedsy. I believe you need to have some experience already, but the website doesn’t specify. 

The website doesn’t specify. I think experience is more important to them.  

Not aware of any. 

6.  Domainite

Domainite  offers a range of services like marketing, website design, and direct mailing to its business customers. 

Possibly. The website doesn’t specify how much experience you need to have.

You must complete an  editing sample  before being hired. You must also confirm that you are familiar with using track changes in Microsoft Word. 

7.  Gramlee

Gramlee offers copyediting, grammar check, and proofreading services for students and academics.

You need to  fill out Gramlee’s employment form  to be considered for a proofreading or editing position.  

Possibly. The website doesn’t specify how many years of experience the company requires, but the form does ask how much experience you have.

The website doesn’t specify, but the form does ask if you have a degree.   

8.  Wordvice

Wordvice has been editing academic material and admissions essays for ESL clients since 2013. It has service agreements with many universities, academic societies, medical centers, research institutions, and laboratories.

Apply here to become a freelance editor with Wordvice. 

No. You need to have two years’ professional editing experience. It prefers that you have an educational background or have experience in medicine, engineering, or other biomedical and natural science domain.

Yes. You need to have completed or be enrolled in a graduate degree program.  

You must have native fluency in English. You must also have experience with various formatting styles such as APA, AMA, MLA, and Chicago.

9.  CACTUS

CACTUS  specializes in editing scientific and medical documents for academics. It is known for being a good place to work, consistently ranking among the top 20 on the global list of the Top 100 Companies for Telecommute Jobs (Forbes.com) since 2016.

The website states that “prior editing experience would be great.”

Yes. You need to have a PhD/master’s/bachelor’s degree or expertise in one or more specialized subject areas in physical sciences, engineering, materials sciences, healthcare, life sciences, medicine, and surgery. 

In addition to freelance positions where you can work from anywhere in the world, CACTUS also offers some full-time remote positions for people based in India. You may be asked to take an editing test to secure one of these positions. 

10.  Sibia Proofreading

Sibia Proofreading  was founded by Dona, a Harvard graduate. It offers proofreading and editing services for academics including journal articles, dissertations, theses, essays, etc.

The website doesn’t state how many years of experience you need to have; however, it does mention that its editors have experience editing PhDs. 

Yes. Sibia Proofreading carefully selects talented and experienced editing professionals who have graduated from top-tier universities such as Harvard University.

You need to be a native English speaker. 

11.  ProofreadingServices.com

ProofreadingServices.com  has helped thousands of academics, jobseekers, businesspeople, and authors refine their writing. It has part-time and full-time remote positions available.

It offers competitive pay ranging from US$19 to US$46 per hour depending on turnaround time, with the highest pay for the most urgent deadlines.

The website doesn’t specify. 

You need to complete an online application that includes multiple choice questions and a three to four-sentence writing sample.  

12.  ProofreadingPal

ProofreadingPal  uses a two-proofreader model whereby all documents must be proofed by two proofreaders to ensure it provides the highest-quality proofreading service. 

No. You need to have a minimum of five years of professional proofreading and editing experience or be working toward a degree.

Yes. If you do not already have a degree, you need to be currently employed by or enrolled as a graduate or postgraduate student in an accredited United States college or university and have a minimum GPA of 3.5.

You must have experience with several popular writing styles, such as APA, MLA, CMS, AP, and CSE.

13.  Edit24-7

Edit 24-7  specializes in proofreading and light editing for academics, businesses, and writers.

According to the website, Edit 24-7 has an extensive application process. To apply for a position, you need to send a writing sample and either your resume or a description of your relevant experience to [email protected].

14.  EditFast

The   EditFast  platform allows eligible editors and proofreaders to set up a web page where potential clients can reach out to them. Clients can choose which editor they want to work with or have EditFast choose someone.  

EditFast gets 40% of the final project price. 

The website states a requirement for past editing/proofreading experience, but it doesn’t say how many years.  

You need to have a degree from a recognized university. 

You must keep all communications with clients on the EditFast platform. 

15.  Edit911

Edit911  provides book, dissertation, article, and document editing by editors with PhDs.

The website doesn’t specify how many years of experience you need to have, but it does mention that you should have verifiable experience, so I don’t think it is suitable for beginners.  

Yes. You need to have a PhD in English or another writing-intensive discipline. You must also be a published scholar, with demonstrable talent and skills as a writer.

You need to send your résumé and a sample of your writing to Edit911 to be considered for a position.

16.  First Editing

First Editing provides fiction, nonfiction, and academic editing services. 

The website lists  First Editing’s requirements  here.   

It would be advantageous. First Editing is looking for people with a doctorate degree with experience in technical editing, theses, dissertations, research, article submissions, etc.

It also mentions master’s, bachelor’s, specific editing courses, proofreading certification, publishing seminars, etc.

You must be available to work at least 25 hours per week. Living in an international location may be advantageous, especially one that serves a time zone outside of the continental North American market, especially those editors located in the UK, South Africa, New Zealand, Australia, Alaska, or Hawaii.

17.  Cambridge Proofreading LLC

Cambridge Proofreading  was founded in Cambridge, England, and is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois. It matches the clients’ documents with editors who have subject-matter expertise. 

The average pay is US$20 to US$25 per hour, paid twice monthly.

The website states that the company’s preferred candidate will have experience in academic editing or publishing, or as university faculty.

Yes. Cambridge Proofreading boasts that all its editors hold a minimum of a bachelor’s degree, with the majority having master’s or doctoral degrees. 

Expertise in STEM, business, economics, education, and computer science would be advantageous. 

18.  WordsRU

WordsRU   was established in Australia in 2002. It provides a specialist proofreading and editing service to businesses, academics, and writers.

No. You must have at least two years of professional experience as an editor, copyeditor, or proofreader.

Yes. You must hold a master’s degree, PhD, or equivalent professional experience in any academic discipline.

WordsRU is currently in need of qualified editors who are available to work on weekends.

19.  Scribbr

With an office in the Netherlands and a team of over 500 freelancers worldwide,  Scribbr  helps over one million students per month to improve their writing. As a Scribbr proofreader and editor, you would be editing papers, detecting plagiarism, and generating citations. It offers services in ten languages!

On average, Scribbr’s editors edit 1,700 words per hour and earn from €20 to €25 per hour.

No. You must have experience editing academic texts. 

Yes. You must hold at least a bachelor’s degree. 

You must be a native English speaker and be available to work for at least ten hours per week. 

To  become a Scribbr editor , you must pass a rigorous application process including a language quiz and two to five simulation orders. 

20.  Stickler

Stickler  specializes in helping academics get published in a top-tier journal, complete their PhDs, or obtain funding by providing world-class proofreading and copyediting services. 

No. You must have significant experience editing academic texts. 

You must be able to turn work of 14,000 words or less around in two to four working days (more time will be allocated for longer jobs). You must also be familiar with Harvard and APA referencing styles (as a minimum).

21.  Editana

Editana  recruits editors and proofreaders from the world’s top universities to edit academic and nonacademic texts. 

No. You must have relevant proofreading experience to apply.  

The website doesn’t specify, but it does say that they actively recruit from universities, so it’s likely you’ll need to be working toward a degree.  

You will need to fill out an application form, provide a cover letter and résumé, and take an editorial test to be considered for a position. You must also be a native-English speaker. 

FAQs about Freelance Proofreading Jobs

Whew, that was a lot of information to get at one time! You probably have a lot of questions now like

• How do I become a freelance proofreader without a degree or experience?
• Can I start my own business instead of working for proofreading and editing companies?
• How much can I earn per hour as a proofreader?

Keep reading for the answers to those questions. 

How do I become a freelance proofreader without a degree?

You probably noticed that many of the proofreading jobs above require their editors and proofreaders have a degree or even a master’s or PhD! So it is even possible to become a proofreader without a degree?

Yes, you don’t need to have a degree to start your own proofreading business. You can market your business to get your own clients without relying on proofreading companies. 

When you work with proofreading agencies, they keep a percentage of the profits—sometimes even as much as 50%! Getting your own clients means that you get to keep all the money for the project (minus transaction fees). 

Start Your Own Proofreading Business

The first step to starting your own proofreading business is making sure that you have the appropriate skills and resources. 

One course that I have personally taken and can recommend is Proofread Anywhere’s  General Proofreading: Theory and Practice course . It includes lots of worksheets and essays so you can practice your proofreading skills as well as an entire module dedicated to teaching you how to market your business to get clients.

Sign up for a  free Intro to Proofreading workshop  to learn how you can become a proofreader. 

Once you have the appropriate training, you need to gather your resources including a laptop/desktop computer, editing software, and  proofreading books and style guides . 

For more details on starting a proofreading business from home, check out my post about  how to become a proofreader without any experience . 

Can you make money proofreading?

One of the most common questions I get asked about working as a proofreader online is “Can you make money proofreading?” The answer is YES! You won’t become a millionaire by proofreading, but you can make a decent living. 

According to ZipRecruiter, a freelance proofreader in the United States can earn an  average of $51,391 per year  or $22/hour (as at August 11, 2020).

Caitlin Pyle of Proofread Anywhere  earned $43,000 a year as a part-time proofreader!

How much should I charge for proofreading per hour?

How much you can charge for proofreading depends on many factors. If you work for a proofreading agency, it will decide how much you will be paid. However, if you start your own proofreading business, you can set your own rates.

Proofreaders can charge per word, per page, per hour, or per project. It depends on the type of document you’re working on. 

Some editorial associations publish average rates that they have compiled by surveying their members. According to the  Editorial Freelancers Association  (EFA), proofreaders can charge between $0.02 and $0.029 per word or between $36 and $40 per hour for proofreading nonfiction. 

The  Chartered Institute of Editors and Proofreaders  (CIEP) suggests a minimum hourly rate for proofreading of £25.40, and a minimum hourly rate of £29.60 for copyediting.  

I cover how much proofreaders make in more detail in this post.

Final Thoughts about Online Proofreading Jobs

I hope this post gave you lots of ideas on how to find freelance proofreading jobs online. 

Don’t forget to check out this  free proofreading class  to find out how to become a proofreader with no experience!

Not sold on proofreading? There are tons of other options out there!  Check out this list of 33 home-based business ideas!

From proofreading to reviewing, how to get paid to read

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If you’re good at spotting grammar and spelling errors, you can get paid to read. Several sites enlist freelancers to copy edit and proofread everything from business documents to books, resumes to college essays. A few also pay for reviews of fiction and nonfiction books.

Here’s how you can get paid to read, how much you’ll earn and where you can find these jobs.

Get paid to read

Many freelance sites that pay you to read are seeking copy editors and proofreaders. Clients of these companies include independent authors, academics and businesses that need a second look at proposals, letters, brochures and documents sent to investors.

With some sites, you set your own rates and reading specialties. You could, for instance, charge $2 per page to read investing and economics copy but charge just 50 cents per page for fantasy fiction and romance. Or vice versa.

However, other sites determine how you get paid. They set the rates, which are usually based on the type of document, the number of words and the turnaround time. Pay is set per project, not per hour. So, the faster and more efficiently you read, the more you earn per hour. With these sites, the only choice the freelancer gets is whether to accept or reject an assignment.

Here are the best sites to find work, according to SideHusl.com :

PenguinFreelancers

Two factors make PenguinFreelancers our top choice for freelance copy editors and proofreaders. The first is that Penguin Random House publishes great books. Collaborating with bestselling authors, noteworthy celebrities and politicians, you’re sure to find interesting reading.

And you are paid reasonable rates — $31 to $36 per hour, depending on what type of editing you’re doing. There is a copy editing or proofreading test to qualify that will probably include familiarity with the Chicago Manual of Style. The site expects editors to read at least 10 pages per hour. Because the copy is probably in pretty good shape when you get it, that shouldn’t be too difficult. If you’re accepted at PenguinFreelancers, you can pick the literary genres that you prefer to read.

Reedsy helps aspiring authors find ghostwriters, writing coaches and all types of editors. The site encourages seasoned editors to apply with a resume and portfolio. If you pass the site’s screening, you’ll create a profile that explains your experience, specialties and the publications that you have edited.

You determine what type of editing services to provide — developmental editing, copy editing, proofreading, etc. The site will send you appropriate projects to bid on. You decide what to charge based on the length, scope and difficulty of the project. The site takes a commission on each sale.

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Broad-based work platforms are often tough places to find good work, but Fiverr is an exception. The site has evolved from a low-rent job platform to one that allows professionals to charge professional rates for limited-service packages.

Freelancers delineate what they do and what they charge, narrowly defining the scope of the work. One freelance editor, for example, says she’ll correct spelling and grammar on a 500-word document for $25. If the project requires an edit to improve clarity and language, it cost will $50 for the same document. Rewriting and feedback can be had for $75. Of course, if there are more words to edit, that will cost more.

This structure is intended to create cost transparency for both worker and client.

Like many straight proofreading and copy editing sites, Scribendi pays by the job specifications, work count and the time you’re given to edit. (Rush jobs pay more.) The site posts a description of each available job, the pay and the deadline. You can decide whether to accept the work or pass. The faster you edit, the more you earn.

Editors say they earn between $5 and $50 per hour. The most common complaint? Because the site specializes in helping English as a Second Language students, many editors said, editing their assignments can be a time-consuming process. And even a simple edit can take more time when the copy needs more work.

That said, if you’re picky about the jobs you accept and are skilled at editing at a rapid pace, you could earn good money here.

ProofreadingPal

ProofreadingPal enlists graduate students and doctoral candidates to proofread and copy edit everything from business documents to academic research papers. However, the site has a complex pay structure and poor pay for new editors. ProofreadingPal also appears to strong-arm editors into signing up for “guaranteed availability” hours, when editors must accept any assignment that comes in. If there are no assignments during those hours, you don’t get paid. But if you miss your guaranteed availability shift, you are fined.

This arrangement appears to be unfair and a potential violation of U.S. labor laws. ProofreadingPal said its proofreaders are independent contractors who are not subject to minimum wage laws. But U.S. government definitions of employees vs. freelancers pivot on worker control. The lines are murky, but this appears to stack the deck in favor of classifying proofreaders as employees. You can learn more about federal definitions of freelancers and employees by taking this quiz.

SideHusl.com does not recommend this proofreading site.

U.S. Review of Books

If you’re more interested in simply reading for pleasure, you may be able to make a few bucks reviewing books.

U.S. Review of Books is among a handful of sites that will pay you to read and provide brief reviews of independently published books and authors. Unfortunately, the site doesn’t pay much. But it also has reasonable rules about what ought to be in a review — half summary, half commentary — and length. Reviews generally run 250 to 300 words and pay $25. Longer reviews of 500 to 600 words pay more — up to $75.

Another site called OnlineBookClub also promises to pay for reviews. However, reviewers said the site has a litany of ways to deny pay for completed work.

Kristof is the editor of SideHusl.com, an independent website that reviews moneymaking opportunities in the gig economy.

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How to make money proofreading: the ultimate guide.

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We receive compensation from the products and services mentioned in this story, but the opinions are the author's own. Compensation may impact where offers appear. We have not included all available products or offers. Learn more about how we make money and our editorial policies .

You can make money proofreading by offering your services as a full-time employee or a freelancer on platforms such as Upwork or Fiverr. The demand for proofreading services is growing as the continuous rise of digital content increases the amount of written material that needs to be reviewed and corrected.

Proofreading requires an eye for detail, knowledge of grammar and punctuation, and an ability to spot errors in written material. Let’s explore how to establish these skills, how to make money proofreading, and how much you can make.

Proofreading: Is it worth it?

What is proofreading, how to make money proofreading, how much money can i make proofreading, essential tools for proofreaders, proofreading faqs, other side hustles to consider.

Proofreading is checking over a written piece of work for any errors. This includes typos or formatting, punctuation, and grammatical errors. In some cases, the proofreader is the final stop for a written piece before it’s published.

When we talk about a written piece, it can mean anything from an article to an email to a social media post. There’s a lot of variety in writing, meaning a proofreader often works on different tasks.

But the essential task for proofreaders across all written mediums is making sure there aren’t any errors. This often requires some writing experience and an eye for detail. Skills you can learn during school, in a similar job, or through your own studies.

Since you can proofread part time, a proofreading position can make for one of many popular weekend side jobs . You may also choose to proofread full time by getting a day job or freelancing for a number of clients.

Proofreading vs. copyediting

Proofreading and copyediting are similar, but they aren’t exactly the same thing. The primary difference between the two is that proofreading is often the final step in the editing process. And if proofreading isn’t the final step, it’s typically still after the copyediting step.

Here’s an example of how a publishing or marketing company may implement its editing process:

• Structural and developmental editing: Fixing the overall structure and flow.
• Line editing: Fixing the style and tone of a piece.
• Copyediting: Fixing grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
• Proofreading: Fixing any final issues before publication.

Possible callout box: Note that this isn’t a formal structure you need to follow as a writer, copyeditor, or proofreader. Every stage may overlap with other stages.

Proofreading is one way to learn how to make money as a side hustle or potentially as a career. You may start proofreading on a part-time basis, and it turns into a full-time venture. Let’s explore how to get started.

1. Have the right skills

There are several ways to acquire the skills necessary for proofreading. You don’t have to start as a fantastic writer or editor to become a proofreader. But you’ll need to learn some applicable skills to get more proofreading opportunities.

For example, you typically need to know how to make something easily readable, which requires good attention to detail. You should also have a solid grasp of grammar and punctuation and an ability to be objective. You can learn these general proofreading skills at certain jobs, in school, or on your own.

Keep in mind that some in-office and online proofreading jobs may require a bachelor’s degree. But many proofreading positions won’t require a more advanced degree, such as a graduate degree or master’s degree.

2. Acquire additional qualifications

It’s time to move on to actual training if you already have the base skills to be a proofreader. To polish your proofreading skills, you can learn the ins and outs of writing and editing guidelines.

Several guidelines out there are commonly used, including:

• The Associated Press Stylebook (AP style)
• The Modern Language Association (MLA)
• The American Psychological Association (APA)
• The Chicago Manual of Style

In addition to writing and editing guidelines, you can acquire additional qualifications from online proofreading courses that can teach you more about proofreading and enhance your skills.

Many of these courses are free, enabling you to see if this path is worth pursuing without spending money. You can find these educational courses on sites such as:

• LinkedIn Learning

3. Choose your proofreading rate

The average proofreader pay in the U.S. is around $22 to $24 per hour. However, you may want to start at a lower rate if you’re just getting started. As you gain more years of experience and add qualifications to your resume, you can increase your hourly rate.

You can also increase your pay by focusing on a niche. Some proofreading niches include:

• Legal transcripts
• Marketing materials
• Translations
• Print media
• Academic dissertations

These niches can be further broken down into more categories. The idea is that you can find an area where your skills may be in high demand by focusing on specific fields. This can be more fun if it’s an area of personal interest, such as a hobby or passion.

4. Find your first job

Now it’s time to look for work. Where to look for proofreading work depends on the type of work you want.

• Full-time proofreading positions: Most online job sites and boards can help with your search. Check out LinkedIn, Remote.co, FlexJobs, ZipRecruiter, Indeed, Monster, and other websites to explore job listings for proofreading jobs.
• Freelance proofreading jobs: Look for freelance gigs on Upwork, Freelancer, and Fiverr. Online job sites also post freelance tasks that can enable you to proofread anywhere.

Remember that not all companies list their open positions on job boards. That’s why you should also check the career pages of companies you’re interested in to see if they have any relevant positions available.

Some companies may even become interested in hiring you after learning about the services you can offer. That’s why networking can be essential to finding work as a proofreader. Use your networking skills through friends, family, and previous employers and coworkers to discover potential opportunities.

You can also check for online proofreading positions on sites that offer proofreading services, such as Scribendi or Proofreading.org.

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The amount of money you can make proofreading varies widely depending on several factors, such as your proofreading experience, the type of material you're proofreading, and the market you're working in.

Like most jobs, you can expect to make more money as you gain more experience. But realize that certain industries or companies may simply pay higher wages than others. For example, you may make more money at a tech company than at a university.

Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) shows that beginner proofreaders make around $14 an hour or $29,000 a year, on average.

Indeed.com shows an experienced proofreader can make, on average, around $22 per hour.

ZipRecruiter shows a slightly higher pay rate for people who run a freelance proofreading business.

Making $22 to $24 per hour at a full-time rate of 40 hours a week equals about $52,000 per year. Depending on your actual pay rate and how much you work, you can earn $21,000 to $87,000 per year. This range may also be higher or lower, depending on your exact situation.

Proofreading can provide additional income as a dedicated career path or a focused side hustle. For more options, check out our list of the best side hustles .

What would a builder be without their tools? The same thought applies to proofreaders. The following resources can make your work as a proofreader a lot easier.

Google Docs

Google Docs is designed with writers in mind. You can easily add comments and use the editing mode to make changes visible to everyone with access to the document. You can also view past versions of the document to see what changes have already been made or to revert to a previous version.

Grammar can be a strange beast to tame because so much of what we say out loud can be grammatically incorrect. Grammar rules themselves can simply be confusing.

Grammarly is a valuable tool for getting quick suggestions on what you can change to help make the written piece you proofread more readable and correct. However, keep in mind that Grammarly is only a tool, not the universal law of the written language.

That’s important to understand because sometimes you may disagree with what Grammarly suggests. And you can very well be right, especially if a piece has a different style than what Grammarly suggests.

AP Stylebook

Professional writing often follows style guides to enable people to have a consensus on which type of writing is correct. The AP Stylebook is one of these style guides, and it provides rules and guidelines for all kinds of words and phrases, making it a helpful resource for proofreaders using AP Style.

ProWritingAid

ProWritingAid is similar to Grammarly in that it’s an app that offers users suggestions to help improve their writing. A proofreader may find this tool helpful to find areas in different writing pieces that can use some slight adjustments or changes.

Hemingway App

Being clear and concise is a goal many writers aim to achieve with their writing. You can use the Hemingway App to get a readability score for written materials. Proofreaders can also benefit from the Hemingway App, especially if the app wasn’t used in the editing process.

Is proofreading easy?

The ease of proofreading increases as you gain more experience and grow your skillset. Previous knowledge in editing or writing positions also helps. That being said, proofreading can be challenging if you easily get distracted or don’t have a firm grasp of the written language. And like any skill, proofreading typically requires time and effort to master.

Are proofreaders in demand?

The demand for proofreaders is growing, according to 2021 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). BLS data shows 10,500 proofreaders were hired in 2021. However, the projected growth rate between 2021 and 2031 is slower than average at 2%.

How much do beginner proofreaders make?

Beginner proofreaders make, on average, $14 per hour or about $29,000 per year. However, the average pay for proofreaders, in general, falls in a range between $22 and $24 per hour or around $45,000 to $50,000 per year. Remember that per-hour wage and salary depend on the number of hours you work, the company you work for, and the experience you have.

How can I learn proofreading for free?

The internet is often an excellent resource for learning things for free, including proofreading. There are many articles and online courses available that you can access for free to see if proofreading feels like the right type of work for you. Check out our list of the best sites for free online education to get started.

Free 3-class intro teaches you how to launch a bookkeeping business

Join a community of 20M+ lifetime members who have been paid $76 million to date.

Connect with paying families looking for care and service-related work. Available jobs include child care, tutoring, senior care, pet care, and housekeeping.

Don’t worry if proofreading doesn’t seem right for you. There are plenty of ways to make extra money online in your spare time.

Become a virtual assistant

As a virtual assistant (VA), you can remotely provide administrative, technical, or creative assistance to your clients. You can help with tasks such as scheduling appointments, answering emails, making travel arrangements, engaging with social media, researching, and more. You can work independently and communicate with clients via phone, email, messaging, and other online tools.

Becoming a VA is a remote job that can offer flexibility with your work schedule, location, and the type of work you do. The key to being a VA is being organized, having good time management, employing good communication skills, and topping it all with multitasking.

Get more information about how to become a virtual assistant .

Offer services on Thumbtack

Thumbtack is an online service that connects professionals with customers that need their services. Writers, translators, personal trainers, tutors, and many other professionals can list what they offer on the platform, helping them find work or grow their existing business. Professionals can also receive notifications when new job leads become available in their area, so they can quickly respond to potential clients.

Users can search for professionals based on the type of service they need, their location, and the date and time they need the service.

Explore how it works in our Thumbtack review .

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14 Online Proofreading Jobs You Can Do From Home

R.J. Weiss, CFP®

• Updated March 27, 2024

Finding online proofreading jobs that pay well is a challenge even for experienced proofreaders.

Mixed in with the handful of sites and platforms where skilled proofreaders are paid well, you’ll also find dozens of sites that pay close to minimum wage.

We compiled this list of the best online proofreading jobs to help you find the options that are actually worth your time, ranked based on factors like reputation, demand for proofreaders and earning potential.

If you’re interested in learning about getting started in the field, see our in-depth article on how to become a proofreader .

Table of Contents

The Best Online Proofreading Jobs

If you’re looking for freelance proofreading jobs, Fiverr is a great place to start your search. 

Fiverr is a freelance marketplace that allows you to set your own rates, create your own jobs, and build up your expertise. It can be competitive, and the pay can be hit and miss, but it’s a solid way to build up your freelance portfolio .

Because it’s a freelance site, you can make money at your own speed and on your own schedule — which is a huge perk for those wanting to do a side hustle around a full-time job or parenting schedule.

You can learn more about how the platform works in our ultimate guide on how to make money on Fiverr .

Upwork is another gig economy marketplace where you can find freelance proofreading jobs. Unlike Fiverr, it places a larger emphasis on long-term jobs and ongoing contracts.

It can be difficult to get started on the platform because the competition is fierce, but it’s a great next step in your journey once you have some proofreading experience under your belt.

That’s especially true because the pay is often significantly higher than on Fiverr.

Learn how to compete on the platform in our guide on how to get your first job on Upwork .

#3. FlexJobs

FlexJobs is a good option if you’re looking for a steady remote proofreading job rather than a freelance position. It’s an online job board dedicated to remote and work-from-home positions, and every job listed on the site has been manually checked to ensure it’s a legit opportunity.

The big downside to FlexJobs is that it does have a monthly membership fee of about $24 — though we think the vetting done by the site, combined with its extensive filtering and search options, make it worth the cost (at least on a short-term basis while you’re job hunting).

You can also get a 14-day trial for just $2.95, with no obligation to stay subscribed after that.

Learn more about the site and how it works in our in-depth FlexJobs review .

#4. WordsRU

WordsRU offers professional proofreading services to writers of all backgrounds, from novelists to students to businesspeople.

For those with a master’s degree, Ph.D. or equivalent experience (and some prior proofreading experience), WordsRU is a great place to become a full-time professional proofreader. 

By serving such a wide variety of clients, you’ll be able to build a varied portfolio quickly. That said, this isn’t a good site for a beginner proofreader because they’re looking for people with a fairly high level of skill. But if you have the right degree and/or experience, it offers significant earning potential.

#5. Scribbr

Scribbr is a professional editing service that caters exclusively to students. The company offers academic editing of dissertations, helps with APA references, and helps students avoid plagiarism.

Unlike WordsRU, Scribbr uses a large network of freelance editors to serve their clients. Not only this, they provide academic editing in numerous languages, giving you a chance to utilize any additional language expertise you have.

Check their job postings regularly, as their needs constantly change.

Note that this is largely a copyediting service, not strictly a proofreading service. As such, it’s best suited for those with editing skill in addition to proofreading acumen.

#6. Wordvice

Wordvice is a one-stop shop for writers, offering proofreading services for manuscripts, dissertations, business documents and everything in between. Like WordsRU, this can be a great way to build a diverse portfolio that allows you to step into a more niche role elsewhere.

If you’re a native English speaker with a graduate degree and two years of editing experience, Wordvice can be a great place to continue your proofreading path once you have some experience.

As with Scribb, Wordvice’s remote proofreading jobs are best suited for those with copyediting skill.

#7. ProofreadingServices.com

ProofreadingServices.com offers general proofreading services to businesses and individuals alike, as well as resume writing.

The requirements to work at ProofreadingServices.com aren’t as strict as some of the other sites on this list. So, if you’ve gotten a bit of experience on Fiverr or Upwork and you’re ready to take the next step, consider applying at the ProofreadingServices.com site .

#8. Gramlee

Gramlee is a unique proofreading service that promises a 24-hour turnaround time to writers. Gramlee isn’t limited to one type of writing either, promising a polished paper to anyone who submits their work.

If you’re a fast editor and even faster learner who’s comfortable tackling a wide variety of subject matter, apply to proofread for Gramlee .

Kibin, much like Scribbr, only edits academic pieces, focusing primarily on essays.

Unlike many proofreading services available, Kibin promises students they’ll go beyond standard edits and offer useful feedback that helps them create a thoughtful, effective piece.

As of now, Kiblin is looking for editors outside the U.S. and Canada with overnight availability. Check their employment page to learn more.

#10. Proofreading Pal

Proofreading Pal provides editing services for bloggers, those writing academic papers, novelists and beyond.

They allow writers to select an editing turnaround time of anywhere from 30 minutes to seven days, which can make tasks more lax or intense depending on their choice. They also utilize two editors per piece, so you’ll learn to co-edit with another person.

For current students or those employed at a university, or those with a graduate degree and experience in proofreading, Proofreading Pal can provide a steady stream of proofreading work at home.

#11. Scribendi

Scribendi is a well-known and respected name in the proofreading industry, with more than 400 editors.

The company offers a number of editing services, including academic papers, English as a second language editing, manuscript edits and more. This makes it a great spot to either specialize or get a wide variety of experience and see what interests you.

Their editing jobs range from beginner to senior, requiring various backgrounds and experience. Keep an eye on their regularly changing job postings and see if the right one for you shows up.

#12. Braintrust

Braintrust is a freelance marketplace similar to Upwork but with a much more freelancer-friendly business model. While they don’t have as many opportunities as Upwork, the fact that freelancers are able to keep 100% of what they earn makes it a great option for those just starting out.

Another benefit is that because the platform is new yet growing fast — both in terms of companies hiring and freelancers offering their services — it’s easier to establish yourself as a top freelance proofreader on the network.

#13. Scribe Media

Scribe Media is the company behind many best-selling non-fiction books, most famously David Goggins’ Can’t Hurt Me (which has now sold millions of copies).

Formally called Book-In-A-Box, it offers a done-for-you book publishing service that goes from drafting an outline to writing the book and, ultimately, to marketing the book.

They’re currently hiring and have consistent openings for a freelance remote Quality Assurance Editor that pays $35 per hour. No formal experience is required.

See the Scribe Media careers page for more information

#14. Various Online Job Boards

Lastly, check around various job boards. Indeed , Craigslist and many others can have proofreading jobs requiring little to no experience.

Make sure you investigate the company posting on a job board to determine if the job is legit, especially when utilizing Craigslist.

Google the company or individual, see if there are any complaints on them running a scam, and proceed with caution. Not all jobs on job boards will be fraudulent, but it’s something to be mindful of.

Skills Needed for Online Proofreading Jobs

Online proofreading jobs can have varying levels of requirements. An entry-level proofreading job, for example, will require far less experience than a senior proofreading position. Similarly, some of the jobs in the list above are both remote proofreading and editing jobs, which means you’ll need to be able to not only check text for errors, but also make structural changes when necessary. 

That being said, many jobs require the same proofreading skills as a baseline. Here’s what we consider to be the most important skills when you’re applying for a remote proofreading job.

• English proficiency : If you plan on editing for English publications or writers, you’ll need a solid understanding of the language itself. The same applies for any additional languages you want to proofread for.
• Eye for detail : One of your primary tasks as a proofreader is catching typos or grammatical errors and ensuring work is error-free. This requires a high attention to detail. If you’re one to catch mistakes in others’ work, you could possibly be a great proofreader with some practice.
• Familiar with tech : Many online proofreader jobs require that you edit within certain programs, so being comfortable with learning new tech is essential. This is especially true for freelancers, where you’ll switch clients a lot and could find yourself hopping from platform to platform.
• Self-starter : When you’re proofreading, especially in a remote setting, you’re largely left to your own devices. You need to be able to motivate yourself to knock out projects on your own.

If you’re new to proofreading and wondering where to start, Proofread Anywhere is a great resource to learn the basics and then some.

Founded by Caitlin Pyle — who made more than $40,000 a year proofreading part-time — Proofread Anywhere is an excellent resource that can help you learn the ins and outs of proofreading, prep for any proofreading tests you may encounter, and find a great proofreading job.

To learn more, check out her free introductory workshop: Learn the Skills You Need to Start Your Freelance Proofreading Hustle .

Learn How to Become a Proofreader

Proofread Anywhere is the go-to resource for people looking to break into the work-from-home proofreading industry. The free 76-minute workshop explains how to know whether proofreading is a good fit for you, and how to get started if you decide that it is.

Proofreading Jobs FAQ

We recommend Proofread Anywhere from long-time proofreader Caitlin Pyle. Caitlin offers an excellent online course, free intro workshop and e-books that can teach you the basics of proofreading and help you find online proofreading jobs.

To start freelance proofreading, you’ll want to build up your skills and portfolio. First, secure as many jobs as possible on sites like Fiverr — where you can easily build a profile proofreading short articles and essays. With some experience under your belt, apply for higher-paying jobs that require some experience, leveling up as often as you can. For more information, see our guide on how to start freelancing .

According to the BLS, the average full-time salary of a proofreader is $ 41,140 , with the median hourly wage of $19.78 per hour.

While the average is $19.78 per hour, know that some proofreaders make much more, while some make less. To become a top-earning proofreader, it’s best to establish yourself as a leader in a niche. You can also add on skills to your ability to proofread, such as SEO, which will bring more value to your client.

As a beginner proofreader — especially when targeting proofreading jobs online — no specific qualifications are needed. With the right strategy, you can secure remote proofreading jobs on platforms like Upwork and Fiverr without experience. Experience and formal education tends to come into play more when applying to full-time proofreading jobs at larger companies.

Proofreading is one of the most affordable businesses to start. Many companies work within Google Docs, which you can access for free. A Grammarly subscription can also help sharpen your skills but is optional.

The Best Online Proofreading Job Sites: Final Thoughts

Proofreading can be a great way to earn a living from home or even on the move. Whether you’re wanting to proofread full-time or simply do it as a side hustle , there are a number of options that can suit all experience levels.

And it can be a great entryway into the more lucrative field of freelance writing , because it gives you exposure to the overall online content ecosystem.

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Best Online Proofreading Jobs

Minimal financial investment is needed, qualifications aren’t necessarily required, and the work is flexible. Online proofreading is something you can do whenever and wherever you want.

Whether you’re a stay-at-home parent or living the digital nomad lifestyle, working remotely from your computer can be a great option. Online proofreading jobs generally revolve around projects and deadlines rather than set hours, so it’s easy to structure the work around your routine.

As the internet continues to expand, more new content is being created every day. All this content needs to be proofread – there’s never been a better time to become a proofreader. Yet making a start on something new can be daunting. Where can you find a job? Is it competitive? How much money can you make proofreading?

This guide to online proofreading jobs will answer these questions and more.

What Is Proofreading?

Before we get started, let’s define what proofreading is and isn’t.

Proofreading is the final stage of the editing process, which takes place once the first draft has been written and run through by an editor. Proofreaders are the last in line before a piece of work is published.

Proofreading vs. Editing

Proofreaders focus on spelling and grammar mistakes. They don’t suggest large changes such as rephrasing sentences, restructuring, or formatting entire sections – this is the job of copy editors.

When searching for online proofreading jobs, you’ll find there’s a lot of overlap between editors and proofreaders when it comes to job adverts. It’s important to be aware of the differences.

Proofreaders cover a wide variety of content. The usual suspects are the types already alluded to – eBooks and web content – but it doesn’t end there. More under-the-radar documents also need to be proofread: white papers, student theses, user manuals; even menus.

It’s also important to differentiate between being a remote employee and a freelancer. Both involve very similar job tasks, but the structure couldn’t be more difficult. Freelancers are responsible for managing their own freelance business and finding clients, whereas employees work for one company. Both options offer the flexibility of working from home .

Best Proofreading Jobs Online

Here are the top 10 ways to find proofreading jobs online:

• JournalismJobs
• BloggingPro
• MediaBistro

FlexJobs specializes in remote job opportunities; seriously, that’s all they do.

You can find both part-time and full-time jobs that allow you to work from home, or anywhere in the world for that matter.

Price: $9.95 w/ 30-day Money-Back Guarantee

FlexJobs is the largest site for finding remote, work-from-home jobs, both full-time and part-time for your skillset. The trained researchers at FlexJobs hand-screen job listings to eliminate ads and scams found on other sites. Find everything from entry-level to executive positions at FlexJobs.

Another popular option is Fiverr , which has the advantage of letting you get started straight away. This makes it an ideal place to test the waters and see what types of assignments you like doing.

Fiverr started as a website where you could find anyone to do anything for $5, but has quickly evolved to be one of the top platforms in the world for freelancers to find work and people to find freelancers. It’s definitely worth exploring.

It also makes it easy to do a few assignments and use your happy clients as testimonials in other areas of your proofreading business.

Learn more:

• Best Fiverr Gigs

If you don’t feel ready to pitch directly to companies, using third-party websites designed for freelancers could be a good option.

The advantage of using these kinds of sites is that you don’t have to worry about being scammed or chasing payment because the website takes care of this for you. However, it comes at a price – a cut of the profit will be taken.

Upwork is the largest and most popular of these websites, and it provides a huge amount of work. Some love it and others hate it, but it can be a good place to start.

However, it can be complicated to get accepted as Upwork claims to receive over 10,000 applicants a day. You need to ensure that your profile is filled in and you include all relevant information.

• UpWork vs Fiverr: Which is Better?

LinkedIn is a well-respected place to search for high-quality jobs. You can input ‘remote’ into the location option to ensure that you narrow your search down to online proofreading jobs.

It’s also possible to create alerts for jobs that match your search terms and have new jobs sent straight to your inbox daily. Just remember to create multiple alerts including all the key terms.

You’ve probably used Indeed before, but not everybody realizes the number of remote jobs on there.

Competition can be high since Indeed is one of the most well-known job websites in the world and it’s extremely convenient to use – but for the same reasons, you can’t afford to ignore it.

Another great option is Monster.com , which works in almost the same way as Indeed. Regularly applying for relevant jobs posted on this triad – LinkedIn, Indeed, and Monster – will certainly keep you occupied.

Hopefully, success will come your way eventually.

Online Proofreading Job Boards

The final option you can pursue is to check online job boards and websites that are specifically made for freelance proofreading jobs.

Some big online job boards which often have jobs relevant for proofreading are these:

• JournalismJobs – best for ‘media jobs’ including proofreading
• ProBlogger – mostly for writing jobs but sometimes proofreading
• BloggingPro – aimed at writers but includes proofreading too
• MediaBistro – various media jobs including proofreading

11 Proofreading Jobs That Require A Degree

There are also various websites that are specifically geared toward experienced proofreaders. These sites are looking for highly qualified academic proofreaders.

For those professional jobseekers, here are the 11 best proofreading jobs that require a degree :

• CACTUS Global – needs proofreaders to have a PhD/Master’s/Bachelor’s degree or expertise in a specialized subject.
• Edit 911 – hires proofreaders with an English PhD who can use InDesign or Publisher.
• Edit Fast – requires a degree from a recognized university.
• Enago – hires proofreaders with a Master’s degree/PhD/postdoctoral research experience.
• English Trackers – hires proofreaders with a PhD.
• ProofreadingPal – hires proofreaders enrolled in college with a minimum 3.5 GPA or experienced graduates.
• Scribbr – hires proofreaders with a Bachelor’s degree.
• Scribendi – hires editors with a university degree.
• WordFirm Inc’s ManagedEditing prefers five years’ experience and a degree.
• Words R U – hires proofreaders with a PhD or Master’s and preferably with ESL experience.
• Wordvice – requires a graduate degree.

19 Proofreading Jobs for Beginners

If you are just getting started as a proofreader, here are the top 19 online proofreading jobs that don’t require a degree :

• American Journal Experts – hires editors with proven expertise.
• Babbletype – hires skilled proofreaders and editors.
• Domainite – the rates are low but could be a good place to start.
• Book Editing Associates – five years of experience is required.
• Editor Live – hires proofreaders for academic and business papers.
• Gramlee – must submit an application to get approved.
• Kibin – allows you to sign up for proofreader job alerts.
• Kirkus Media – sometimes hires editors.
• Lifetips – offer remote employee positions with benefits.
• OneSpace – hire for both writing and editing jobs.
• Polished Paper – hires those who can pass a 35-question test.
• Prompt – hires freelancers to read college admission essays.
• Proofreadingservices.com – hires those who can pass a 20-minute proofreading test.
• R3ciprocity –based on a credits system where contributors proof each other’s work and use the credits to get their own work proofed. You can also turn the credits into cash.
• Reedsy – a freelance marketplace that allows you to work with authors and writers.
• Scribe Media – hire freelance “scribes.” The role involves writing as well as editing.
• Scribe Writing (previously Book in a Box) – proofread a book project which lasts for a series of months.
• Smartbrief – sometimes looks for proofreaders and editors but the pay is low.
• Writer’s Relief – hires proofreaders to read the work of creative writers to get published. Only accept 2% of those who apply to get accepted.

Connect With Proofreaders in Facebook Groups

Facebook groups are another great way to find jobs. Many companies aren’t willing to spend their budget on giving commission to third-party websites and prefer to directly source proofreaders. However, it’s worth exercising a healthy dose of caution when it comes to Facebook job pages; they can sometimes be a hotspot for scammers.

One thing you may find is that proofreading jobs get posted on groups that aren’t necessarily specific to proofreading. Therefore, it’s worth getting creative with which groups you join. You should be able to find relevant jobs by searching for all the key terms related to proofreading and also terms such as ‘freelance writing’, ‘flexible jobs’, and ‘remote work’.

Clearly, there are many social media platforms you can use to source online proofreading jobs. You may want to try out various different methods and figure out which ones work out best for you. It’s important to remember that you may find your search difficult at first but things will get easier as you build up experience and get referred by past clients.

How To Become A Proofreader

It goes without saying that proofreaders need to have excellent spelling and grammar skills.

However, even if your command of the English language is perfect and your attention to detail is second-to-none, this is unlikely to guarantee you a top-paying gig unless you can back your skills up with experience or qualifications.

Do I Need A Degree To Become A Proofreader?

Having a degree in English or Journalism isn’t essential, but it’s undoubtedly an advantage. This is especially true for anybody hoping to go down the route of being a remote employee rather than a freelancer – companies will expect a more traditional candidate.

If you don’t have a degree in a relevant discipline – or no degree at all – then there’s no need to panic. Freelancing jobs tend to rely more heavily on experience and testimonials than on conventional qualifications.

Is Proofreading Difficult?

You may be worried that, since online proofreading jobs being such an attractive option for many people, the market would be oversaturated and demand would struggle to meet supply. Luckily, this doesn’t seem to be the case.

The truth is that not everybody has the skills necessary to be a good proofreader. It’s a difficult and highly technical job, which is why so many companies demand candidates who have a bachelor’s degree – or even a PhD – in English.

Due to online proofreading being such a flexible role, many people drift in and out of the profession, meaning that companies are always seeking new people.

You may also be worried about the threat of automation, especially as the use of tools such as Grammarly is growing. However, anybody who uses these tools on a regular basis knows that they’re an imperfect replacement for real human beings.

Robots may do a good job of learning grammar rules and spellings, but they’re yet to be able to understand context and tone.

Take An Online Proofreading Course for Professional Certification

If you want to brush up on your skills or stand out from your competitors, one option is to take an online course. This is a lot cheaper and quicker than completing an entire undergraduate degree.

The Proofread Anywhere course is excellent for those who want to get serious about proofreading, and you can take part in a free workshop before you decide whether to complete the whole course.

Proofread Anywhere is hands down the best proofreading course anywhere online. Hundreds of Millennial Money readers have taken this course and are now making money proofreading.

Proofread Anywhere - The #1 Online Proofreading Course

Most courses focus on the mechanics of proofreading, but Proofread Anywhere trains you on both how to proofread AND how to market your services. The course has helped 15,000+ students with their proofreading career!

Test Your Proofreading Skills

You may be asked to do an editing test before you’re given a job, especially if you’re applying for a remote employee role, so it’s important to make sure you’re up to a good standard. Not sure whether your skills are good enough?

There are various free tests you can try, such as the Ultimate Editing Test from ProEdit or the proofreading test on Web Done Right. The Society for Editors and Proofreaders in the UK also has a test – but beware of the differences between American English and British English.

How Much Do Online Proofreaders Make Per Hour?

Online proofreading jobs aren’t usually paid by the hour. Remote employees will be paid a yearly salary, but freelance proofreaders are more likely to be paid by the project, pages, or even words.

Having said that, according to Salary.com , the average salary is $54,956. The true figure depends on a lot of factors. Payscale.com allows you to input your city and years of experience to find out a more accurate figure.

How To Choose Your Rate As A Freelance Proofreader

Of course, if you want to work as a freelance proofreader, then you’ll be free to choose your own rate. Most freelance proofreaders start off with a relatively low hourly wage and then increase their rate gradually over time as they hone their craft and build up their portfolio.

A quick search on Upwork reveals that there are currently over 200 freelance proofreaders who are charging an hourly rate of $60 an hour or more. Some charge up to $100 or even slightly more.

It’s tempting to charge a low rate under the guise that this will guarantee more work, but this isn’t the case. Most freelancers charging high rates have no trouble finding work because they have the experience and skills to back up the prices they ask for.

Best Proofreading Industries

It’s also notable that some industries are more well-paid than others. You may want to bear this in mind if you’re planning on approaching companies you’d like to work with directly. According to Data USA , the best- and worst-paying industries are as follows.

Best-paying:

• Printing & related support activities
• Legal services
• Advertising, public relations & related services

Worst-paying:

• Business support services
• Newspaper publishers
• Colleges, universities & professional schools

Tools & Online Resources For Proofreaders

In terms of equipment, online proofreading jobs have lower startup costs than many other potential businesses. Of course, you’ll need some kind of device to work from, but it doesn’t necessarily have to be a computer or laptop – a tablet is usually sufficient.

Likewise, although you’ll need an internet connection, ultra-fast internet isn’t strictly necessary since you’ll be working from text files. If your Wifi isn’t always reliable, this will come as a huge relief.

Understanding Citation Systems

It’s also extremely useful to have an understanding of the major citation systems, such as APA, MLA, and CMOS. There are plenty of resources available online that you can use to familiarize yourself with these styles, and it’s also possible to buy an official handbook directly from the websites.

Best Grammar Tools

Grammar tools such as Grammarly and Hemingway app are also incredibly helpful. This software isn’t a replacement for human proofreaders, but they do add an extra layer of security against simple errors and typos.

Grammarly offers a free version to help you avoid basic grammatical errors and a premium version that covers more sophisticated errors.

Hemingway app has no free version, but many writers swear by it. Grammar-checking apps aren’t strictly necessary when you first start on your freelancing journey, but they’re a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to grow their business further.

Best Proofreading Software

Most of the time, if you’re freelancing then simple software like Microsoft Word and Google Docs will be used. It may sound basic, but it’s a great way for clients to collaborate and see what you’re doing.

However, it may also be helpful to know how to use professional publishing software – especially if you plan on becoming a remote employee rather than a freelancer. Here are some you may come across, depending on your industry:

• Adobe Acrobat Vs 8 (Professional) for editing PDFs
• Adobe InDesign
• Adobe Framemaker
• DITA and Arbortext Editor
• ​QuarkXPress
• ​Final Draft
• ​iAnnnotate
• Movie Magic Screenwriter

Proofreading Business Requirements

If you want to be a freelancer, there are some additional considerations you wouldn’t need to think about if you were pursuing a more traditional job route.

You may want to purchase General Liability Insurance, preparing an invoice template, or using accounting software such as QuickBooks . Doing this will protect you against any issues that could arise and ensure that you stay on top of your clients.

This isn’t something you need to worry about when you’re first testing the waters, but it’s something you need to consider for later down the line. Remember, when you freelance, you’re essentially starting and operating your own business.

Work Samples and Testimonials

It’s also incredibly helpful to have a sample to show to clients. You can create a Google Doc of a document you proofread and clearly show the errors you picked up by highlighting them.

If you don’t have a past client then don’t worry – you can just create one using a piece of work you wrote yourself.

In addition to a sample, testimonials from previous clients go a long way in proving that you know what you’re doing. It’s possible to get started without any experience, but if you have any past clients you can call upon to recommend you, asking them is a must.

You’ll also need to have the time management skills necessary to meet deadlines, as this is a vital part of the job. When you’re working from home, there’s no boss present to motivate you.

Are Proofreaders in Demand?

We’re living in a world of content, and the content level we’re currently experiencing probably is yet to reach its peak. As independent authors and the self-publishing industry boom, many writers are looking for freelance proofreaders they can work with.

There is also more web content than ever before as more blogs are created and more businesses go digital. Now is a great time to be a proofreader.

According to Data USA , around 9,800 people in the US workforce were employed as proofreaders in 2020 – roughly the same as 2019.

The average national salary for proofreaders according to DataUSA is around $38,500 per year.

On Indeed, there are 375 ‘proofreader’ jobs posted currently. This may be less than other professions, but it’s still a considerable number.

On Upwork, there are over 3,000 jobs posted most days, which reflects that there’s a greater demand for freelancers than remote employees.

Get Started As A Freelance Proofreader From Home

Proofreading could be a feasible option for you if you have a good understanding of the English language skills and are well-suited to working from home.

If you’re a published author with a doctorate in English, building a career as a proofreader will be straightforward. However, even if you have no degree and no experience, there are plenty of online proofreading jobs available.

To take a direct approach, collect the email addresses of companies you think you could help and pitch your services to them. This should be a short yet persuasive email that consists of an outline of what you can offer and a call to action.

If you find grammar and spelling mistakes on the content of an individual or company, you could even proofread a small section and use this as your sample to send them.

However, only do this sparingly; it’s a risky strategy to spend a lot of time working for free with no guarantee of more paid work.

It might also be helpful to join a professional society, such as EFA (USA only) or ACES (international). This can be a great way to start networking and may help you to land work.

You might not be able to make $100 an hour from the get-go, but if you continuously build up your testimonials and portfolio, there’s no reason you can’t get there eventually.

There’s certainly no end of places to look for jobs, and demand seems set to increase over the next few years. With the potential payoff being so high and the startup costs being so low, why not give it a go?

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17 Best Proofreading Jobs + How to Make Up to $50+/Hour

• Updated: 04/04/24
• Comments: 2

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Proofreading is one of the most important steps in the writing process, yet it is often overlooked by a lot of content creators and bloggers.

A good proofreader can genuinely make all the difference in the quality of a piece of content and take your writing to the next level.

Being such an important part of the writing process, proofreading has become its own entity in the freelance world.

Everyone has heard of freelance writing… but there are a few too many freelancers who don’t realize you can rake in some serious cash with a proofreading business.

Because it’s not just about checking for grammatical errors, misspellings, and punctuation…

A good proofreader can not only check for errors but also check for clarity, conciseness, and the overall flow of your content.

Lucky for you, if you’re interested in being a professional proofreader, there are a number of ways to make money as a freelance proofreader working from home. Many companies and individuals outsource their proofreading needs to freelancers, opening up ample opportunities for those industrious enough to seek them out.

Proofreading jobs can be anything from one-time gigs to recurring jobs — it all just depends on what you’re looking for.

Are you looking for steady cash flows? Maybe a few extra dollars here and there to invest in growing your blogging business or some other venture?

Maybe you want to maximize your income and do a little of both… We get it. There is plenty of money to be made in freelancing , proofreading, and writing in general.

Whether you are working a full-time job and looking to supplement your income or you intend to start your own personal business, we are here to show you how to get started, what to expect, and give you some friendly tips along the way.

In this article, we’re going to tell you everything you need to know about getting proofreading jobs, including some great resources to find them!

17 Best Companies to Find Proofreading Jobs

Below are the top job sites to find the best proofreading jobs.

Fiverr is a freelance marketplace that connects buyers and sellers of creative services.

Sellers offer a variety of services, including proofreading, logo design, and website development.

Buyers can browse the Fiverr marketplace for creative services, or post a request for a specific service. Fiverr is a great option for freelancers who are looking for proofreading jobs or any other type of freelancing work. The platform is simple to use and there are a variety of services available.

If you are looking for an easy-to-use, intuitive system for freelancing, especially as a beginner, Upwork could be for you.

Similar to Fiverr, Upwork provides simple navigation tools that make it easy for anyone to post their request or offer an existing service in exchange for compensation.

The site might be simple but it has plenty going on under its sleek exterior – you’ll never run out of options here whether you’re starting your first project as a freelancer or you’re a seasoned pro.

3. Linkedln

LinkedIn is a professional networking site that allows users to connect with other professionals in their field.

Users can search for jobs, connect with other professionals, and post their resumes on the site.

LinkedIn also offers a number of features for businesses, including advertising and job postings. While this isn’t a site where you can work directly, the connections you make here can be invaluable and your earning potential is capped only by your own skill and what you can negotiate.

4. Flexjobs

FlexJobs is a great site for finding work from home. In addition to editing and proofreading jobs, they also have other sections with remote positions like marketing or customer service as well!

Check out this resource if you’re looking into making some extra money on the side while helping companies meet their goals by using your professional skills in new ways.

Unlike some of the other platforms mentioned in this list, there is a membership fee but at a mere 15 dollars a month, your earnings should far exceed what you’re spending.

5. Lionbridge

Lionbridge is a perfect example of one of the points mentioned earlier: Flexibility.

If you’re looking for an exotic job that will take your creativity and fluency in different languages to the next level, then Lionbridge is just what you need.

With work-from-home jobs available on their platform at any time of day or night (and even on weekends!), there are plenty of opportunities waiting right around every corner!

Not only does this company offer positions across many countries around the world but it also includes ones specifically tailored toward travelers who want a virtual assistant to help them with all sorts of tasks while traveling abroad. 

6. Freelancer

Freelancer is another full-freelance marketplace. Basically, any skill you have here can be converted into extra income.

This encompasses proofreading jobs as well, of course.

Fill out your profile and you are ready to start bidding for jobs. This platform has a very intuitive UI and is easy to use and benefit from.

7. Scribendi

If you have a college degree, Scribendi is a viable option for you.

Keep in mind that you should be able to output 1000 to 1500 words an hour and have roughly 3 years of experience before applying at Scribendi.

With Scribendi, you can make your own schedule and have extremely flexible hours.

Not only that, but the pay on this platform is pretty great. You will be paid once a month via Payoneer, and Editors have reported being paid up to $50 dollars an hour.

Gramlee is a proofreading and copy-editing company.

Proofreaders are hired on a project-by-project basis, and the company offers a variety of services, including copy editing, line editing, and manuscript editing.

Proofreaders are responsible for reviewing documents for grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors. Proofreaders must be able to identify and correct errors in a timely manner.

Gramlee is a great option for freelancers who are looking to get started in the proofreading industry. The platform is simple to use and there are a variety of services available.

9. ProofreadingPal

ProofreadingPal is another high-earning site to look into if you have a bit of experience.

With Proofreading Pal, you can expect to make anywhere between $500 and $3000 dollars monthly.

The strict, two-person proofreading model is designed to ensure the highest level of accuracy. In order to proofread with ProofreadingPal, you will need to complete a contractor questionnaire, and there is a 5-10 day waiting period.

10. Scribe Writing

Scribe Writing is another company that can help you get started in the proofreading industry.

The platform is simple to use and there are a variety of services available. Proofreaders for this company are responsible for reviewing documents for grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors.

You must be able to identify and correct errors in a timely manner in order to be successful on this platform.

11. Polished Paper

Polished Paper is for those of you that have a significant amount of experience proofreading and are much more confident in their skills.

Consider this the luxury edition of other writing platforms.

This isn’t an all-around freelancing site, this site is honed into everything writing and it shows in the quality of the work they produce and the quality of those they allow to write or proofread for them.

In order to be a proofreader for polished paper, you will need to be able to pass a 35-question test that will assess your skill level.

In return, the rate of pay is higher than with other platforms on this list. This is a great choice for journeyman writers and proofreaders.

12. American Journal Experts

American Journal Experts is a company that offers proofreading and editing services to businesses and individuals.

Proofreading services are available for both academic and business documents, while editing services are available for all types of documents.

Proofreading and editing rates vary depending on the type of document, length, turnaround time, and level of service required.

As an added bonus, If you have an Indeed account (which I would recommend if you plan on entering the freelancing world), American Journal Experts allows you to auto-fill your application using your indeed account.

Guru is yet another freelancing platform that includes proofreading jobs and many others.

It was actually created as an online marketplace where people could buy/sell services related products like language translation and editing; however, over time they’ve expanded into more diverse fields such as graphic design, copywriting, and even social media consultations.

14. Writing Jobz

While the name may spark your innate desire to correct it, it is not a typo.

Writing Jobz is an online marketplace for proofreaders who specialize in different types of editing jobs. You can take on tasks related to academic papers, blog posts, and news articles or books that need extra attention before they’re published.

If you are good enough at proofreading any of these types of assignments — there’s money waiting! As long as the content hasn’t already been scanned by another user first (there are plenty of postings so make sure not to get discouraged!), then you can earn upwards of $11 per page you edit.

Writing Jobz excels partially because it focuses solely on editing, this is not an all-around freelancing site like some of the other sites on this list.

15. Edit 911

Edit 911 is another platform that has a reputation for being a top performer in the field. This platform is for journeymen and above-level writers and proofreaders.

To proofread or edit for Edit 911, you will need to have at the very least an extensive and verifiable history of A-plus professional proofreading. They are very selective, but a very good platform to work for.

16. MediaBistro

MediaBistro is a one-stop-shop for anyone involved in the media.

From design and writing/editing jobs to marketing opportunities, there are plenty of ways you can make money from your proofreading skills.

MediaBistro is great because they give members the opportunity to not only submit their resume to be considered for jobs but also the option to sign up for job alerts so that if any new proofreading jobs come available, they will receive an email notification straight away.

This can save you time AND allow you to get more interviews than ever before (and who doesn’t like those?).

17. Clickworker

Clickworker has an interesting and innovative form of freelancing. Working for Clickworker, you will be expected to complete micro-tasks for their clients.

After signing up for Clickworker, you can log in as an individual contractor.

Once done, you will be able to look at the available jobs, which are generally broken into smaller projects that take less time than a lot of other proofreading jobs around the net.

This is great for a beginner proofreader as you are not likely to encounter anything too daunting.

To become one of these professional Clickworkers, you must first put in tenure as an author on the site and gain experience by completing some text creation jobs. After passing the assessment test you can gain access to a greater range of jobs, including proofreading.

What to Keep in Mind When Applying for Proofreading Jobs

Not everyone is cut out for proofreading. Make sure to keep these things in mind when you’re considering a proofreading job and before you apply.

Take Advantage of the Opportunities Around You

In the freelance game, you want to be as attractive as possible when applying. You want companies to be drawn to you over other applicants. In order to do this, you want to make sure you are taking advantage of any leg-up you can get.

With proofreading jobs, it is important to make sure that you put your best foot forward. This means being professional with all correspondence, being prompt, and having a well-organized portfolio.

It is also important to be personable and make connections with other professionals in your field. The more people you know, the more likely you are to find work.

You can join online communities and groups related to proofreading and freelancing. These groups are often great for finding work, networking, and getting advice from others in the industry.

There are many different ways to make money as a proofreader. The important thing is to find the right fit for you.

Whether that means working for a company, starting your own business, or freelancing, there is an option out there for everyone.

Here are a few things to keep in mind as you venture out into the world of professional proofreading.

Proofreading Requires a Keen Eye

Proofreading is an essential step in the writing process, and it is important to have a keen eye for detail if you want to be successful at your proofreading work.

Proofreaders are responsible for checking for errors in grammar, spelling, and punctuation as well as making sure content is clear and getting across the point the writer hoped it would.

In order to be a successful proofreader, you need to be able to quickly and accurately identify these errors.

Proofreading jobs are not limited to a specific type of content, meaning you need to be able to seamlessly switch between proofreading blog posts to scripts for YouTube channels and even Instagram captions if you want to be truly successful. Proofreaders can work on anything from websites and blog posts to books and articles.

Because there is a wide range of content that proofreaders can work on, it is important to be familiar with different types of writing styles and the format each platform uses before you start looking for jobs.

Proofreading Jobs Can Be Done Online or Offline

Online proofreading jobs are becoming more and more popular, as they offer the flexibility that many people are looking for.

And let’s be honest… SO much writing in today’s world is all online. Do kids even use notebooks in class anymore?

Even proofreading jobs that have been traditionally “in-person” can be taken online with scanners and other technology. That being said, it’s possible that in-person proofreading jobs may require you to travel to the client’s location, so be aware of this upfront.

Proofreading Rates Vary

Now to answer the question that you REALLY came here for… How much money is there to be made with proofreading jobs?

Honestly, it can vary quite a bit — depending on the project, deadline, and client.

Rates for proofreading can range anywhere from $15-$45 per hour, depending on the project, the deadline, and the client. For example, a blog post may only take an hour or two to proofread, while a short book could take 10 hours or more.

A lot of the factors come down to your ratings, your education, and your experience. The more experience and skills you have, the higher your rates will be.

Regardless of your starting rate, proofreading can be a great way to make extra money, supplement your income, or even start your own online business .

But, it is important to know what you are worth as a proofreader before you start taking any and every job out there.

As a proofreader, you will be playing an important role in the writing process, and it is important to not undersell yourself. That being said, if you are an amateur just starting out, asking for top dollar may not yield the best results.

You may want to start with a lower rate to build up your portfolio and get some experience under your belt before raising your rates.

Proofreading is Time-Consuming But Flexible

Proofreading can be a time-consuming task. You have to actually read the content thoroughly, after all.

No skimming here. That’s how you miss errors.

So, it is important to be as efficient as possible when you’re proofreading. This means knowing how to spot errors quickly and accurately.

Proofreaders who are able to proofread quickly and efficiently are often in high demand, as you can imagine. They’re dependable and can handle larger volumes of work.

Naturally, this also translates into more money in your pocket when you can finish proofreading jobs faster.

And while it does take time, you can generally do it on your OWN time.

Proofreading is a great way to make money from home, as it can be done anywhere, at any time. All you really need is a computer and an internet connection.

This makes proofreading jobs ideal for stay-at-home parents, students, and anyone else who is looking for flexible, online work.

Proofreading jobs can be found on a number of different websites, including freelancer websites like Upwork , job boards, and company websites.

Don’t worry, later we’ll go into more detail about how to actually start making money proofreading.

Strong English Language Skills Are Necessary

This one might sound obvious but it’s worth noting because some people do try to get into this kind of work with English as a second or third language.

That’s absolutely great! But just make sure that you have a strong understanding of the English language. People expect a professional level of work here and you will be able to earn more if you have an extensive background in this area.

Of course, you need to learn the basic rules of grammar and punctuation, if you don’t know them already. Once you have a solid foundation in those, you’ll want to start to focus on more specific details such as typos and spelling mistakes.

After doing that, I highly recommend you start practicing clarity and flow.

This just means making sure the piece that you’re reading makes sense and is easy to follow. If it doesn’t, it’s your job to make the necessary changes to make it so.

You can find a ton of free resources online to help you improve your understanding and knowledge of the English language. Resources like YouTube , Khan Academy , and Skillshare are great places to start.

With a little bit of practice, you’ll be able to proofread like a pro!

You Need a Dedicated Space

This part cannot be overstated if you want to be successful working from home.

Proofreading can be done from home, but it is important to have a quiet, uninterrupted workspace.

For many people, the dream of working from home is just that: a dream. But for those that are working from home, the reality isn’t always what you think. While there are certainly plenty of advantages to working from home – no commute, no office politics, no need to dress up for work – there are also a few challenges.

As many of you know thanks to the Covid pandemic, this is often easier said than done.

After all, there’s only so much you can accomplish with a toddler crawling around at your feet or a dog barking in your ear. But with a little creativity and some planning, it is possible to create a conducive environment for productive work.

For starters, consider setting up a dedicated workspace in a spare room or garage. If that’s not possible, try to find a quiet corner of your house where you can limit distractions and outside noise.

And finally, don’t be afraid to set boundaries with family and friends . Let them know that even though you’re at home, you’re still working and should not be disturbed.

With a little effort, you can easily create an effective proofreading setup that will allow you to work from home without interruption.

Proofreading Jobs Availability

There are a number of proofreading jobs available online, but you will have to do some research to find the right opportunity for you.

There are a number of things to consider when choosing a proofreading job, including the type of work, the pay, and the hours.

Once you’ve found the perfect opportunity, all you need to do is put in the hard work and dedication to succeed. If you have already prepared yourself by following the steps above, then you should be well on your way to a new career as a proofreader.

Now that we have established a baseline of what to expect when jumping into the world of freelance proofreading, what it will take to be one, and some of the pros and cons of engaging in freelance proofreading, we can now talk about where to begin your freelance journey.

Start your own business!

You’ve got all the skills, why work for someone else?

Once you start your own freelance proofreading business, you can start to see some real money.

There are many things to keep in mind when starting your own business. For example, just because you are going to be your own entity doesn’t mean that other platforms on this list can’t help you. They can help grow your client base, help you meet invaluable contacts, and give you much-needed practice and experience.

While starting your own business is certainly an endeavor that can lead to financial freedom, it won’t be all sunshine all the time.

You will have to find your own clients and manage your time wisely. Taking on more than you can reasonably handle can end up hurting you more than helping you professionally. 

So keep those things in mind if you start your own proofreading business.

Final Thoughts

Proofreading jobs can be a great way to make extra money from home.

It is a very flexible job, and you can work as much or as little as you want. Proofreading can also be done on your own time, which is great for people with other commitments.

You will need some experience in order to find proofreading jobs, but there are many platforms that are willing to give you a chance. Keep in mind that the pay varies depending on the platform, so do your research before choosing one.

With all of this information and the skills you undoubtedly possess, it is time for you to jump into the world of freelance proofreading.

Whether you are just looking to supplement your income or start your own business from the ground up and achieve financial freedom, proofreading can get you there with enough determination and practice.

If you liked this article on proofreading jobs or have any questions, please leave them in the comment section below!

35 Best Online Proofreading Jobs for Beginners (Make $50+/Hr!)

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Last Updated on November 12, 2022 by Rebecca Lake

Looking for a flexible way to earn a part-time or full-time income from home?

Online proofreading jobs can be a great way to make money on a daily basis. It’s possible to launch a part- or full-time career as a proofreader without previous experience.

There are numerous companies that offer remote job opportunities for entry-level proofreaders and experienced proofreaders. Some online proofreading jobs are offered on a part-time basis, while others are full-time.

Today, we’re sharing tips on how to become a professional proofreader, along with some of the best legitimate proofreading jobs.

Related post: 28 Low-Stress Side Hustles for Introverts That Pay Well

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What Is Proofreading and What Do Proofreaders Do?

Proofreading is the process of reviewing written documents and checking them for spelling mistakes, typos and grammatical errors.

A proofreader’s job, in a nutshell, is making sure a piece of writing is error-free. It’s a little different from editing, which involves reviewing text for tone, correct sentence structure, flow and overall style.

Online proofreading jobs can involve reviewing a wide range of writing, including:

• Infographics
• White papers
• Case studies
• Academic papers
• Social media posts
• Technical reports
• Legal documents
• Medical documents

Proofreaders can work as generalists, proofreading a wide range of online content. Or they may specialize in a single type of writing, like legal or medical documents.

Are proofreaders in demand?

Proofreaders are in high demand across a wide variety of industries, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics . Some of the industries hiring online proofreaders include:

• Newspaper, periodical and book publishers
• Business support services
• Scientific and technical services
• Employment services
• Advertising and public relations services
• Content creators, including bloggers and influencers

The freelance marketplace for online proofreading jobs has plenty of potential to grow as more businesses harness the power of online marketing. The great thing about starting a proofreading career is that prior experience is not necessarily a prerequisite.

What are the basic requirements to become an online proofreader?

As mentioned, you don’t need previous experience to be a good proofreader if you’ve mastered the right skills.

Those skills include:

• Thorough understanding of grammar
• Solid spelling skills
• Good grasp of proper capitalization and punctuation
• Familiarity with different style guides

Some online proofreading jobs may require you to be a native English speaker, but that’s not always the case. There are plenty of potential clients who may be willing to work with you if English is your second language but you’re fluent.

Proofreading could be a natural fit if you’re detail-oriented. In terms of the educational background needed, some online proofreading jobs may require a bachelor’s degree or even a master’s degree.

However, it’s still possible to become a full-time proofreader without a university degree. Many beginner proofreaders learn everything they need to know to get started by taking an online course.

Want to get paid to proofread?

Sign up for a FREE webinar to learn how to make money proofreading online!

How much money do online proofreaders make?

The average online proofreader earns $52,307 annually, according to ZipRecruiter. At the low end, some proofreaders are making around $14,500 per year, while those at the higher end are earning a six-figure income .

Online proofreaders can easily earn a part-time or full-time income from home . A good hourly rate to target for beginner proofreaders is somewhere in the $25 to $50 range.

How do online proofreaders make money? The answer depends on whether a proofreader is hired as an independent contractor or an employee.

Proofreaders who work as independent contractors can set their own rates and charge:

• By the word
• By the page
• By the hour
• By the project

If you’d like to run your own business, becoming an online proofreader can be a great way to do it.

Proofreaders who are hired as employees, on the other hand, typically have their salaries set by the company they’re working for. There may, however, be room for negotiation and employees may get some nice perks or benefits that independent contractors don’t.

Related post: How to Make $10,000 a Month: 25 High Paying Side Hustle Ideas

35 Best Proofreading Jobs for Beginners

When it comes to finding proofreading jobs online, there are a few things to keep in mind.

First, consider what type of proofreading gigs you’re interested in. For example, if you’re looking for flexible options, then you might want to look for a freelance proofreading job that allows for remote work.

Next, check out what’s required of the job itself.

When creating job postings for open positions, companies might include a little detail or a lot. If you’re looking for online proofreading jobs for beginners, then it’s important to understand what the job involves and how those requirements match up with your skills and experience.

Finally, take a look at the pay. 

When you’re just starting as a freelance proofreader, it’s tempting to lowball yourself just to get work. But that can be a big mistake.

If you start out accepting low rates of pay, it’s easy to get stuck in a cycle of doing that over and over again. So consider what you want your target hourly rate to be, then focus your search on jobs that pay that amount. 

Ready to find available proofreading jobs? Here are 35 places to start your search.

Upwork is an online job marketplace that connects freelancers with companies that want to hire them. 

While this online platform does have its critics, Upwork can still be a good place to find your first proofreading job. I used it in the early days of my freelance career to find work.

If you want to use Upwork, you’ll need to create an account first. Once your account is approved, you can create a profile and start searching for online proofreading jobs. 

You’ll need to send proposals for the jobs you want to apply for. And it helps to have a solid profile and portfolio to catch clients’ attention. 

Fiverr is another online platform that you can use to look for online proofreading jobs for beginners.

With Fiverr, you can create a profile and advertise your proofreading skills.

You can decide which proofreading services you want to offer and how you want to price them. It’s an easy way to start earning money proofreading when you have little to no experience!

Guru is similar to Upwork and it’s another online platform that you can use to find proofreading jobs for beginners.

Just like with Upwork, you’ll create an account and set up your profile. Once you’ve done that, you can browse online proofreading job listings to find ones that fit your criteria.

You can bid on jobs that you want to try and snag. And again, having a strong profile can work in your favor for landing clients. 

4. FlexJobs

FlexJobs is a remote work website that lists online jobs, including proofreading gigs.

What’s different about FlexJobs compared to other job boards is that you’re more likely to find high-paying gigs. It’s an excellent place to look for proofreading jobs that pay four figures a month.

FlexJobs is a paid job board, which means you’ll have to make a small investment to use it. But a FlexJobs membership could be well worth the money if you’re looking for a great platform with a solid reputation.

5. Virtual Vocations

Virtual Vocations is also a remote work job board. 

This one features a ton of online job opportunities, including remote proofreading and editing positions. 

Like FlexJobs, this site does charge a membership fee. But it could be well worth it if you’re able to sift out the proofreading jobs that pay peanuts and focus on quality opportunities. 

6. Clickworker

Clickworker offers online proofreading job opportunities for people who have an excellent command of their native language and enjoy correcting errors.

To make money proofreading through Clickworker, you first have to complete a few text creation tasks. From there, you can take an online proofreading assessment.

This assessment is used to qualify you as a proofreader with Clickworker. Once you’ve done that, you can start taking on proofreading jobs through the site.

Pay is per-word and based on the quality level of the project. 

7. Proofreading Pal

Proofreading Pal could be a great place to look for online proofreading jobs if you already have experience or a college degree.

Proofreaders who use this site can make $500 to $3,000 a month reviewing documents online. 

Right now, Proofreading Pal is looking for new proofreaders who:

• Are currently employed by or enrolled as a graduate or postgraduate student in an accredited United States college or university and have a minimum GPA of 3.5 OR
• Have a graduate degree with a minimum of five years of professional proofreading and editing experience

This one could be a little tougher to get approved for if you’re new to proofreading and there’s a lengthy application form. But it’s definitely worth bookmarking for later as you gain more experience. 

8. Telus International (formerly Lionbridge)

Telus International offers flexible work at home jobs , including ones that require proofreading.

You register, then complete a skills evaluation. You’ll be contacted when work is available that fits your skills.

You then complete the work at your own pace. And once it’s finished, you get paid!

9. Get Editing Jobs

GetEditingJobs.com is primarily geared toward people who are looking for editing and freelance writing jobs. But you can also find online proofreading jobs here as well.

It’s free to start searching for job opportunities. And to make your job search easier, you can sign up for email alerts to let you know when new proofreading gigs are posted! 

10. ProofreadingServices.com

ProofreadingServices.com offers full and part-time remote proofreading jobs.

The pay is competitive, ranging from $19 to $46 an hour, depending on the project turnaround time. 

You can also work on a flexible schedule, which is good if you’re a stay at home mom , student or you already have a 9 to 5. 

11. LinkedIn 

LinkedIn is a fantastic place to find work as a freelancer or proofreader. 

You can use the LinkedIn Jobs board to search for remote proofreading opportunities. And you can use LinkedIn in general as a networking tool.

The more connections you make on LinkedIn, the more likely you are to encounter someone who needs to hire a proofreader or who can refer you for a proofreading job. 

12. Freelancer.com

Freelancer.com is an online marketplace where businesses can go to hire freelancers, including proofreaders.

You can create a profile on the site advertising your services. And you can bid on jobs or create an online portfolio to attract clients. 

13. Polished Paper

Polished Paper is another option for finding online proofreading jobs as you become more experienced. 

This site hires freelance proofreaders to review:

• Dissertations
• Business documents
• Journal articles
• Application essays
• Personal statements
• Resumes/cover letters
• Blog entries

You’ll have to register and take a proofreading test to apply.

But if you have experience proofreading any of those types of content, this could be a great place to find a high-paying gig.

Reedsy is an online community that’s designed to help authors, writers and freelancers come together. 

When you create a profile on Reedsy, you can be matched up with authors or writers to work with. This can take some of the hassle out of deciding which proofreading jobs to apply for. 

15. PeoplePerHour

PeoplePerHour is another freelancing community you could use to find at-home proofreading jobs as a beginner. 

Over a million businesses use this site to find freelancers of all skill levels. 

You can decide which freelance proofreading services you want to offer and what type of clients you want to work with. And you can also set your own rates so it’s super flexible. 

16. Wordvice

Wordvice could be a good fit if you’re looking for editing or proofreading jobs online and are a native English speaker.

And if you’re fluent in languages other than English, you could also check out Wordvice’s job listings for freelance translators. 

This site does require a graduate degree to be considered for proofreading work. But you can work online and the hours are flexible. 

17. Mediabistro

Mediabistro offers a mix of both in-house and remote work jobs, including listings for proofreaders.

I used this site to find freelance writing gigs as a beginner.

And a lot of top-shelf companies in the publishing space use it to find and hire freelancers.  

18. American Journal Experts

American Journal Experts offers freelance editing positions but it’s still worth a look if you’re interested in online proofreading jobs that also require editing.

Freelancers can take advantage of flexible work schedules and you can work independently. You’re also provided with comprehensive support in case you need help or have questions as you work through your editing tasks.

19. Robert Half

Robert Half is a lesser-known option for finding online proofreading jobs. But it’s a site that’s worth adding to your job search list if you’re interested in remote or contract proofreading work. 

It’s really easy to find proofreading jobs through the site. You can plug in your keywords in the search bar or set up an email alert and online proofreading gigs are delivered to your inbox.

20. Gramlee

Gramlee is always hiring for online proofreading jobs and online editing jobs. 

Aside from having solid proofreading skills, you’ll also need to be good at time management. Gramlee advertises 24-hour turnaround times for editing and proofreading services so it could be a great fit if you’re able to work at a faster pace. 

21. Writer’s Relief

Writer’s Relief is one of the top 100 websites for writers.

And like Gramlee, they’re always accepting applications for online proofreaders. You’ll need to be located in the United States to submit an application.  

This site offers proofreading services for authors, including reviews of poetry, books, short stories and essays. So it’s worth checking out if you’re the literary type.

22. OneSpace

OneSpace routinely posts listings for freelancers of all backgrounds, including graphic designers, writers and proofreaders.

Finding online proofreading jobs here can be hit or miss since they sometimes have only a few positions available. 

But it’s still one of the best options to bookmark since they pay daily and they offer proofreading gigs for people at all experience levels. 

CACTUS works with over 200,000 clients so there are plenty of opportunities to find online proofreading jobs for beginners here. 

Aside from proofreading jobs, you can also find freelance editing work and freelance translation jobs. 

One of the company’s best features is its task workflow, which makes it easy to accept and submit proofreading assignments so you can get paid faster!

24. Managed Editing

Managed Editing hires freelancers for proofreading jobs so you can earn money where you are, on your own schedule.

There is an application you have to fill out, which is quite detailed. But the more information you can provide about your proofreading skills and experience, the better your odds of getting matched for a paid proofreading job.

25. Scribendi

Scribendi offers editing and proofreading services for businesses.  

This site is unique because it offers specialized proofreading services, including:

• English as a Second Language (ESL) proofreading
• Academic proofreading
• Proofreading for authors
• Proofreading for personal documents
• Editing and proofreading for students
• Business and corporate proofreading services

If you have experience with any of those things, you could unlock a steady stream of online proofreading jobs with Scribendi.

26. Scribie

Scribie is technically an online transcription service. But they do use online proofreaders as part of the service they offer to their transcription clients. 

You’ll have to have a good comprehension of English to apply. There’s also a certification process you have to complete before you can start working through the site. 

27. Edit Fast

Edit Fast helps skilled editors, proofreaders and writers find work. 

It’s really easy to use, too. You create a profile to receive notifications about jobs. If you see a job that interests you, you send the client a proposal.

If the client accepts your proposal, you do the work and get paid!

It’s a passive way to find online proofreading jobs without spending hours surfing job boards each day. 

28. WritingJobz.com

WritingJobz.com is great for finding proofreading and writing jobs you can do from home.

What I love about this site is that you always get paid for your time. So if you have a nitpicky client that wants endless revisions, WritingJobz.com makes sure you’re compensated for that. 

That’s a huge plus and a great reason to consider applying to become a freelance proofreader here. 

29. Domainite

Domainite helps you find paid proofreading jobs online, regardless of skill level.

There is an editing test you have to complete first to apply. And you also need to know your way around Microsoft Word. 

But overall, it’s one of the easier sites to start finding paid proofreading jobs as a beginner. 

30. R3ciprocity

R3ciprocity offers a super simple way to make money proofreading online.

With this site, people submit their work to be reviewed and proofread. As you proofread documents, you earn credits. 

Those credits can then be converted to cash and deposited into your bank account via Stripe. 

This site may not pay quite as much as some online proofreading jobs. But it’s an easy way to get your feet wet and start building up your proofreading experience. 

31. Academia-Research

Academia-Research specializes in academic writing. As in, they hire people to write essays, research papers and other academic content.

But they also hire online proofreaders and copy editors as well. 

You might want to check out this site for work at home proofreading jobs if you have an academic background or just enjoy reading academic writing. 

32. Babbletype

Babbletype offers transcription, editing and translation services to its clients. So if you’re skilled at one or all three, you could easily earn great money from home through this site. 

One thing they look for is the ability to get along well with others. So solid communication skills could give you an edge.

At the moment, they aren’t taking applications for online proofreading jobs. But you could still keep tabs on the site for updates when new jobs open up. 

33. EditorLive

EditorLive could be an option if you’re looking for a full-time online proofreading job and live in Colorado, Georgia, Massachusetts, Nevada or Texas.

This site looks for online proofreaders who have a college degree and can provide at least two references. There’s also a multi-step assessment you’ll need to complete as part of the application process. 

34. MotherWorks

If you’re a stay at home mom who’s looking for online proofreading jobs or any other type of freelance work you’ll definitely want to check out MotherWorks .

This site features remote and online jobs for stay at home moms or any mom who wants to earn an income online. 

You can find proofreading jobs to do from home, along with editing jobs, writing gigs and virtual assistant jobs, to name a few!

35. Scribe Media

Scribe Media offers book coaching, book publishing, book writing and marketing services for authors.

The company regularly hires remote support staff, including online proofreaders, to help authors get their books published and available for sale.

There aren’t as many online proofreading jobs listed here, but it’s worth checking out if you’re specifically interested in working in the book publishing industry.

Start a Proofreading Business

One of the best ways to find online proofreading jobs is to make them for yourself.

So how do you do that?

Simple. You start an online proofreading business and become your own boss.

Here are the pros of starting your own proofreading business:

• You have control over which jobs you take (or don’t)
• You can set your own hours and work when you want
• Earning potential is unlimited since you can set your rates and decide how much to work
• You can connect with some really great people along the way, including clients, editors and other proofreaders
• It can be easier to become an expert in a particular type of proofreading and niche down, which can help you increase your earnings

If you want to start a proofreading business of your own, setting up a website is a good place to start.

For that, you’ll need a domain name and web hosting. NameHero is who I use for my sites, though Siteground is also highly recommended.

Once you’ve got your site set up, you can decide if you want to add a blog element to it. Be sure to read my ultimate guide to starting a blog if that’s something you’re interested in!

From there, you can work on building out your site and portfolio to start getting clients.

What do you need to start an online proofreading business?

One advantage of starting an online proofreading side hustle is that startup costs are typically low. You don’t need much money to get started.

Here’s what you’ll need to launch your profitable proofreading business:

• Editing software (Microsoft Word or Google docs work fine)
• Proofreading software ( Grammarly is great for beginners!)
• A PayPal account or bank account so you can get paid
• Dropbox if you need cloud storage

It’s also a good idea to set up social media accounts so you can start building your brand online.

Do you need to take a proofreading course?

If you do a quick Google search for “how to make money proofreading” or “how to get proofreading jobs online”, you’ll probably come across at least one website advertising online proofreading courses. 

Every course is different but the gist is the same: they equip you with the basic skills and knowledge you need to get started to make money proofreading. 

So, are these courses a good use of your time and money?

Online proofreading courses can definitely give you a leg up and help increase your earning potential. 

There are two things to keep in mind, though.

First, not all courses are the same. There are definitely some that are better than others. 

And second, you only get out of a course what you put into it. So if you can’t commit to spending the time to dive through the modules and absorb all the lessons, an online proofreading course could be a waste of money for you. 

With that being said, I can’t recommend Caitlin Pyle’s Proofread Anywhere course enough. 

She’s an undisputed expert in all things proofreading and based on feedback I’ve gotten from some of her students, this course is well worth the time and money required. 

If you want to get a sneak peek at what the course covers, you can sign up for a free workshop that covers the basics of how to make money as a proofreader. 

It costs nothing but your time and it can give you a better idea of whether online proofreading is the right side job for you.

How to Find Proofreading Jobs From Home

Not sure where to find paying proofreading gigs? There are a number of different ways to find proofreading jobs from home, including:

• Networking on LinkedIn or social media
• Asking for referrals
• Reaching out to friends and family
• Cold pitching your services to potential clients
• Responding to ads on freelance and remote work job boards

All of those options can lead to paying gigs.

And in the meantime, I recommend checking out the free proofreading workshop I mentioned earlier to learn more about how to make money as a proofreader.

Final thoughts on online proofreading jobs for beginners

Proofreading can be an excellent way to make money online. Depending on what kind of proofreading jobs you’re interested in, you could easily make a part-time or full-time income from the comfort of your own home. It’s one of the best options for creating an additional income stream, with no prior experience needed.

If you want to learn more about how proofreading works, be sure to check out Caitlin Pyle. She really knows her stuff!

Remember, her proofreading webinar doesn’t cost a dime. So you can take the workshop to help decide if online proofreading jobs are right for you. 

Need more money tips? Read these posts next:

• 140+ Legitimate Side Hustle Ideas to Make Extra Money
• 37 Creative Side Hustles That Can Help You Make $100 a Day (or More!)
• How to Make $2000 a Month From Home With Flexible Side Hustles
• 50 Legitimate Ways to Make an Extra $1000 a Month Online (and Offline)
• 50+ Things to Sell to Make Money (Sell Stuff for Cash Fast!)

Best Online Proofreading Jobs for Beginners

About Rebecca Lake

Rebecca Lake is a Certified Educator in Personal Finance, freelance writer and homeschooling single mom of two. Since 2014, she's paid off nearly $100,000 in debt and grown her net worth to seven figures. Her work has appeared online at top personal finance websites, including Forbes Advisor, Bankrate, Investopedia, The Balance, CreditCards.com and U.S. News & World Report. Find out more.

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Blog – Posted on Tuesday, Sep 24

Get paid to read: 18 legitimate sites that pay reviewers.

Serious question: do you want to get paid to read? You might laugh it off at first, thinking that that sounds too good to be true, but it’s not. You can get paid for spending time on what you love: reading books. 

Of course, the key to this #hack is book reviewing, where you offer your personal opinion of a book after you’re done with it. (If you’d like to learn more, check out this post to discover how to write a book review .) Because books are constantly being published, book reviewers are generally always in demand. 

So whether you’re a voracious reader of nonfiction, genre fiction, classics, or indie books, there’s probably an outlet that’s willing to compensate you if you read (review) for them! Without further ado, here’s a definitive list of the 17 sites that will help you get paid to read. If you want to cut to the chase and find out which of them is the right fit for you, we recommend first taking this quick quiz:

Which review community should you join?

Find out which review community is best for your style. Takes 30 seconds!

Then read on for the full list of all of the ways to get paid while reading!

 1. Kirkus Media

💸 Pay: Freelance basis

👀 More information: Check here

If you’ve ever lingered on a book’s Amazon page before, you’ll have heard of Kirkus Reviews. It’s one of the most respected sources of book reviews out there, publishing many of the blurbs that you’ll see on Amazon, or on the cover of your favorite titles.

You have to wonder: where do all of these reviews come from? That’s where you come into the picture. Kirkus Media lists an open application for book reviewers. As of right now, they’re specifically searching for people who will review English and Spanish-language indie titles. Some of the qualities that they want in reviewers include: experience, a keen eye, and an ability to write about a 350-word review in two weeks’ time.

To apply, simply send your resume and writing samples! You can find out more about this opportunity here .

2. Reedsy Discovery

💸 Pay: Tip basis

A powerhouse in the world of indie books, Reedsy Discovery gives book reviewers the chance to read the latest self-published books before anyone else. You can browse through hundreds of new stories before picking one that piques your interest. And if you’ve built up a brand as a book reviewer on Reedsy Discovery, you can liaise with authors who contact you directly for a review.

Its application process is pretty simple: just complete this form to be selected as a book reviewer. Once you’re accepted, you can start looking through the shelves and reading immediately. One more thing: book reviewers can get tips for their book reviews. Readers can send $1, $3, or $5 as a token of appreciation (which, let’s be honest, all book reviewers deserve more of).

If this system intrigues you, you can “discover” more about how it works on this page .

3. Any Subject Books

Any Subject Books is a full-suite self-publishing service. More importantly for you, it hires book reviewers on a book-by-book basis to help them review new books.

They’re big on in-depth, honest, and objective reviews. No fluff here! They’re also happy to give you books in your preferred genres, so if you’re a voracious reader of war fiction, you won’t typically be asked to read the latest paranormal romance hit (or vice versa).

Sadly, Any Subject Books is not currently open to book reviewer applications, but check back again — this could change at any time.

4. BookBrowse

BookBrowse reviews both adult fiction and nonfiction, and some books for young adults. The site focuses on books that are not only enjoyable to read, with great characters and storylines, but that also leave the reader knowing something about the world they did not before. Reviewers also write a "beyond the book" article for each book they review.

5. Online Book Club

💸 Pay: $5 to $60

Online Book Club’s FAQ begins with a warning for all aspiring book reviewers: “First of all, this is not some crazy online get-rich-quick scheme. You won't get rich and you won't be able to leave your day job.”

That daunting reminder aside, Online Book Club’s setup is pretty reasonable, not to mention straightforward. You’ll get a free copy of the book and you’ll get paid for your review of that book. Moreover, it’s one of the few sites that’s transparent about their payment rates (anywhere between $5 to $60). To begin the sign-up process, simply submit your email here .

6. U.S. Review of Books

U.S. Review of Books is a nation-wide organization that reviews books of all kinds and publishes those reviews in a popular monthly newsletter. The way that it works for a book reviewer is simple: when a book title is posted, reviewers can request to read it and get assigned.

A typical review for U.S. Review of Books is anywhere between 250 and 300 words. They are looking particularly for informed opinions and professionalism in reviews, along with succinctness. To apply, submit a resume, sample work, and two professional references via email. But we’d recommend that you check out some previous examples of their book reviews here to first get a better sense of what they’re looking for.

7. Women’s Review of Books

💸 Pay: $100 per review

Women’s Review of Books is a long-running, highly-respected print publication that’s a part of Wellesley Centers for Women. This feminist magazine has been published for 36 years and is looking for more book reviewers to join their force.

If you plan on writing reviews for Women’s Review of Books , you should be aware that its reviews are published “in the service of action and consciousness.” Most of its writers are also academics, journalists, or book reviewers with some years of experience behind them. If you meet these qualifications and are accepted, you’ll be compensated $100 per review.

To pitch then a review, send them an email with a quick proposal. For more details, click here .

8. eBookFairs

eBookFairs primarily helps authors grow their author platforms, but it also has a Paid Book Reader program where readers can earn money by, you guessed it, reviewing the books listed on their site.

Note that they do have clear instructions on what qualifies as a review, so do read their guidelines carefully before applying to make sure you can meet them. For instance, the review must be at least 250 words, you must allow at least 3 days between reviews submitted, and it must provide helpful feedback for the author. There are also a limited number of paid reader positions available.

💸 Pay: Variable

If you’re a freelancer, you’re probably already familiar with Upwork! One of the biggest marketplaces for freelancers, Upwork has fingers in every industry’s pie. So it won’t be a surprise to learn that people who are looking for freelance book reviewers regularly post listings on its marketplace.

Because each job caters to an individual client, the requirements and qualifications will differ. It might be a one-time project, or the gig might turn into a long-running collaboration with the client. Generally, the listing will specify the book’s genre, so you’ll know what you’re getting before you agree to collaborate with the client on the other end.

To begin, you’ll need to sign up as a freelancer on Upwork. Find out more information on Upwork’s FAQ page!

10. Moody Press

💸 Pay: Free ARCs

Moody Press is a nonprofit publishing house of Christian titles and Bible study resources. If this is your niche, you’ll definitely be interested in Moody Press’ Blogger Review Program! As part of the program, you’ll get free copies of book published by Moody Press.

Like some of the other programs on this list, you won’t get paid for your review, but you will get a free book. Moody Press also asks you to write your honest review within 60 days of reading it. To get a feel for it, try joining the MP Newsroom Bloggers Facebook group , where you can directly interact with existing members of the program.

11. New Pages

💸 Pay: Variable 

Not interested in writing anything longer than 300 words? Are quick flash book reviews more your pace? If so, becoming a NewPages reviewer might be just your speed. NewPages.com is an Internet portal to small presses, independent publishers and bookstores, and literary magazines. More importantly, they’re looking for short book reviews (generally between 100 and 200 words) on any recent literary magazine or book that you’ve read.

If you’re already a fan of books from small presses or unknown magazines, even better: that’s exactly the kind of reviewer NewPages wants to work with. If you’d like to look through some of their past book reviews to see if your style matches, check out their book review archive here .

12. Publishers Weekly

Publishers Weekly is an online magazine focused on international book publishing and all that that entails. More pertinently, it regularly reviews both traditionally published and self-published books, which means that it does occasionally have a call for book reviewers. As of right now, it’s closed to applications — but if you check its Jobs page every once in a while, you might see an opening again.

13. Tyndale Blog Network

Tyndale Blog Network runs a program called My Reader Rewards Club, which is based on an innovative rewards system. If you join as a member, you can earn points for certain actions that you take on the site (for instance, inviting a friend to the program and sharing a direct link to MyReaderRewardsClub.com on Facebook each fetches you 10 points).

Writing a review for a Tyndale or NavPress book on Amazon or Barnes & Noble gets you 10 points, with a maximum limit of 50 points in 30 days. In turn, you can use your accumulated points to receive more books off of Tyndale’s shelves. If this sounds like something that may be up your alley, check out their FAQ here.

14. Booklist Publications

💸 Pay: $12.50 to $15 per review

Booklist is the American Library Association’s highly respected review journal for librarians. Luckily for freelance writers, Booklist assigns freelance book reviews that vary from blog posts for The Booklist Reader to published book review in Booklist magazine.

As the site itself suggests, it’s important that you’re familiar with Booklist Publication’s outlets (which include Booklist magazine, the quarterly Book Links , and The Booklist Reader blog) and its writing style. Reviews are generally very short (no longer than 175 words) and professionally written. You can discover more of its guidelines here — and an archive of previous Booklist reviews here .

To apply, contact a relevant Booklist editor and be prepared to submit a few of your past writing samples.

15. Instaread

💸 Pay: $100 per summary

Not interested in writing critical takes on the books that you read? Then Instaread might be for you. Instaread has an open call for book summaries, which recap “the key insights of new and classic nonfiction.”

Each summary should be around 1000 to 1500 words, which makes it a fair bit lengthier than your average flash book review. However, Instaread will compensate you heartily for it: as of 2019, Instaread pays $100 for each summary that you write. You can peruse Instaread’s recommended Style Guide on this page , or download Instaread from your App Store to get a better feel for the app.

16. NetGalley

If you’ve dreamt about becoming an influencer in the book reviewing community, you may want to give NetGalley a look. Put simply, NetGalley is a service that connects book reviewers to publishers and authors. Librarians, bloggers, booksellers, media professionals, and educators can all sign up to NetGalley to read books before they’re published.

How it works is pretty simple. Publishers put digital review copies out on NetGalley for perusal, where NetGalley’s members can request to read, review, and recommend them. It’s a win-win for both publisher and reviewer: the publisher is able to find enthusiastic readers to provide an honest review for their books, and the reviewer gets access to a vast catalog of books.

The cherry on top is that NetGalley membership is 100% free! Simply use this form to sign up. And if you’d like more information, you can dip into their FAQ here .

17. getAbstract

Are you an avid reader of nonfiction books? getAbstract is a site that summarizes 18,000+ nonfiction books into 10-minute bites. Their Career Opportunities page often includes listings for writers. At the time of this post’s writing, getAbstract is looking for science and technology writers who can sum up the latest magazine articles and books. They pay on a freelance basis, so apply through their website to get further details.

18. Writerful Books

💸 Pay: $10 to $50

Writerful Books is an author services company that provides everything from beta reading to (you guessed it) book reviewing. As such, they’re always on the lookout for book reviewers with fresh and compelling voices.  

One of the benefits of this gig is that you can review any book that you want for them (although they prefer contemporary award-winning American, Australian, British, Canadian, Irish, and New Zealand authors). Getting a regularly paid gig with Writerful Books isn’t a guarantee, but if you regularly publish quality reviews for them, they may contact you. 

To apply, you’ll have to be able to provide previous book review samples. Here’s the job listing if you’re curious to learn more about this role.

If you're an avid reader,  sign up to Reedsy Discovery  for access to the freshest new reads — or  apply as a reviewer  to give us  your  hot takes!

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Guest Essay

What Sentencing Could Look Like if Trump Is Found Guilty

By Norman L. Eisen

Mr. Eisen is the author of “Trying Trump: A Guide to His First Election Interference Criminal Trial.”

For all the attention to and debate over the unfolding trial of Donald Trump in Manhattan, there has been surprisingly little of it paid to a key element: its possible outcome and, specifically, the prospect that a former and potentially future president could be sentenced to prison time.

The case — brought by Alvin Bragg, the Manhattan district attorney, against Mr. Trump — represents the first time in our nation’s history that a former president is a defendant in a criminal trial. As such, it has generated lots of debate about the case’s legal strength and integrity, as well as its potential impact on Mr. Trump’s efforts to win back the White House.

A review of thousands of cases in New York that charged the same felony suggests something striking: If Mr. Trump is found guilty, incarceration is an actual possibility. It’s not certain, of course, but it is plausible.

Jury selection has begun, and it’s not too soon to talk about what the possibility of a sentence, including a prison sentence, would look like for Mr. Trump, for the election and for the country — including what would happen if he is re-elected.

The case focuses on alleged interference in the 2016 election, which consisted of a hush-money payment Michael Cohen, the former president’s fixer at the time, made in 2016 to a porn star, Stormy Daniels, who said she had an affair with Mr. Trump. Mr. Bragg is arguing that the cover-up cheated voters of the chance to fully assess Mr. Trump’s candidacy.

This may be the first criminal trial of a former president in American history, but if convicted, Mr. Trump’s fate is likely to be determined by the same core factors that guide the sentencing of every criminal defendant in New York State Court.

Comparable cases. The first factor is the base line against which judges measure all sentences: how other defendants have been treated for similar offenses. My research encompassed almost 10,000 cases of felony falsifying business records that have been prosecuted across the state of New York since 2015. Over a similar period, the Manhattan D.A. has charged over 400 of these cases . In roughly the first year of Mr. Bragg’s tenure, his team alone filed 166 felony counts for falsifying business records against 34 people or companies.

Contrary to claims that there will be no sentence of incarceration for falsifying business records, when a felony conviction involves serious misconduct, defendants can be sentenced to some prison time. My analysis of the most recent data indicates that approximately one in 10 cases in which the most serious charge at arraignment is falsifying business records in the first degree and in which the court ultimately imposes a sentence, results in a term of imprisonment.

To be clear, these cases generally differ from Mr. Trump’s case in one important respect: They typically involve additional charges besides just falsifying records. That clearly complicates what we might expect if Mr. Trump is convicted.

Nevertheless, there are many previous cases involving falsifying business records along with other charges where the conduct was less serious than is alleged against Mr. Trump and prison time was imposed. For instance, Richard Luthmann was accused of attempting to deceive voters — in his case, impersonating New York political figures on social media in an attempt to influence campaigns. He pleaded guilty to three counts of falsifying business records in the first degree (as well as to other charges). He received a sentence of incarceration on the felony falsification counts (although the sentence was not solely attributable to the plea).

A defendant in another case was accused of stealing in excess of $50,000 from her employer and, like in this case, falsifying one or more invoices as part of the scheme. She was indicted on a single grand larceny charge and ultimately pleaded guilty to one felony count of business record falsification for a false invoice of just under $10,000. She received 364 days in prison.

To be sure, for a typical first-time offender charged only with run-of-the-mill business record falsification, a prison sentence would be unlikely. On the other hand, Mr. Trump is being prosecuted for 34 counts of conduct that might have changed the course of American history.

Seriousness of the crime. Mr. Bragg alleges that Mr. Trump concealed critical information from voters (paying hush money to suppress an extramarital relationship) that could have harmed his campaign, particularly if it came to light after the revelation of another scandal — the “Access Hollywood” tape . If proved, that could be seen not just as unfortunate personal judgment but also, as Justice Juan Merchan has described it, an attempt “to unlawfully influence the 2016 presidential election.”

History and character. To date, Mr. Trump has been unrepentant about the events alleged in this case. There is every reason to believe that will not change even if he is convicted, and lack of remorse is a negative at sentencing. Justice Merchan’s evaluation of Mr. Trump’s history and character may also be informed by the other judgments against him, including Justice Arthur Engoron’s ruling that Mr. Trump engaged in repeated and persistent business fraud, a jury finding that he sexually abused and defamed E. Jean Carroll and a related defamation verdict by a second jury.

Justice Merchan may also weigh the fact that Mr. Trump has been repeatedly held in contempt , warned , fined and gagged by state and federal judges. That includes for statements he made that exposed witnesses, individuals in the judicial system and their families to danger. More recently, Mr. Trump made personal attacks on Justice Merchan’s daughter, resulting in an extension of the gag order in the case. He now stands accused of violating it again by commenting on witnesses.

What this all suggests is that a term of imprisonment for Mr. Trump, while far from certain for a former president, is not off the table. If he receives a sentence of incarceration, perhaps the likeliest term is six months, although he could face up to four years, particularly if Mr. Trump chooses to testify, as he said he intends to do , and the judge believes he lied on the stand . Probation is also available, as are more flexible approaches like a sentence of spending every weekend in jail for a year.

We will probably know what the judge will do within 30 to 60 days of the end of the trial, which could run into mid-June. If there is a conviction, that would mean a late summer or early fall sentencing.

Justice Merchan would have to wrestle in the middle of an election year with the potential impact of sentencing a former president and current candidate.

If Mr. Trump is sentenced to a period of incarceration, the reaction of the American public will probably be as polarized as our divided electorate itself. Yet as some polls suggest — with the caveat that we should always be cautious of polls early in the race posing hypothetical questions — many key swing state voters said they would not vote for a felon.

If Mr. Trump is convicted and then loses the presidential election, he will probably be granted bail, pending an appeal, which will take about a year. That means if any appeals are unsuccessful, he will most likely have to serve any sentence starting sometime next year. He will be sequestered with his Secret Service protection; if it is less than a year, probably in Rikers Island. His protective detail will probably be his main company, since Mr. Trump will surely be isolated from other inmates for his safety.

If Mr. Trump wins the presidential election, he can’t pardon himself because it is a state case. He will be likely to order the Justice Department to challenge his sentence, and department opinions have concluded that a sitting president could not be imprisoned, since that would prevent the president from fulfilling the constitutional duties of the office. The courts have never had to address the question, but they could well agree with the Justice Department.

So if Mr. Trump is convicted and sentenced to a period of incarceration, its ultimate significance is probably this: When the American people go to the polls in November, they will be voting on whether Mr. Trump should be held accountable for his original election interference.

What questions do you have about Trump’s Manhattan criminal trial so far?

Please submit them below. Our trial experts will respond to a selection of readers in a future piece.

Norman L. Eisen investigated the 2016 voter deception allegations as counsel for the first impeachment and trial of Donald Trump and is the author of “Trying Trump: A Guide to His First Election Interference Criminal Trial.”

The Times is committed to publishing a diversity of letters to the editor. We’d like to hear what you think about this or any of our articles. Here are some tips . And here’s our email: [email protected] .

Follow the New York Times Opinion section on Facebook , Instagram , TikTok , WhatsApp , X and Threads .

Biden urges Congress to end impasse and send aid to Israel and Ukraine

US president’s appeal comes as House Speaker Mike Johnson unveils plans to bring funding bills for a vote.

Citing Iran’s weekend attack against the US ally, President Joe Biden on Wednesday urged lawmakers to pass stalled legislation that would provide billions in military and other aid to Israel.

In a Wall Street Journal op-ed, Biden wrote, “[If] Iran succeeds in significantly escalating its assault on Israel, the US could be drawn in.”

Keep reading

Us legislators renew push for additional aid to israel after iran attack, biden’s frustrations with netanyahu ‘meaningless’ without action: analysts, what are the implications of iran’s missile attack on israel.

“Israel is our strongest partner in the Middle East; it’s unthinkable that we would stand by if its defenses were weakened and Iran was able to carry out the destruction it intended this weekend,” the US president wrote .

“We can make that outcome less likely by replenishing Israel’s air defenses and providing military aid now, so its defenses can remain fully stocked and ready.”

Biden’s appeal has come just days after Iran launched hundreds of missiles and drones on Sunday, in retaliation for a deadly Israeli bombing of the Iranian consulate in Syria’s capital, Damascus, earlier this month.

Top Israeli officials have said they intend to hit back at Iran after Sunday’s attack, despite calls from the Biden administration and other Western nations to avoid escalation.

Even as regional tensions have surged, the international community has intensified its appeals to the US and other Western nations to condition financial support for Israel upon an increased flow of humanitarian support into the Gaza Strip .  More than 33,800 Palestinians have died since Israel began its siege and blockade of the coastal strip in early October and United Nations officials have warned that the Strip is on the brink of famine.

Supplemental funding bill

While public criticism of the Biden administration’s support for Israel is growing, the country — which receives $3.8bn in US aid annually — has continued to enjoy strong bipartisan support among Washington legislators.

Still, a $95bn bill that would provide an additional $14bn in assistance to Israel, as well as billions more for other American allies, such as Ukraine and Taiwan, has stalled in Congress.

The US Senate passed the legislation — known as the supplemental funding bill — in February. But US House Speaker Mike Johnson has blocked the measure in the House of Representatives, bowing to pressure from hardline, conservative members of his own Republican Party.

A faction of the GOP has argued that the legislation does not do enough to address immigration at the US’s southern border, while other Republicans express concern about US funding for Ukraine’s fight against Russia’s invasion that began more than two years ago and shows no signs of ending.

For a bill to become law in the US, it must be approved by both chambers of Congress and signed by the president.

Since Iran’s attacks on Sunday, Johnson has faced growing pressure on Capitol Hill to bring the supplemental funding bill to the floor for a vote.

“Time is of the essence, and we must ensure critical aid is delivered to Israel and our other democratic allies facing threats from our adversaries around the world,” dozens of US lawmakers wrote in a letter to Johnson earlier this week.

Amid the growing pressure, Johnson wrote in a letter to House legislators on Wednesday that the text of three bills providing assistance to Ukraine, Israel and the Asia Pacific would be filed “soon today”.

A fourth bill with “other measures to confront Russia, China and Iran” will be posted later in the day, he said.

“We expect the vote on final passage on these bills to be on Saturday evening,” Johnson added.

It remains unclear if the bills will garner enough support to pass.

Most Democrats have previously rejected breaking down the foreign assistance bill by country, fearing that Republicans would pass the Israel portion and stall the aid to Ukraine.

But after the Iranian attack , it is unclear whether the Democrats, who control the Senate, would agree to an Israel-only aid bill.

‘Pivotal moment’

In his Wall Street Journal op-ed, President Biden wrote that while both Israel and Ukraine can defend themselves, “they depend on American assistance, including weaponry , to do it. And this is a pivotal moment.”

The supplemental funding bill, Biden added, “shouldn’t be held hostage any longer by a small group of extreme Republican House members”.

Pentagon chief Lloyd Austin also stressed the importance of passing the foreign aid proposal.

“The most important thing that we can do right now is to pass the supplemental,” Austin told US legislators during a briefing on Capitol Hill on Wednesday morning.

Doing that, he said, “will provide us the opportunity to continue to provide security assistance to Israel in the form of air defence interceptors, munitions and things that it critically needs to be able to defend itself”.