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Last updated on Oct 18, 2021

Remote Proofreading Jobs and 26 Places to Find Them

With working from home becoming more common than ever before, remote proofreading jobs are gaining a lot of traction. Amongst the online jobs you can do, checking grammatical and spelling mistakes sounds like one of the easiest ones to pick up. But what exactly  does this kind of work entail, how much would it earn, and most importantly, how do you search for legitimate as well as rewarding proofreader jobs? These are all valid questions, the answers to which you can find right here.

What is proofreading?

To proofread is to go over a document’s final draft with a fine-tooth comb, searching for grammatical, spelling, punctuation, and formatting errors. Unlike the job of a copy editor, you don't have to concern yourself with language style or voice. It may seem simple, but it requires a thorough understanding of not just the English language but also the appropriate manuscript formatting styles.

Web content, academic papers, and many other types of writing — To proofread and correct each of these kinds of content requires a thorough understanding of its preferred language and formats.

Because of their project-by-project nature, it is common for the gigs you get in this sector to be online, freelance proofreading jobs.

Becoming a proofreader and securing remote jobs

Luckily, you don’t have to go through intensive training or education to become a proofreader. Preferably, you'd have a bachelor's degree in English, Journalism, or a field relevant to the kind of content your hope of proofread. (To proofread for a medical company, you'd need background in medicine, for example.) Other than that, a certificate of completion for a proofreading course can make your profile much more appealing to potential clients. To get started on the right foot, consider:

🎓 Taking a training course via societies such as the  Editorial Freelancers Association ;

📝 Brushing up on style guides (APA, Chicago, and AP Styles);

💻 Creating a profile and following relevant groups/hashtags (this may include creating your own website, a LinkedIn, or a professional Twitter account);

✅ Being flexible about the kind of job you take on (work from different industries, projects involving copy editing ).

You can get more tips in our comprehensive guide on how to become a proofreader . If you’re all clear about the set up, let’s discover all the places that you can find remote jobs for proofreaders.

26 places to find remote proofreading jobs

Below are all the sites that offer legitimate freelance proofreading jobs. We’ve divided the list into two parts: one for those with experience and qualifications, and one for those without.

If you’re going into proofreading with certificates, graduate qualifications, or expert experience, here are the sites that you should check out. 

1. ProofreadingPal

Specializing in academic proofreading,  ProofreadingPal  prides itself on having a highly experienced staff. Because its scholarly projects, the editing skills required by this site are very advanced and specific. To secure a remote proofreading job on this site, you need to be a postgraduate student with a minimum GPA of 3.5 or have a graduate degree along with minimum five years of experience.

If you have a PhD in a writing-intensive discipline,  Edit911  is a good candidate for some remote work. Its proofreading services also tend toward high-level academic editing, so experience is crucial. And as it caters to a worldwide audience, having a strong grasp of a few manuscript styles will be plus.

WordsRU  is great for those who work from home, because it welcomes job applicants from all over the world, as long as they have at least a Master’s degree or higher. It offers a wider range of services for customers, including fiction manuscripts and web content, so its proofreaders receive a variety of projects.

4. American Journal Experts

Similar to WordsRU,  AJE  offers online proofreading jobs for those who have been or are currently enrolled in higher education at universities approved by  the Carnegie Classification . And as the name suggests, this online proofreading opportunity is more suitable for those based in America.

You may or may not have a PhD or a Master’s degree, but if you do have a strong track record in book editing and proofreading,  Reedsy  is the place to be. Our marketplace connects thousands of indie authors with publishing experts (like you!) who can help them produce high quality titles. On average, our professionals set a  proofreading rate  of around $600-$750 per manuscript, though each project varies. (Note that you can set your rates per hour, per word, or per project.)

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6. Polished Paper

Focusing on business and academic editing,  Polished Paper 's proofreader jobs are also suitable for experienced professionals. Instead of proving their qualifications, applicants are asked to complete a 35-question test to demonstrate their editing skills before getting accepted.

7. Managed Editing

Having worked mainly with non-profit organizations and prestigious institutes,  Managed Editing  chooses its freelance proofreaders carefully. A successful applicant will have at least five years of experience and a Bachelor’s degree, although most of its editors and proofreaders have higher qualifications.

8. Wordvice

Apply to  Wordvice  for a more international experience: the company offers editing and proofreading services on essays and business documents for second-language English users. You must have a minimum of two years of experience and a graduate degree to join this team of freelancers. (And needless to say, the remote jobs they have are available to proofreaders across the world!)

9. Start your own freelance business

This basically means creating your own website (don't forget to have a contact section with your email address in it!) along with a LinkedIn, Twitter, or Facebook account to spread the word about it. As you are your own boss, you can work from home, a coffee shop, or wherever else you want! Use your credentials and professional connections to attract customers. Combine that with impeccable proofreading services and you’ll grow your freelance business  in no time.

If you’re just starting out or don’t have higher education qualifications — don’t worry, there are plenty of beginner-friendly sites where you can find proofreading gigs and begin amassing professional experience. 

10. Scribendi

If you do have some experience in content production, i.e. you’ve been a copywriter or have edited your university newspaper, you can apply to  Scribendi . Its online proofreading jobs are focused on academic writing from high school to university level, so having a Bachelor’s degree is a must.

11. Scribbr

Scribbr ’s services are tailored to a younger academic audience, and while it doesn’t ask for specific qualifications, applicants do go through a thorough vetting process. To become a remote proofreader at Scribbr, you have to pass a language test and complete several assignments for evaluation (for which you will receive feedback). If you’ve taken an editing course, you should be able to do well.

12. Proofreading Services

Every remote proofreading job available here focuses on academic and business writing. Prospective proofreaders can join the staff part-time or full-time by getting at least 95% on  the site’s 20-minute test , which mainly focuses on grammar and spelling.

As an education-oriented publication,  CACTUS Communications  is constantly on the lookout for academic editors who can help it produce clear, engaging content. It does require at least a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline, but you don’t need any prior work experience in editing and proofreading to find exciting opportunities.

14. Writer’s Relief

A resourceful website for authors,  Writer’s Relief  also provides book editing and publishing services which you as a remote proofreader can get involved in. Since they have  copy editors  going over everything beforehand, you’ll just have to focus on catching the little mistakes that slipped through.

Prompt  provides coaching services for college applicants, helping them with personal statements and essays. You will need to have been a university student yourself, and as the coach you’re expected to give more feedback than just online proofreading. It’s a good opportunity if you want to start with academic editing.

16. OneSpace Freelancers

OneSpace is a site made for new freelancers. There aren’t as many job postings on this site as on other proofreading services, but you do get support and feedback from their staff. They provide advice on how you can work better as a freelancer and build your business. So while you would't necessarily find remote work on this space, it's a good way to learn the craft of maintaining your freelance proofreading business in the long run.

17. Gramlee

From their tagline ("You write, we edti edit.") and service email address, you can already get a sense of how laid-back the staff at  Gramlee  would be. They welcome proofreaders with no qualifications, as long as they work hard to learn and fulfill the team’s guarantee of 24-hour turnover.

Upwork  is one of the biggest marketplaces for freelancers, and the remote jobs for editors and proofreaders you can find on here are often for technical and copy writing. Projects are usually on the smaller side, which means there isn’t always demand for highly experienced workers. Still, it's a good place to get started on your online proofreading career.

19. Flexjobs

Short for  flexible jobs ,  this job board  only posts work that you can do from home, so you don’t have to narrow the search yourself. There are plenty of proofreading jobs across many industries and countries for you to choose from, some of which are even full-time collaborations.

Indeed ’s interface is probably a familiar sight if you’ve looked for work before — it’s a platform that has everything from full-time positions to freelance gigs in all kinds of industries. Though it might take some digging, there are good remote jobs proofreaders can discover.

21. MediaBistro

MediaBistro  is a job board made specific for media-related jobs. You can filter your search to show only remote entry-level editing jobs to see if there’s anything available. Signing up also gets you a job alert round-up when new relevant jobs are posted.

22. Get Editing Jobs

Here’s another  editing-focused job posting site . You can search for remote proofreading jobs and it will automatically show you recent postings that fit the bill. You’ll then have to apply to the jobs on your own.

23. Domainite

Domainite  provides digital marketing services, from web designing to content writing and editing to its clients. You can easily sign up by filling in its form and sending in a writing sample. The scope of the work might go a little beyond the proofreading job, though you will acquire more skills that way!

Are you interested in marketing books? Visit our post on where to find book marketing jobs . 

24. Freelancer

This site  allows you to bid on a proofreading opportunity you can do remotely, and try to win the client over. There are a lot of projects available, so if you lose out on a bid for one, you can always find another!

❗ Note: Some of the rates you see here are much lower than the average as freelancers try to undercut to appeal to clients. Keep that in mind in formulating your own freelance quote .

25. Lionbridge

Lionbridge  is an international platform that offers marketing and business content creation services for firms across the globe. Specifically, its freelancers “test out” firms’ content — giving them feedback, not just on a linguistic point of view but also user experience and SEO. It's a bit of technical proofreading, if you’re interested.

Though it does not provide the highest paying remote proofreading jobs,  Fiverr is still a good opportunity for new freelancers to start their careers. It’s relatively easy to sign up to and create a profile that will attract customers, most of whom will be searching for competent beginners rather than experienced experts.

Hopefully this list will help you find your next remote job and kickstart your career, whether you’re a full-timer looking for side jobs or an aspiring freelancer. Remember to do your research and know what your proofreading service is worth to avoid being undercharged. With that, and a wish of good luck, we’ll send you into the world of freelance proofreading!

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Proofreading Jobs: 38 Best Online Options from Home

Hannah Yang

Proofreading is a necessary step for all written content, including blog posts, journalism articles, fiction, and more.

Becoming a proofreader is a great option if you’re looking for a flexible income stream. You can work from home, set your own schedule, and take on jobs based on your availability.

So, how do you find freelance proofreading jobs?

This article will explain the skills you need to become a proofreader, and show you where to find the best online proofreading jobs.

How to Become an Online Proofreader

Skills needed for proofreading jobs, best proofreading tool, 38 online proofreading jobs, conclusion: let pwa help you become the best online proofreader.

To start your freelance proofreading career, you need to proactively connect with clients and search for new projects.

There are dozens of websites and platforms you can use to start your job search, many of which post online proofreading jobs every day.

Some platforms let you post a profile without going through an application process; others ask for a resume and an application form.

The most competitive websites might ask you to pass a language editing assignment, or complete a proofreading sample, before they allow you to register.

If you have an area of expertise, you might be able to specialize in freelance proofreading jobs within that niche. For example, if you used to work in biology, you can proofread academic biology articles for a higher fee than the average proofreader.

A few high-paying websites and companies require proofreaders to have a degree in a writing-related field. For most freelance proofreading jobs, however, you can use your experience to prove that you are skilled, without the need for formal training.

If you’re worried about your lack of credentials, you can start with an online proofreading course to learn the basics and strengthen your resume.

As a new proofreader, you can expect to make around $10–$20 an hour. As you gain more experience, you can add jobs to your resume, build your proofreading and editing credibility, and increase your salary to match. The average freelance proofreader earns over $50,000 a year.

To succeed as a freelance proofreader, you need five skills: attention to detail, excellent grammatical knowledge, understanding of editorial styles, time management, and proficiency with online tools.

Skill #1: Attention to Detail

To be a successful freelance proofreader, you need a great eye for detail.

Proofreaders are the last line of defense—they examine the manuscript after the writer, developmental editor, copy editor, and the rest of the team have completed their tasks. Their job is to spot the spelling errors, grammatical mistakes, and other issues that everyone else missed.

Proofreaders need to ensure that all headings are consistent, there are no double spaces, and all page numbers are formatted in the same way.

You will need to pay strong attention to detail to make sure nothing slips by you.

Skill #2: Excellent Knowledge of English Grammar

When should you use a hyphen , and when should you use an em dash ?

What’s a dangling modifier , and how do you correct it?

Does the period at the end of a parenthetical remark go before or after the closing parenthesis ?

If you don’t know the answers to these questions, you might need to brush up on your grammar before looking at job listings. All freelance proofreading jobs require excellent knowledge of English grammar.

Skill #3: Understanding of Editorial Styles

Style and grammar are different. Before applying for proofreading jobs, we recommend that you familiarize yourself with the Chicago Manual of Style and the AP Stylebook . These are the two most common editorial styles.

You don’t need to memorize these manuals, because you can always reference them as you work—you just need to know how and where to find the answers to your style-related questions.

Different clients prefer different styles, depending on the audiences they’re writing for. Each client will have their own guidelines, and ask that you proofread based on that editorial style, so it can help to familiarize yourself with more than one manual.

Skill #4: Time Management

Most freelance proofreading jobs have tight deadlines.

Companies usually set their publishing schedules well in advance. This means that if you don’t finish your freelance proofreading job in time, you might slow down the publication pipeline and damage your reputation with the client.

Time management is important for all freelance work, because you need to set your own schedule. If you take on too many projects at a time, you will not be able to complete them. You have to understand your own capacity, and take on jobs to match.

Skill #5: Proficiency with Online Tools

Most freelance proofreading jobs will require you to use specific software and editing tools.

At the very least, you will need to know how to use editing softwares, such as Microsoft Word and Google Docs . You might also need proficiency in document-sharing softwares, such as DropBox.

For your own records, it can help to be proficient using spreadsheets, such as Microsoft Excel. Spreadsheets are the easiest way to keep track of your projects and income in a consistent and organized way.

The exact IT skills you’ll need will vary depending on the client or project. Don’t worry if you haven’t used all of these tools before—you can often pick them up as you go.

Even proofreaders can miss mistakes, especially when working with long manuscripts. The best way to succeed as a proofreader is to utilize the most effective tools you can.

You can use a grammar checker like ProWritingAid to help you excel at your freelance proofreading jobs. ProWritingAid’s Consistency Report will highlight capitalization inconsistencies, differently formatted ellipses, and more.

Sign up for a free ProWritingAid account.

Using ProWritingAid’s reports will help you improve your attention to detail, grammar skills, and editorial styles. You’ll be able to deliver clean, error-free writing to your clients every time.

There are dozens of platforms that can connect you to online proofreading jobs.

Some sites post a variety of different clients’ online proofreading jobs, and let you pick which ones interest you. Other sites require you to join their team, and then send pre-chosen work your way. You can decide which style you prefer.

If you’re a beginner, you should start with the least selective platforms and work your way up to more advanced jobs.

So where do you find your first legitimate, remote, high-paying freelance proofreading jobs?

Here’s a list of our 38 favorite options.

Upwork lets you create a personal profile and advertise yourself. You can use terms such as “freelance proofreader,” “online proofreading jobs,” and “remote proofreader” to tell clients what kinds of jobs you’re looking for.

One great perk of using Upwork is that you can see the profiles of other proofreaders. This means that you can compare your rates to them and ensure you’re charging a competitive fee.

2. Freelancer

Freelancer is a platform where you can bid on freelance proofreading jobs. Clients post their projects and describe what type of writer or editor they’re looking for.

You will need a premium account to continue bidding after you reach a certain number of projects, but to start with you can try it out for free. It is a great way to start your job search and land your first online proofreading job.

3. Hubstaff Talent

Hubstaff is a zero-fee platform for freelancers that allows you to bid on projects. The perk of using Hubstaff over Freelancer is that bidding is always free.

4. FlexJobs

FlexJobs is a site that manually vets freelance writing and editing jobs, so you know you’re always looking at legitimate, high-quality opportunities.

There is a small annual membership fee which will give you access to a trove of remote positions. You can search for the keywords “online proofreading jobs” or “online proofreader” to find high-quality, suitable, remote positions.

5. LinkedIn

LinkedIn is a great place to search for jobs in any industry.

Many clients will start looking for freelance proofreading services on LinkedIn. You want your profile to show up when they search for proofreaders.

Create a clean, professional profile with a headshot and a summary of the types of jobs you’re looking for. Use the keywords “proofreader,” “editor,” and “freelancer.”

There are also plenty of proofreading job ads on LinkedIn, so you can search them instead of waiting for clients to come to you.

Social media can be a great way to connect with other people in your field and find new opportunities.

Twitter has a thriving community of writers and editors who often post about jobs. Try searching for the hashtags #proofread, #proofreader, or #proofreading to meet other proofreaders. Proofreaders can help each other succeed by pooling their knowledge about where to find relevant, well-paying jobs.

7. Wordvice

Wordvice offers online proofreading and editing services. They have clients worldwide, some of whom speak English as a second language and are looking for native English-speaking proofreaders. Wordvice also has many clients at prestigious universities, such as Stanford and Columbia.

To join Wordvice, you need to go through a detailed application process. You’ll need to send them an application form, your resume, an editing sample, and you normally need a graduate degree to be accepted. If you meet their qualifications, however, Wordvice can be a treasure trove of online proofreading jobs.

8. CACTUS Communications

CACTUS Communications hires both freelance and full-time proofreaders. They specialize in proofreading for specific industries, such as medicine, biology, and chemistry. If you have a degree in a scientific field, you might excel in this company.

9. ProofreadingServices.com

Proofreading Services hires both full-time and part-time proofreaders. Their salary is competitive, ranging from $19 to $46 per hour, and you can work flexible hours from home. You can also connect and collaborate with other proofreaders, which is a great perk.

You don’t need a degree or a lot of experience to get started with this site–all you need is to take a 20-minute preliminary test. This site is another great way to start your job search.

10. SearchTempest

SearchTempest is a search engine that helps you find paid freelance jobs on Craigslist, eBay, Amazon, and Oodle.

You need to vet some of these jobs yourself, because anyone can post a listing, but you can find some great proofreading and editing opportunities if you have the time to sift through the list.

11. Polished Paper

At Polished Paper, you can find plenty of remote proofreading and editing jobs. The site tends to hire more experienced proofreaders, which means they pay more than sites that hire beginners.

To apply, you need to upload your resume and take a 35-question test, which you can use outside resources, such as formatting guides and stylebooks, to complete. If you succeed at these initial steps, they’ll ask you to complete an interview before you can start taking on proofreading jobs.

12. Guru.com

Guru.com is a tried-and-true platform that has been around for a long time. This platform will connect you to clients offering all kinds of jobs, from translating to proofreading and more.

Fill out your profile and start searching for proofreading gigs.

13. Gramlee

Gramlee offers editing services for all writers and they’re often looking to hire new proofreaders.

They charge a starting rate of 3 cents a word for a maximum of 3,000 words, so you’ll be making up to $90 per order. Once you become a senior editor, you can access even better-paid orders.

The application process is simple, you only need to submit a form. Once accepted, you’ll have access to a variety of different remote work projects.

Reedsy connects freelance editors and proofreaders with authors and writers. Clients will send you requests, and you can suggest a fee for their proofreading and editing projects.

Reedsy also has a great matching algorithm, so they’ll be able to pair you up with clients who fit your skills and expertise.

15. Scribbr

The application process for Scribbr is more involved than most of the sites on our list, however, you’ll get legitimate, high-paying jobs in exchange.

To apply, you need to take a language quiz, fill out a motivation statement about why you want to proofread with their team, and complete an editing assessment.

Once you’ve been accepted, you need to go through a short training program called Scribbr Academy where you edit several simulation orders. After completing the academy training, you’ll be ready to edit professionally as part of Scribbr’s team.

Scribbr Academy can also help you improve your own proofreading skills, which will be beneficial if you continue your job search with other sites and platforms.

16. Proofreading Pal

Proofreading Pal has a variety of projects, from academic papers to fiction manuscripts. The average pay for an editor at Proofreading Pal ranges from $500 to $3,000 per month.

To apply, you need a Bachelor’s degree and at least five years of experience. You can also work as a college or graduate student if you have a 3.5 GPA or higher, which is a great way to earn a high proofreading salary if you’re still in school.

17. EditFast

EditFast, which connects editors to various clients, is a quick and efficient way to find new projects.

However, it’s important to note that EditFast retains the rights to 40% of the total project price, and that you can’t communicate with clients outside of the EditFast system.

It’s a good site for building experience as a beginner proofreader, but over time, you may want to migrate to a site that takes a smaller cut.

18. Scribe Media

Scribe Media offers a wide variety of book editing services and you can join as a full-time editor or a freelance editor.

They don’t always have openings available, so you can set up email alerts to be notified when they have open positions.

19. Wordfirm Inc.

Wordfirm Inc. hires skilled editors to work as independent contractors. You need to be a highly skilled professional to be chosen, so this isn’t an option for beginners. On their website, they say that editors should have a college degree and at least five years of editing experience.

You have to fill out a lengthy application, which if you pass, will give you access to a wealth of high-paying proofreading jobs.

20. Click Worker

Click Worker is a site that lets writers and publishers outsource small tasks, such as editing, translation, and proofreading. Clients can create completed projects by hiring different people to do each of these micro-tasks.

Different projects offer a different fee per word depending on the level of experience you have.

You have to take a short proofreading test before you can start applying for available jobs.

21. Lionbridge

Lionbridge offers various types of remote jobs. Like Click Worker, Lionbridge outsources different jobs within each client’s project to freelance contractors.

The application process is fairly straightforward; you need to sign up and take a short skills test before you start taking on proofreading jobs.

22. ProBlogger

ProBlogger Jobs is a job board that specifically caters to bloggers. If you’re interested in proofreading for blog posts, this site can be a great way to find freelance work.

23. Get Editing Jobs

If you google “Get Editing Jobs,” you’ll find an online job board with listings for projects that require editors, proofreaders, and more.

You can check this job board regularly for new listings.

24. Sibia Proofreading

Sibia is a site that offers proofreading and editing services for fiction manuscripts, job applications, business memos, doctoral dissertations, and more.

If you’re a native English speaker and a college graduate, you can apply to join Sibia’s team. This will give you access to a wide variety of projects based on your personal preferences and experience.

25. American Journal Experts

American Journal Experts is a site that specializes in remote academic proofreading.

The application is straightforward, so it’s a great place to look for jobs as a beginner.

26. Quality Proofreading UK

Quality Proofreading UK provides professional proofreading services in the fields of business and academia.

They’re always looking to hire freelance proofreaders and editors who have science or business backgrounds. If you have experience in these fields, joining their team can be a great way to land consistent freelance work.

27. Kirkus Media

Kirkus Media helps authors get their books edited and reviewed. You can sign up to be a book reviewer , an editor, or a proofreader. All of these online jobs are fully remote and let you work flexible hours.

28. SmartBrief

SmartBrief specializes in business news and industry information, so if you have a background in a specific industry, this site might be a great way to use that knowledge and experience.

At $15 an hour, their proofreading jobs pay slightly less than most other sites on this list.

29. MediaBistro

MediaBistro compiles various media-related jobs, such as marketing, sales, writing, editing, and more. The site takes some knowledge to navigate, since there are many different job postings, but once you’ve figured it out, it’s a very effective option.

You can start by searching for proofreading jobs to see what they have available. You can also set up notification alerts, so you’ll see new relevant opportunities as soon as they appear.

30. Writer’s Job Shop

Writer’s Job Shop is an online resource for freelance editors, copy editors, and proofreaders. They offer a steady stream of editing and writing jobs.

31. Contenta

Contenta is a job board that tracks companies that hire writers. Almost always, companies that need writers also need proofreaders, so you can reach out to the companies that post ads on Contenta and ask if they need a proofreader.

32. Writer’s Relief

Writer’s Relief is a service that proofreads submissions for creative writers to increase their chances of getting published.

They’re often looking for new proofreaders to join their team, but they’re extremely selective. They accept only a small fraction of their proofreading applicants, however, it’s always worth applying because your skills may match their requirements.

33. Scribendi

Scribendi is a platform specifically designed for proofreaders. All jobs are remote, flexible, and high paying.

To apply, you need to be a native English speaker and a college graduate. They also ask that you be able to proofread at a speed of 1,000 to 1,500 words an hour.

34. WritingJobz

WritingJobz specializes in proofreading for academic papers, online blogs, news sources, and books. You can earn up to $11 a page for proofreading.

35. Managed Editing

Managed Editing requires all proofreaders to have a degree and a few years of experience.

To apply, you’ll need to fill out a form describing the topics you’ve had experience in and they might follow up asking for samples of your proofreading work.

36. Edit911

Edit911 requires more in-depth qualifications than most of the other opportunities on our list. In order to apply, you need a Ph.D. in English or another writing-intensive discipline. You also need to be a master copy editor or book editor.

If you have these qualifications, it’s worth applying to Edit911. As part of this company, you’ll stand out from the crowd.

37. OneSpace Freelancers

OneSpace Freelancers is a job marketplace that posts all kinds of freelance jobs, including proofreading projects.

You can submit an application form and ask them to notify you if they get new proofreading postings. Alternatively, you can check the site periodically to look for jobs on your own.

38. Start Your Own Proofreading Business

Once you’ve gained some proofreading experience, it can be a great idea to start an independent proofreading business. You can create a website detailing the services you offer and the rates you charge. That way, clients can come to you directly, so you don’t have to pay fees to external websites and platforms.

If you’ve stayed in touch with your previous clients, you can let them know that you’re starting your own company and ask if they have any new proofreading needs.

You should consider the business start-up costs, since you may want to pay for a website design, advertisements, and other initial needs. In the long run, however, the extra money you make will cover these costs.

Now you have all the tips and tricks you need to start working as a proofreader.

With the help of ProWritingAid, you can start your proofreading job search! ProWritingAid can help speed up your proofreading process by picking up errors all in one go.

Do you think proofreading might be a good option for you? Let us know in the comments.

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Hannah Yang is a speculative fiction writer who writes about all things strange and surreal. Her work has appeared in Analog Science Fiction, Apex Magazine, The Dark, and elsewhere, and two of her stories have been finalists for the Locus Award. Her favorite hobbies include watercolor painting, playing guitar, and rock climbing. You can follow her work on hannahyang.com, or subscribe to her newsletter for publication updates.

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13 Online Proofreading Jobs That Pay Well

What is Proofreading?

Pros of choosing online proofreading as a career .

• You can work remotely.
• You’re in charge of your own pace and working environment, with no micromanaging supervisor around!
• You are in control of your own schedule and can fit proofreading in around your other commitments.
• You’ll work effortlessly as a proofreader if you have a keen attention to details.
• Taking up as many proofreading assignments as you like is completely up to you 
• There are many earning opportunities for newbies in proofreading.

Cons of Choosing Online Proofreading As A Career 

• Some of the sites aren’t very easy to understand and it might take you some time to figure out available projects.
• High-paying proofreading jobs only come with experience. If you’re a beginner, you’ll have to start relatively small and gain more opportunities in the working world. 
• Proofreading project deadlines are usually strict and if you take up more projects than you can deliver on time, you’ll face negative reviews and lose clients.
• If you get easily distracted while working from home, online proofreading jobs aren’t for you as they need you to be focused and pay attention to the piece you’re working on.

Are Online Proofreaders In Demand?

• According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics , the demand for online proofreaders is growing every year. The businesses on the Internet are always on the rise which leads to more demand for content writers and proofreaders. 
• According to a recruiter.com research , the demand for proofreaders and copy markers is expected to go up with around 3510 new jobs by 2029.

13 Well-Paying Online Proofreading Jobs For Beginners

2. ProofreadingServices.com

3. LinkedIn 

4. Polished Paper

5. Wordvice

6. CACTUS Communications

7. Get Editing Jobs

8. Proofreading Pal

9. Managed Editing

10. Book Editing

12. SmartBrief

13. Lionbridge

What Skills Do You Need To Become A Proofreader

• A strong command of the language you’re planning to work with, including spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
• A keen eye for detail and the capacity to concentrate for extended periods of time.
• The ability to work with accuracy and speed.
• Planning, organizing and time management skills are necessary to meet project deadlines.
• Good communication skills to interact with prospective clients and for networking.
• Basic IT skills since you’ll be working from home.
• Familiarity with the methods of production and publishing of books, other printed products, and websites.

How To Prepare For A Proofreading Career?

Proofread your way to success.

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21 Legitimate Proofreading Jobs Sites for Beginners + Tips to Get Started

BIG NEWS! We just released The Freelance Files , a collection of professional done-for-you email scripts, contracts, invoices, and more for smarter freelancing. The first 50 customers, save 50% with this link .

Top 21 Places To Look For Proofreading Jobs

Online proofreading: a lucrative work-from-home job, how much money does a proofreader usually make, becoming a proofreader: what do you need, tools that will come in handy for proofreading jobs, different types of proofreading jobs, pros and cons of being a proofreader, tips on finding proofreading jobs, final words.

Interested to work as a freelance proofreader? You’d be happy to know that prospective freelance proofreading jobs pay well, even at the lowest end of the spectrum. According to Glassdoor, as of June 2020, the lowest base pay is at $34,000/year and the highest is at $66,000/year. This means the average base pay is at $45,222/year.

Not bad, considering you’ll be working from home, or where you’re most comfortable and productive.

Depending on your skills, you can expect to earn within the range specified. You can also use Payscale , a salary comparison research site, to determine your pay rate based on your location.

Overall, working remotely as a freelance proofreader comes with benefits, salary-wise. You just need to find a gig that’s legitimate.

There are plenty of remote job websites that you can use to find proofreading jobs. Having a lot of choices can be a good thing, but you will have to vet these choices one by one and create online profiles on websites that you are not even legit.

Fortunately, we took the liberty of listing 20 legitimate online proofreading job websites that are fit for first-time and long-time online jobseekers. If you learn how you can get freelance clients , getting hired for the job would be easier.

Here are some of the best places with a high chance of landing online proofreading jobs for beginners and pros alike:

Fiverr is one of the best websites for any freelancer, including beginner proofreaders. The pay may not match your expectations, but it is a great place to start acquiring experience.

2. Clickworker

If you are looking for quick jobs, Click Worker has a lot of choices. All you need to do is complete a test and gain access to tons of proofreading jobs once you pass.

3. ProofreadingServices

The best thing about Proofreading Services is the flexible schedule of offered jobs and the salary that ranges from $20 to $40 per hour. Although, getting a high rate may be challenging for beginners.

4. SolidGigs

Why waste hours of your billable time looking for jobs when you can sign up for SolidGigs? SolidGigs does the work for you, sending you the best freelance proofreading jobs every week, so you can get back to doing what you do best.

5. FlexJobs

FlexJobs has many proofreading jobs and other positions that require a similar set of skills. This means you can also explore other projects on top of proofreading. Proofreader gigs vary as full-time, part-time, and temporary.

6. Get Editing Jobs

This community of job seekers and clients offer various editing and writing projects. Proofreading jobs may be scarce, but you can try a different keyword to expand your search.

7. LionBridge

LionBridge requires a skills test to get started, but anyone who is naturally good with grammar can pass.

UpWork has tons of proofreading jobs to offer. However, the screening process is the most challenging part. Make sure you buff up your profile to get a better chance to get in. Once you are in, you will need to spend a little amount of money on “connects” to submit proposals.

9. LinkedIn

LinkedIn is a legitimate social media platform for freelancers and professionals. The more connections you make, the higher the chance you get to land a legitimate proofreading job.

10. Scribendi

Scribendi is a fast-growing editing and proofreading service who are always constantly searching for the best work-from-home proofreaders.

11. Contena

Joining Contena takes only about five minutes of your time. They offer tons of jobs for freelancers who specialize in writing, editing, and proofreading.

Guru is a great website if you want to market yourself for almost any type of job inside and outside of writing.

13. Wordvice

Wordvice is a great website if you want to take academic writing and proofreading projects. Because of their clients from prestigious universities in the US, you can gain quite a lot of academic editing and proofreading experience.

14. Craigslist

Craigslist has a couple of interesting proofreading job posts, depending on your area.

15. Scribbr

Scribbr has a meticulous screening process, but once you pass, you will gain access to tons of proofreading projects.

16. Cactus Communications

If you are looking to make working remotely a full-time job and your main source of income, Cactus Communications will allow you to choose. However, you might need a college degree for this option.

17. Polished Paper

Polished Paper has a reputation for giving higher pay. However, it is quite challenging to get in, especially if you don’t have enough experience. It includes a test and various levels of screening.

18. EditFast

EditFast allows you to create a profile to market yourself to clients. However, the fee is quite pricey but good enough for building your work experience.

19. ProofreadingPal

This website is the perfect option for students enrolled in college. They usually hire students and professionals with a minimum of 3.5 GPA.

20. Freelancer

Freelancer is similar to sites like Fiverr and Upwork. However, the number of proofreading jobs on this site tend to be fewer.

21. Gramlee

Signing up for Gramlee is pretty straightforward. All you need to do is fill out the application form and wait for a response. It is a great company that offers flexible hours and remote proofreading jobs.

If you reached this point in the article, then it means you decided to give proofreading a shot. So let’s go into the details about freelance proofreading.

What is proofreading exactly?

Proofreaders, from the name itself, read and proofread almost any online content. Whether it is a blog post, marketing copy, social media post, or anything else in between, a proofreader ensures that the specific content or draft is bulletproof and ready for publishing.

Sounds simple, right?

It is simple in theory, but this job does require focus. It is a meticulous job that requires patience, the utmost attention to detail, and a good handle on the English language, including an extensive amount of grammar knowledge.

Although you might be confused with the terms “proofreader” and “editor,” they are two completely different things. A proofreader can be an editor, and an editor can also become a proofreader.

Sometimes, writers become their own proofreaders, depending on the job or client. However, having a different pair of eyes to proofread an article is highly recommended due to what is called writers’ blind spots or a writer’s own errors that they failed to spot.

No matter how good a writer is, there may still be lapses in their work. This is where proofreaders come in to look for those gaps.

When a final draft is ready for polishing and preparing the content for publishing, proofreading comes into play.

Whether it is an essay, a transcript, a marketing ad campaign, or anything else in between, a proofreader’s job is to make sure that there are no typos or grammatical errors.

The proofreader also needs to make sure that the content is written in the preferred style set by the client or company.

With that said, proofreaders are essential in most writing processes. It only means that just like writers, proofreading jobs are also in demand for online blogs, marketing, and most other industries.

What does a Copy Editor Do?

Just to provide a clear distinction, a copy editor comes in earlier in the process of writing and proofing an article. They do the bulk of edits needed to improve a draft beyond typos, punctuation, and grammar.

Copy editors are there to make the content clear and consistent, and then makes notes for revision. It is a whole back and forth process between the writer and the editor before the draft makes its way to the proofreader.

Copy editing requires the same skills as a proofreader, so you will most likely see these two terms linked together when you start your online job search.

Proofreading salaries can range from 30k to 50k annually.

It is so much more than a minimum wage, without the hassle of the commute, waking up early, and more.

Just like any other freelance job, proofreading salaries will be based on the amount of work you put in.

My mindset towards freelancing is kind of like a sole proprietorship, where clients come to you to hire your services, as opposed to the conventional job scheme.

Most proofreaders charge per project, word count, or hourly rate, and a beginner proofreader can charge around $10 per hour. This rate can significantly increase, once you have proven your skills and gained enough experience.

Before looking for any work-from-home jobs, one of the most important skills you need to learn is proper time management above anything else.

You might have the right skills that will fit the proofreading job description but, without the ability to manage your time properly, you won’t be as productive.

With a flexible schedule, procrastination is your worst enemy. When working from home, there can be a lot of distractions such as chores, hobbies, and more.

The best tip I can give you if you end up working remotely is to isolate yourself from all the distractions as much as possible. If you can set up your workstation in an isolated area in the house, such as a separate room, it will help a lot with productivity.

Aside from time management, here are some of the most important skills every proofreader should have or acquire:

• Excellent Vocabulary – Any proofreader should have an extensive vocabulary. You can always learn a new word each day and list them down for future use.
• Top-Notch Grammar Skills – Catching spelling errors may be a part of the job, but it does not stop there. You should also know your subject-verb-agreement rules, proper uses of a comma, and most of all, consistency.
• Advanced Writing Knowledge – Some jobs require a certain degree and a higher level of education. You can always take an e-learning course to land a higher-paying proofreading job.
• Attention to Detail – Proofreaders are like quality assurance personnel. They make sure an article or write-up is error-free before publishing, and to catch all the bugs and errors, you will need to be focused and take your time.

Some clients may prefer speed over quality, but make sure you focus on quality and work on a productive workflow later.

Proofreading doesn’t require a high-end computer similar to what will be required for gaming, music production, or graphic design. Still, you must have a stable and reliable setup.

As an online proofreader, you will be working with a lot of confidential documents. Aside from the computer specs, you also need to ensure a safe and secure working environment.

Here are some tools that will almost always come in handy for online proofreaders:

• Grammarly – This proofreading tool can never beat a human proofreader, but it can help a lot in making your copy air-tight. Plus, you can install it as an extension for most word processing software like Microsoft Word, Google Docs, emails, WordPress, and more.

Aside from Grammarly, there are tons of grammar checking tools you can choose from. Other tools that you will need are:

• The Chicago Manual of Style, AP Stylebook, and Mcgraw-Hill’s Proofreading Handbook – These books will help you significantly as a professional proofreader. It contains plenty of useful tips for being a more efficient proofreader.
• Google Docs – Most remote teams use Google Docs, Google Sheets, and other apps included in the Google Suite. Why? Because of its excellent collaboration features. Google Docs allows remote teams to work on the same document in real-time without trading emails or direct messages. Plus, it enables project managers to build a system for tracking the progress of the whole team.

Make sure you set up your Google Drive account because you will most likely need it when you become a proofreader.

As a proofreader, you will be required to proofread many forms of content from emails to PDF files to manuscripts. Because there are so many types of content, you can choose to focus on one or two types.

Although there are differences in writing styles, the main goal will always be polishing and freeing an article from grammatical, punctuation, and structure errors.

Here are some examples of content that you may or may not come across as a proofreader:

• Social Media Content
• Court Transcripts
• User Manuals
• Press Releases
• School Tests
• Restaurant Menus
• Medical Transcriptions
• Newsletters
• Legal Transcriptions, and more

Basically, anything you see written online, in newspapers, magazines, or a cereal box most likely went through the eyes of a proofreader.

So, if you are worried about the demand for this line of work, there is enough work out there for proofreaders and editors around the globe.

While there are many advantages to becoming a proofreader, there are drawbacks as well. Before deciding if you are willing to take this route, make sure you weigh out the pros and cons first.

• You get to work remotely
• The flexible schedule allows you to manage your own time and become your own boss
• You can get online proofreading jobs without investment
• You can choose to become a part-time or full-time proofreader
• There is a chance to get proofreading jobs from home even without experience
• Proofreading is a skill that comes naturally to many
• If you want to make it big, you might need to get a degree or undergo formal training
• Deadlines are strict
• Working from home is very different from working in an office, and might take a little getting used to

If you have decided on what kind of proofreading work you want to do, you can do a little quick online search to have a glimpse of what is out there.

With so many options, you are going to need to put the right search term to get more tailored results. Here are some helpful keywords you can type in your search engine, or one of the websites that I will mention later in the article:

• Proofreader
• Academic Editor
• Book Editor
• Online Proofreading Jobs
• Line Editor

Useful Tip: It is possible to find jobs where you least expect it such as social media groups. You can also join freelance groups on Reddit or Facebook to get help and ideas from the community.

Plus, most clients often resort to Facebook groups when hiring freelancers to avoid third-party fees, which has some advantages and disadvantages. When getting jobs outside of these groups, you will be dealing with unverified strangers that may or may not scam you. It is ideal to draft your own contracts for instances like these.

The only advantage, however, is that you can get paid more without the service fees. So, if you decide to take this route, make sure you check out your potential client’s reputation online and ask around within the community.

So, if you have a knack for correcting other people’s mistakes and have a good command of English spelling and grammar, you can become an online proofreader and get paid for it handsomely.

Online proofreading jobs are everywhere, and it is a great place to start your freelancing and independent contractor business.

Just remember to take the job seriously once you get in, and you will never run out of clients or projects.

Becoming a proofreader is more of a business than a job, so the more work you do, the higher you get paid, ultimately leading you to financial freedom.

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Written by Allan Borch

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Allan Borch is the founder of Dotcom Dollar . With almost 10 years of digital marketing experience, he wants to help entrepreneurs and business owners build and monetize their own successful online business. Connect with him on LinkedIn , Twitter and Youtube .

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21 Best Online Proofreading Jobs For Beginners (Earn $45/hour)

Last updated on 13th March, 2024 at 12:16 am

So your here to find online proofreading jobs ?

Or perhaps you’re still contemplating if this proofreading job is the one for you?

Did that opening sentence make you cringe a bit? Lol…

Mind you. I purposely wrote it that way.

Let me tell you, even Grammarly is giving me a side-eye for not fixing it to “ you’re .”

And my inner introvert keeps telling me, “Just change it already!”

But guess what? I’m rebelling against perfect grammar (at least only for the opening sentence, lol).

So, grammar sleuth. If you’ve got a knack for spotting snazzy mistakes, you’re practically tailor-made for the world of online proofreading jobs .

But let me tell you something, it’s not just about showing off your skills; you can turn your keen eye into some serious cash by offering your proofreading services.

Here’s the fun part – you can earn up to $45 per hour as a proofreader. Plus, you get to call the shots on your schedule and work from literally anywhere .

Sounds like the dream job for introverts, right?

Now, if you’re seriously eyeing this proofreading job or considering starting your own freelance proofreading business, rest assured that the start-up costs for this job are low, making it an accessible option for beginners looking to break into the industry.

Like, Seriously, What Is Proofreading?

The proofreading process, proofreading vs. editing: what sets them apart, weighing the upsides and downsides of being a proofreader:, the best online proofreading jobs for beginners, are proofreaders in demand or just a passing fad, but the real question is… how much money can you rack up from proofreading, what proofreading skills and qualifications do i need, how do i become a proofreader with no experience, what proofreading tools do i need for remote proofreading jobs, is being a proofreader a good job for introverts, does proofreading require a degree, are online proofreading jobs legit, ready to start proofreading jobs from home now.

Proofread Anywhere

In this free workshop, you’ll learn how to become a proofreader and start a freelance proofreading business.

• 24,000+ Students
• 7+ Years of Results

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Imagine proofreading as being the ultimate taste-tester for a mouthwatering dish right before it hits the table.

Your job? Making sure every flavor, spice, and texture come together in a perfect symphony.

You’re the culinary spell-checker, catching those sneaky typos or flavor hiccups that could spoil the feast.

Just like a chef wouldn’t want a dash of salt where it doesn’t belong, you ensure words play their delicious roles without any accidental seasoning.

It’s that final sprinkle of magic before your content is served—pristine, polished, and ready to wow your audience.

Did you know why “you’re” and “your” are two different words? Because “you’re” mine and I’m yours. Lol! TheGeniusCat.com Tweet

Here is what the process of a proofreading job looks like:

Reviewing the text: You start by thoroughly reading the entire text, paying attention to grammar, spelling, and punctuation mistakes.

Correcting errors: Once you identify any errors, you need to make the necessary corrections using the appropriate editing tools or by manually editing the text.

Formatting consistency: You ensure that the formatting of the text is consistent throughout, including headings, font styles, and indentation.

Fact-checking: If any factual information is presented in the text, you verify its accuracy to ensure that it is reliable.

Final review: After making the necessary edits, you go through the text once more to ensure that no errors have been overlooked.

You know, it’s a bit like people confusing pasta with noodles – happens more often than you’d think.

The same mix-up tends to go down between proofreading and editing.

While they are both crucial steps in the writing process, they serve different purposes and require different skill sets.

Let’s take a closer look at the key differences between proofreading and editing.

Proofreading primarily focuses on ensuring the accuracy and correctness of the text. It involves meticulously reviewing the content for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors.

By carefully examining each word and sentence, proofreaders eliminate inconsistencies and improve overall readability.

Editing , on the other hand, goes beyond the surface-level corrections and delves deeper into the content. It involves refining the structure and flow of the text, enhancing clarity, and optimizing the overall coherence.

Editors work on improving the sentence construction, eliminating redundancies, and ensuring the message of the document is effectively conveyed.

Proofreading is a job that comes with its own set of perks and pitfalls. Let’s break down the ups and downs so you can decide if it’s the right fit for you.

Flexible working hours: As a proofreader, you have the flexibility to choose your working hours. This allows you to create a schedule that fits your lifestyle and other commitments.

Work from anywhere: One of the biggest advantages of being a proofreader is the ability to work from anywhere. As long as you have a reliable internet connection, you can work from the comfort of your own home or even while traveling.

Skill development: Consider it as your language workout. Proofreading hones your language skills, sharpens your eye for detail, and kicks your critical thinking into high gear.

Variety: Imagine you are flipping through channels on TV. You’ll have the opportunity to read a wide range of content, from academic papers to marketing materials, keeping things interesting.

Potential for good income: Proofreaders can earn a good income, especially if they establish themselves as experts in their field. With experience and a solid client base, you can increase your rates and earn a substantial income.

Low start-up costs: Unlike other professions, starting a career as a proofreader doesn’t require a significant financial investment. The tools and resources needed are minimal, making it a cost-effective way to enter the world of freelancing.

Isolation: Working alone for long periods might not suit everyone, and there’s limited interaction with colleagues.

Tight deadlines: Proofreading often involves working with tight deadlines, especially when dealing with clients who require quick turnarounds. Meeting these deadlines can sometimes be challenging and may require you to work efficiently under pressure.

Monotony: Proofreading can become repetitive, especially if you’re working on similar types of content day in and day out.

Uncertainty: Freelance proofreading gigs might not always provide a stable income, and finding consistent work can be challenging.

Before you start applying for any of the proofreading jobs I’ve lined up for you, there’s something I would highly recommend you do first: take Caitlin’s free 76-minute workshop on kickstarting your proofreading journey.

Let me tell you – this workshop? It’s a hit for a reason. Trust me, it’s worth every second of your time.

So, do yourself a favor and give it a whirl.

I promise you won’t be disappointed.

Now let’s get straight to the list.

Freelance Websites

If you are a complete beginner and wish to dip your feet into the proofreading world , I would suggest starting with these freelance websites.

Think of them as bustling online marketplaces, connecting you (the talented proofreader) with clients eager to polish their written content.

You get to work on diverse projects, hone your skills, and be your boss, while clients gain the magic touch of your eagle eye.

While these platforms do take a small commission (usually 10-20%), they offer a sweet perk: they handle the marketing legwork, leaving you free to focus on what you do best – perfecting the written word.

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31 Online Proofreading Jobs for Beginners (Up to $35 Per Hour)

*This post may contain affiliate links. Please read the full disclosure here . 

Proofreading Jobs from Home No Experience

Table of Contents

Do you have the skill to correct punctuation and spelling errors?

If yes, then you have what it takes to become an online proofreader with an income potential between $36k-$60k a year.

Online proofreading jobs are in demand, because there is an increase in online content and marketing, which means more job opportunities for proofreaders.

A good number of bloggers and online businesses need help to proofread blogs, books and other digital content. They require a second pair of eyes to check and correct mistakes and edit errors before the article is published and goes live.

There are many online proofreading jobs for beginners who are interested in working either full-time or part-time.

If want to begin online proofreading jobs from home, you will find this to be a flexible work from home option that is not country-specific.

Online Proofreader Job Role

It’s a known fact that businesses and individuals need writing.

Writing covers tons of digital space, from emails to website “About Us” pages to product descriptions to eBooks and more. But what about the rest of the writing process?

Companies don’t just need someone to put pen to paper; they need someone to make sure the writing is clear, clean, and error-free. That’s where proofreaders come in.

Proofreaders make sure that writing is concise and accurate.

It’s great work for a detail-oriented individual who likes a challenge. Knowing what goes into solid proofreading is important, as it lets you earn more and helps you build a stable career.

What is Proofreading?

Proofreading is a vital part of editing.

It’s the process of reading through a piece of writing and marking any errors you find so that they can be fixed before publication.

Proofreading is normally one of the last steps before a piece is published, and it’s used to catch smaller errors that might not have been caught in the initial drafts or developmental edits.

Proofreading jobs require you to take a piece of content written by someone (like a blog post or an email) and make it perfect.

It’s the final stage of editing, which involves correcting grammatical errors like misplaced commas and spelling errors.

Proofreaders look for:

• Simple grammar mistakes like improper spelling or punctuation errors.
• Strange sentence structure or word choice which makes the writing hard to read.
• Factual inconsistencies or small plot holes.

Catching and fixing these errors adds polish to pieces and gets them ready for professional publication.

It can make the work appear more authoritative and trustworthy, which is especially important to businesses and individuals looking to be seen as experts on a particular topic.

Here are a few types of online content that require proofreading:

• Blogs/websites
• eBooks, novels
• Email Newsletters
• Online Marketing Material – advertisements and brochures
• Social Media Posts
• Essay editing
• Research papers
• Resumes and cover letters

How Do You Make Money Proofreading?

While some publishing companies will hire in-house proofreaders, most people who make money from proofreading are freelancers.

Freelancers work on a project-by-project basis with a variety of clients; they aren’t full-time employees of a particular agency, and instead, work for themselves.

Getting started as a freelance proofreader is as simple as signing up for a job listing site (or multiple sites) and putting together a proofreading resume, which should focus on your experience and expertise with the English language.

In today’s post we will be taking a look at some proofreading companies that offer online proofreading jobs for beginners.

These sites let companies post listings for individual projects or longer-term contracts that you can apply to work on remotely.

Do You Need Qualifications to Become a Proofreader?

Since proofreading is often done on a freelance basis, there’s no one set of qualifications a proofreader needs to start working in the field.

Findings on Indeed suggest that proofreaders should be proficient in various academic writing styles, as well as familiar with editing software like Adobe Acrobat and Microsoft Word.

Many employers will administer their own proofreading competency tests to applicants, which on its own is enough to get many entry-level proofreading jobs.

How Do You Become a Proofreader?

If you are good with the red marker and can spot errors easily, you are halfway there.

The next half requires you to learn about the proofreading industry, how to run a proofreading business from home and to land clients.

For that I would recommend you take a look at this online training – Proofread Anywhere . It teaches you everything you need to become a proofreader.

Don’t forget to check out this free online proofreading workshop , so you can learn to use your word skills to make money from home.

How Much Do Online Proofreaders Make Per Hour as a Beginner?

According to Salary.com , the hourly rate for entry-level proofreaders are $20 an hour, the average pay rate is $26 an hour and the highest level of pay is $33 an hour.

So, a proofreader with no experience can still expect to make at least $20 an hour, making it more lucrative than many entry-level jobs.

Read our interview with a stay-at-home mom earning $1,000+/month with Proofread Anywhere’s online training .  

How to Land Entry Level Proofreading Jobs Online

Caitlin Pyle, creator and owner of Proofread Anywhere , has created a comprehensive online training suitable for aspiring proofreaders with no proofreading background or experience.

She has taught over 15,000 students in the last 7 years to become online proofreaders.

If you would like a taster session, feel free to watch Caitlin’s introductory video on proofreading, to see if this is the career  you are interested to pursue.

Proofread Anywhere’s online training teaches:

• How to proofread research papers, blogs and books
• Everything you need to know about proofreading
• How to find potential prospects
• Avoid common mistakes made by beginner proofreaders
• Practical step-by-step lessons
• Everything from basics to marketing!

The training also gives you access to a support team and a student community to help provide guidance and answer question as a new proofreader. 

For proofreaders not knowing where to start, this would be the best way to land entry level proofreading jobs online, with support and assistance to help you along the way.

Check out Cailtin’s free online video workshop to understand how to start and run a proofreading business at home.

31 Legitimate Online Proofreading jobs from home

The first few on the list are entry-level online proofreading jobs, while the options further down are for more experienced proofreaders.

While these are just some places to find remote proofreading jobs, social media and networking can land you more gigs. Joining Facebook blogger groups can help you connect with online business owners – a great way to network and find clients.

Let’s now take a look at these proofreading jobs that you can do either part-time or as a full time career.

1. Click Worker

At Click Worker, you get to work on a freelance basis in content creation, proofreading, editing or app testing. With the freedom to work whenever you like, this can be a flexible work at home job for stay at home moms.

Payments to you are made by PayPal either weekly or monthly.

Upwork is one of the best online platforms to find any type of freelance work, including proofreading jobs. 

They offer both short term and long term projects that can last up to 6 months.

Glancing at Upwork, you will see the pay rate for proofreaders are $16-$30 an hour. Definitely a worth checking out Upwork.

Fiverr is the best place to search for online proofreading jobs for beginners.

While the pay can be on the low scale, this makes a good starting point for entry-level proofreading to find work and experience.

Another freelance job board when you can use their search box to narrow down results for online proofreading jobs.

At Guru, jobs are offered at a fixed price or an hourly rate.

5. We Work Remotely

Offering a number of writing and copyediting jobs, We Work Remotely is another site to keep track, when searching for remote jobs.

6. Lionbridge

Lionbridge offer proofreading jobs online. Most of their job openings have very basic requirements which include a high school diploma.

7. Clear Voice

Clear Voice offers freelance proofreading jobs that hire worldwide.

The type of jobs they have available range from writing to proofreading. You get the opportunity to work as a freelancer, following a flexible work schedule.

Payments are made to you weekly or monthly by PayPal.

8. Polished Paper

To apply for an opportunity with Polished Paper, you will need to submit an application form and upload your resume. And the final stage is a 35 questionnaire editor test.

9. Kirkus Media

They are looking for freelance book reviewers in English and Spanish.

Reviews need to be 350 words and due 2 weeks after the book is assigned. Submit some of your writing samples to increase your chance of being accepted.

10. Babbletype

The criteria for eligibility is that you are a native English speaker with a fluency in English and basic grammar knowledge.

They pay weekly via PayPal and is a great place to start for beginner proofreaders.

11. Proofreadingservices.com

Pay is between $19-$46 an hour and you can apply from any country.

You will need to complete a 20-minute preliminary test to begin the application process. They have both full-time and part-time work opportunities.

12. Get Editing

They offer freelance editing and proofreading jobs.

If you sign up to their email listing, you will receive weekly new job openings in your inbox.

13. Writing Jobz

Writing Jobz offer a wide range of work for writers such as copywriting, essay writing and proofreading.

With over 100 jobs posted daily on a variety of topics, Writing Jobz can be the best place for freelancers to find proofreading work.

14. Ubiqus On Demand

Primarily a job site for transcriptionists, Ubiqus also offer jobs for proofreaders and copywriters.

15. Cambridge Proofreading

They are actively recruiting remote academic editors.

A bachelor’s degree is a minimum requirement due to the academic nature of the work.

You can expect to be proofreading and editing a wide range of materials but predominantly dissertations and theses from ESL students and academics.

Typical rates of pay are $20-30 per hour, depending on your editing speed.

16. Domainite Editing Jobs

You can apply by filling out an online application form. They require you to edit a sample as part of the application process.

17. Gramlee Jobs

Their website accepts clients that need editing completed within 24 hours. 

This means there is constant work coming in through the door – more opportunity for you. You can submit your application form right here .

18. Edit Fast

Edit Fast offers part-time proofreading jobs from home.

They will send you notifications when there is potential work available from clients, so you need to sign up with them to be notified.

19. English Trackers

They have a job board directory that you can check regularly to see if there is a suitable job vacancy.

You can also sign up with them to get weekly job listings delivered to your inbox.

20. eCorrectors

Whether you are a professional proofreader or a translator, you can apply with eCorrector. Just email them your resume to be eligible.

They occasionally hire proofreaders and freelance editors. Good to check them out to see if they are hiring.

You can choose to work either full time or as a freelance proofreader. If you see a job that doesn’t suit you, subscribe to get email alerts to be notified of new job openings.

They have been on the top 20 list of the best telecommuting jobs by Forbes in 2016.

To apply you need to have a degree in the subjects listed here.  Prior editing experience is not necessary but can be an advantage.

24. ProofreadingPal

They require you to have a minimum of 5 years of work experience and you can earn up to $3,000 a month.

If you are eligible to apply, there is an online independent contractor form that needs to be completed and you should hear back from them within 5-10 business days.

25. Scribbr

Scribbr offers a wide range of essay editing jobs online.

They provide work from home proofreading jobs with a flexible schedule – accept/decline job offers according to your preference.

You will also need to be a native English speaker and be available for work at least 10 hours a week.

If you are interested in editing papers online – try Scribbr.

26. Wordvice

You need to be a qualified and experienced freelance editor to apply.

They don’t specify how many years of experience is needed, although typical work involves editing research articles, thesis, and essays.

27. Sibia Proofreading

Currently not accepting new applications. But be sure to check back to apply.

28. Proofread Now

They require you to have a minimum of 5 years of work experience to apply. You can sign up to their newsletter to be notified of new job openings.

29. Words RU

They are looking for highly qualified proofreaders from any country. They are currently hiring, so you can apply if you meet their requirements.

30. Scribendi

Experience is required for editors and proofreaders to apply.

31. Managed Editing

You will need to have a college degree and at least 5 years of editing experience in order to apply.

How to Find Online Proofreading Jobs?

If you are looking for freelance proofreading jobs on a large platform, here are a couple of places you can find work.

Freelancing is a great way for entry level proofreaders to build a portfolio.

While searching for a job, apart from using online proofreading companies, also browse the internet using keywords such as editing jobs, copy editing jobs, or remote proofreading jobs to broaden your search results.

Job boards:

Job board directories are also great to find new jobs on a regular basis. Because of their massive reach and database, you have more jobs to choose from, with new vacancies added frequently. Here are two of the biggest websites that hire remote workers.

• People Per Hour
• Pro Blogger
• Virtual Vocations

Start your own website

If you want to ride solo and be your own boss, the best thing to do is to  start your own website .

It costs less than $100 a year to have your own site, which you can use to promote your proofreading services.

You can set your own rates, offer discounted pricing and also provide special offers on certain services.

Create a blog section on your website to showcase samples of your work. You can also post reviews of customer satisfaction on your site.

How do you promote your work?

It’s great when you own your business, but the big question is where can you find clients especially if you are just getting started?

• Start a Facebook page and promote it to family and friends. Word of mouth is the best way to get started as a beginner.
• You can share your services on relevant Facebook groups.
• My best option is Pinterest. It can get the word out a lot faster. You can create pin images of your website and direct readers from Pinterest to site. Here is a more detailed post on how you can do this.

Enroll in Caitlin’s FREE proofreading workshop to see if this is the right career for you.

3 simple ways to tell if proofreading is for you..

• Are you good at catching typos and misplaced punctuation ?
• Do you often correct texts on social media?
• Cringe when a restaurant menu has a misspelled word?

Want to explore further?

Use your proofreading skills to branch out into these 4 online editing jobs that are also high paying.

• Transcription – As a transcriber, you will need to convert a set of live or pre-recorded audio files into text. You can put your proofreading skills to use in this career, as it requires you to type out an error-free document.  Transcribers earn up to $45,000 a year.
• Freelance writing  – Every writer needs their content to be proofread, and as a proofreader, you are going to be able to spot errors instantly. You can offer your writing service on freelance websites or on blogs and websites. Highlighting your proofreading skills will land you high paying gigs, and give you higher chances of being accepted.
• Blogging – Start your own website and put your writing skills to use. There are many bloggers making a 6 figure income working from home, blogging.
• Sell a book  – As a proofreader, you will be able to create an error-free book. You can consider this option if you are looking to make a passive income from home. 

Get Paid to Proofread Online

Proofreading for money is a relatively simple field to break into.

As long as you’re able to prove your mastery of the language, give consistent work of high quality, and manage your own schedule, finding proofreading jobs from home is a great way to earn money on your own schedule.

If you are happy to edit papers for money, this is definitely the career to consider.

Online Proofreading Jobs

17 comments.

Great info! Thanks for sharing!

Thanks Brittany!

Thanks for such a gorgeous piece of information. I am new in this world and want to start an online job. But I don’t know how to do. Pls tell me how to join/ start. I did PhD in textiles and apparel designing. This site gives me a inspiration. Thank you once again for such sincere effort.

Thank you for the great info it helps a lot specially on my part I’m a newbie in this and don’t have any idea what kind of work is proofreading. Thank you thank you

Thanks for such a gorgeous piece of information. I am new in this world and want to start an online job. But I don’t know what to do. This site gives me a inspiration. Thank you once again for such sincere effort.

I want to become a reviewer of books

Wow that’s a really great list, so many companies, I didn’t know that there is so many who can hire you. Definitely saving this list : )

Great info, Awesome content , thanks for sharing.

Great content, I’ll be trying some of those things out, thanks a lot

Thank you so much for your very helpful info , which is of great assistance for me , it is somewhat difficult for a person who spent much of his life as a regular full time employee . Thank you again .

Your blog is very informative for a person who has punctuation correction skills but they don’t have an idea about proofreading but they are seeking for a job. I found your blog very helpful. Thanks!

Very informative.Thank you for sharing.More power and God bless!!!

Nice. How can I register. I need a link please

The link for 7. Clear Voice opens to Click Worker.

Thanks Brittany, I have updated the link.

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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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What is expected of a professional proofreader and how to become one

English aficionado? Check. Manically meticulous? Double check. Spots typographical missteps on anything with a printed word? Check, check, check. Sounds like you have a promising career as a proofreader, buddy.

Not sure? Check out what one veteran proofreader says about a career combing through text, and then decide.

Also on Mediabistro

So, what exactly does a proofreader do?

People often confuse a proofreader with a copy editor . And who could blame them? The two are practically kissing cousins.

But there is a significant distinction: a proofreader ensures content is error-free. The job is done when a piece is free of even minor errors and has clear readability. There’s no rewriting and revising involved—at least, there shouldn’t be.

Corrections at the sentence and word level (should) have been made before the text lands in the proofreader’s lap.

“I see proofreading as reading a proof—analyzing it on a visual and content level for final changes after it’s evolved through its stages of revision,” said Mary Emma Koles , owner and founder of online editing company ink200, and owner and director of SpiderSmart Learning Centers, which offer lessons and workshops in editing, writing, and other areas.

A proofreader ensures content is free of typographical, grammatical, spelling, punctuation, syntax, formatting, and other errors.

This person notices the extra space after a period, the “their” when it should be “they’re,” and the compound adjective missing a hyphen.

The job is all about tweaking the syntax and diction in a piece to ensure the most fluid, original projection of the content possible, explained Koles.

What skills does a proofreader need?

“Patience for the tediousness that comes with fine-tuning every single aspect of every single word and line,” advised Koles . “Precision for the fine-tuning required in revising word-to-word, sentence-to-sentence, and paragraph-to-paragraph; and originality for the creativity each client deserves during every phase of revision.”

You should also be familiar with a style guide or two.

What about digital skills?

If you’re working on website content like blog posts, hyperlinking is important. But for pretty much everything else, knowing your way around Microsoft Word—get to know track changes—suffices, Koles said.

What does it take to excel as a proofreader?

The eyes of a hawk and an insane mastery of the English language, grammar, and punctuation.

Is this more of a freelance position, or do companies keep a proofreader on staff?

In general, landing a job is all about connections and what opportunities arise because of them.

“Some are serendipitous; others are hard-earned,” said Koles . “Freelance and consistent positions alike are out there for the taking; it’s all a matter of seeking new avenues to editing work and—of course—doing an exceptional job with every single piece you are given to polish and perfect!”

Who is a proofreader’s supervisor?

You’ll likely be checking in with an editor.

How can I break into proofreading?

Proofread your friends’ stuff (e.g., resumes, college essays) to get your feet wet.

Prepare a portfolio to show off your work. Then, try landing an editorial job that involves polishing prose at a smaller publication, publishing house, or website.

As with all jobs these days, having a basic competence across a variety of disciplines will make it easier to get hired. A good understanding of the copyediting process will help your proofreading prospects.

Proofreading tools and services in professional writing

Content has exploded in the digital age. Academic papers, manuscripts, and social media posts are omnipresent; proofreading tools have transcended from mere options to essential needs.

These tools, integral to online proofreading platforms, represent the final opportunity for writers to polish their work. They ensure the text is free from errors and inconsistencies—a crucial last step before any piece reaches the public eye.

Beyond automated tools, professional proofreaders bring expertise honed by certifications in various style guides such as APA , CMS , and AP . This combination of human skill and technological precision elevates proofreading, ensuring excellence in every written piece.

These proofreading services are not just about error checking; they play a pivotal role in preserving the originality of content. With plagiarism being a major concern in academic and professional writing, online proofreaders double as guardians of originality, safeguarding the writer’s integrity.

This is particularly vital for dissertations and other scholarly works where the authenticity of the author’s own work is paramount. Similarly, in professional tasks like email communication and LinkedIn articles, these tools ensure clarity and originality, underscoring the importance of authenticity in every word crafted.

The evolution and future of proofreading in the digital age

The scope of proofreading today extends far beyond traditional manuscripts and academic papers. In the era of social media, where platforms like LinkedIn dominate professional communication, the need for flawless writing is more pronounced than ever. Here, proofreading is a technical necessity and a key element in personal branding and professional representation.

As we look to the future, integrating AI into proofreading tools promises a significant evolution in the field. AI’s learning capabilities offer the potential for more context-aware proofreading, capable of handling various writing styles and formats with enhanced nuance.

Yet, this technological advancement doesn’t diminish the importance of professional proofreaders. Instead, it complements their expertise, allowing them to concentrate on the more subtle nuances of language and style.

The demand for precision in writing is only growing, and the collaboration between human expertise and AI efficiency is set to redefine the landscape of proofreading. This blend of traditional knowledge and cutting-edge technology is shaping a dynamic future for the field, where ensuring stylistic consistency and navigating the complexities of various forms of writing becomes more efficient and effective.

Dotting the I’s and Crossing the T’s: Your Proofreading Pathway

So, is your inner grammar guru ready to leap into the meticulous world of proofreading? It’s a universe where your obsession with missing commas isn’t just accepted – it’s celebrated. Imagine a career where your keen eye for the stray apostrophe or the elusive typo isn’t just a quirky trait but your superpower.

Remember, proofreading isn’t just about catching mistakes and grammatical errors; it’s about ensuring that every piece of text you touch reads like a well-oiled machine – smooth, efficient, and error-free. It’s a crucial final step in publishing, a silent guardian of grammar and style.

Whether you’re fine-tuning resumes or refining the next bestseller, each corrected error is a testament to your skill and an essential contribution to clear communication.

So, gather your style guides, sharpen your red pens (or ready your track changes feature), and prepare to embark on a journey that turns your love for language into a fulfilling career. In the world of words, proofreaders are the unsung heroes – and it sounds like you’re ready to join their ranks. Happy proofreading!

To find your next proofreading role, head to our media job board !

FAQs on Career Opportunities and Skills in Proofreading

Q: what is the job of a proofreader.

A: A proofreader’s job is to carefully review written content for errors in grammar, spelling, punctuation, and formatting. They ensure that the content is accurate, consistent, and free of any mistakes before it is published or printed.

Q: What is the main difference between a proofreader and a copy editor?

A: A proofreader focuses on ensuring content is free of punctuation errors without rewriting or revising, whereas a copy editor may engage in more substantial editing, including rephrasing and restructuring text.

Q: What are the key skills required to be a successful proofreader?

A: Essential skills include attention to detail, patience, precision, a strong grasp of grammar and punctuation, and familiarity with style guides.

Q: Can proofreading skills be beneficial in digital content creation?

A: Absolutely. Proofreading skills are crucial in digital content creation to ensure accuracy and professionalism in website content, blogs, and other online publications.

Q: What digital skills should a proofreader have?

A: Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Google Docs, particularly with track changes, and knowledge of hyperlinking if working on website content, are important digital skills for a proofreader.

Q: Is proofreading primarily a freelance role or an in-house position?

A: Proofreading can be both a freelance and an in-house position, depending on the opportunities available and connections in the industry.

Q: What are the first steps to becoming a proofreader?

A: Begin by proofreading for friends, creating a portfolio of your work, and seeking entry-level editorial jobs to gain experience. A good understanding of copyediting can also enhance proofreading prospects.

Q: How does one excel in a proofreading career?

A: Excelling in proofreading requires a keen eye for detail, strong command of the English language, and the ability to meticulously review and correct text at a granular level.

Q: Who typically supervises a proofreader in a professional setting?

A: In most professional settings, a proofreader is supervised by an editor who oversees the publication process.

Q: How important is familiarity with style guides in proofreading?

A: It’s very important. Being familiar with various style guides is essential for ensuring consistency and accuracy in formatting and style across different types of content.

Q: What kind of texts do proofreaders commonly work on?

A: Proofreaders work on a diverse range of texts, including books, articles, website content, resumes, and academic essays, ensuring each is error-free and well-presented.

Q: Can proofreading skills contribute to career advancement in other fields?

A: Yes, a good proofreader develops valuable skills in many fields, particularly those requiring clear and precise communication, such as writing, copy editing, publishing, marketing, and legal professions.

Q: How does understanding punctuation enhance a proofreader’s ability to edit manuscripts?

A: Understanding punctuation is crucial for a proofreader as it ensures clarity and correct syntax in manuscripts, enabling the content to convey its intended meaning accurately and professionally.

Q: What role does grammar play in maintaining clarity and originality in proofreading?

A: Grammar is fundamental in proofreading for maintaining clarity and originality, as it helps structure sentences correctly, ensuring the text is understandable, engaging, and free from ambiguity or plagiarism.

Q: Can AI-assisted proofreaders effectively detect and correct plagiarism in academic writing?

A: Yes. AI-assisted proofreaders are equipped with advanced algorithms to detect and correct plagiarism, ensuring academic writing is original and adheres to ethical standards.

Q: How important is a proofreader’s role in email communication for professional syntax and clarity?

A: A proofreader plays a vital role in email communication by ensuring syntax is correct and the message is clear, which is essential for professional, effective, and error-free communication.

Q: What are the benefits of using a proofreader familiar with APA style for academic manuscript editing?

A: A proofreader familiar with APA style ensures that academic manuscripts adhere to specific formatting and citation guidelines, enhancing the document’s credibility and academic integrity.

Q: How does a proofreader contribute to the clarity and precision of syntax in editing texts?

A: A proofreader enhances the clarity and precision of syntax by meticulously examining sentence structures, ensuring that the text is coherent, fluent, and effectively communicates the intended message.

Q: In what ways can proofreaders make corrections to improve the overall readability of a manuscript?

A: Proofreaders improve manuscript readability by making targeted corrections in grammar, punctuation, syntax, and style, thereby enhancing the flow, coherence, and engagement of the text for the reader.

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The Work at Home Wife

Helping you work at home and make money online

Online Proofreading Jobs For Beginners

By Angie Nelson

Last Updated November 7, 2020 . Disclosure: We may receive compensation if you sign up for or purchase products linked below. Details on offers may change, and you should confirm them with the company prior to taking action.

INSIDE: Proofreading jobs are one of the easiest ways to earn money from home if you enjoy correcting grammatical errors. Learn all about this career opportunity and discover if it’s for you!

Are you quick to pick up grammatical errors and spelling mistakes in the things you read?

Do you know where to insert commas and where to leave them out? Are you confident with APA, MLA, or CLM style guides?

If you answered a resounding yes to these questions, you might be a candidate for a great proofreading job.

If you’ve looked for information about working from home, you’ve probably run across online proofreading jobs. Many people want more information about this type of gig because they have a solid command of the language and know how to recognize punctuation errors.

If you’ve ever wondered if you’d be a good proofreader, keep reading to see if you have what it takes to build a proofreading career.

What Is Proofreading?

• Writers have already finished the prewriting stage with brainstorming sessions and research.
• The content and structure have been developed during the writing or drafting phase.
• Then the content has been revised and any major errors in organization or flow have been corrected with the editor.
• Now the piece is ready for copy editing.
• Proofreading is the final stage.

What is Proofreading?

During the proofreading stage, it’s time to polish the content and prepare it for publication. This final step includes looking for and correcting typographical mistakes, grammatical errors and style preferences.

Anyone who produces content may have a need for a proofreader. This includes bloggers, small businesses, and large companies.

Though some people and companies choose to do their own proofreading, many bring in help for this phase of the process. They want to ensure everything they publish has a second set of eyes on it to ensure it is error-free.

When working as a freelance proofreader, you may be asked to proofread anything from social media updates to emails and blog posts to books. Many proofreaders choose to focus on one main type of content. Examples include:

• Student essays
• Court transcripts
• Online articles and blog posts
• Legal transcription
• Medical transcription
• Self-published novels
• User manuals
• Restaurant menus
• Press releases
• Newsletters

You may also choose to work with a specific type of client, providing all of their proofreading needs. Your client focus could be:

• Coaches/Consultants
• Court reporters
• Real estate agents
• Restaurants
• Local brick-and-mortar businesses

What is Copy Editing?

In addition to basic proofreading, you may be interested in copy editing. This type of editing is more in-depth. Copy editors often suggest larger changes to a draft or manuscript.

These recommendations go beyond grammar and punctuation, and they deal with things such as clarity, consistency, and brevity.

Copy editors might specialize in a particular type of work (such as self-published authors of any genre) or in a particular field or industry (such as technical manuals for software companies).

Copy editing typically happens before proofreading, which serves as a final check before publication.

Benefits of Working From Home as a Proofreader

Here’s a brief overview of the benefits of working as a remote proofreader. Many of these will be covered in more detail further down in the post.

Freelance proofreading jobs often provide flexibility. In many cases, your assigned work can be completed at any time of the day or night, as long as you meet your client’s deadlines.

That means you may be able to proofread as a side-hustle in addition to your regular 9-to-5 job. It can also be a great fit for moms who are trying to earn some income while staying home with their kids.

Unlike with many work-at-home opportunities, you don’t necessarily need a desktop computer to succeed. There are people making money by proofreading on other devices, such as a laptop or tablet . Technological advances have made it incredibly easy to share files around the world.

Because you’ll typically be working with text files instead of videos, you don’t need the extra-fast internet connection that many other at-home jobs require.

As long as your clients don’t have any specific requirements for internet speed, this remote job is a good fit for people with satellite or other non-wired DSL internet options. So freelance proofreading is a viable option if you live in a small town or out in the boonies.

In addition to not needing great internet, you also don’t need a dedicated phone line. You won’t need a printer, a headset, or any other special equipment. Of course, you may want some for your own workflow (such as a portable keyboard if you’re using a tablet), but they aren’t required.

As an added bonus, online proofreading work is plentiful. Tons of content creators are looking for people to polish their work.

How Much Do Remote Proofreading Jobs Pay?

As with many online jobs, proofreading pay rates run the gamut from very little to very lucrative. Proofreading tends to pay less than freelance writing jobs .

Glassdoor reported an average annual salary of $44,000 in January 2020. The number can be higher or lower depending on your specialty and experience.

But you typically won’t have a guaranteed salary  as a remote proofreader. That’s because proofreading pay is usually production-based. You’ll rarely be offered an hourly wage. Instead, you’ll be paid by the number of pages you proof.

How Flexible Are the Hours for At-Home Proofreaders?

As mentioned above, flexibility is one of the biggest perks of proofreading. More often than not, it’s a deadline-driven opportunity, as opposed to being on the clock for a specific number of hours. As long as you can meet your deadlines, it doesn’t matter when you do the work.

In many cases, you won’t need to punch a time clock. You just do the work when you can, and ensure it’s finished and submitted by the deadline. As you gain experience, you will naturally become faster, which helps increase the amount you can earn.

However, if you’re a proofreader in a traditional office setting for a company, you might have a specific schedule.

The other caveat to the flexibility of proofreading is that, depending on the type of clients you have, you might need to turn your projects around quickly. You might receive a document to proofread and have to return it the next day, for example. This isn’t always the case, but it’s definitely an element of the job for many proofreaders.

Being able to manage your time well is essential, even for flexible work such as proofreading. If you constantly procrastinate, you’ll start missing deadlines.

What Proofreading Skills Do You Need?

In addition to being able to manage your time well, you need some specific skills to succeed as a proofreader.

Qualified proofreaders need a great vocabulary and top-notch grammar skills. Proofreading isn’t just catching spelling errors. You also need to know proper comma usage, subject-verb agreement, and standard proofreading marks, for example.

Some employers require freelance proofreaders to have a college degree. Others simply want proofreading experience. If you don’t have either, you can reach out to small businesses or online publications to offer your services to gain some referrals and/or testimonials.

To work for a large content producer or news-centric website, you may need more advanced skills.

Many professional organizations and content mills follow AP Stylebook guidelines. The Chicago Manual of Style is another popular style manual being used by many digital publications. If you want to proof academic papers for students, in some instances you need to use the MLA Style Manual.

What Tools Do You Need?

Proofreading is one of the great online jobs that can be done from just about anywhere and on just about any device. Work on your tablet , if you like. A few proofreading tools may make your life easier, however.

• Google Docs Many online proofreading jobs are done via Google Docs, which allows for a markup procedure and the ability to add comments to an original document. Documents can also be shared easily online.
• Dropbox is another great option for sharing documents with clients who prefer to use Microsoft Word or another word processor.
• Grammarly is a fabulous proofreading tool for spotting grammar and spelling mistakes. The free version lets you check WordPress and social media, but you need a premium account for Microsoft Office products and Google Docs. It can be a huge time-saver, however! It can even make suggestions for sentence structure and writing style. But it won’t catch everything. And it’ll make some recommendations that just don’t work for a particular piece of content. That means you can’t rely on Grammarly to do your proofreading job. It’s a helpful tool, but it’s not a set of human eyes.
• McGraw-Hill’s Proofreading Handbook is a must-have for the aspiring proofreader as well as the professional proofreader. It has a lot of great tips and tools to make your proofreading process and business run more efficiently.
• Don’t forget to pick up The Chicago Manual of Style and AP Stylebook , which we mentioned earlier.

How to Find Work as an Online Proofreader

There are several ways to search for proofreading work, and the way you pick should be determined by the type of work you want to do.

If you want to freelance, you’ll need to actively market yourself. If you want to work for a company, you’ll mostly be responding to positions posted on various online job boards. And sometimes, you’ll find a freelance proofreading job by searching the internet.

Here are some common search terms and keywords you can use to find editing jobs and companies:

• proofreader/proofreading
• editor/editing
• copy editor
• line editor
• academic editor
• book editor

You’ll also want to include the typical keywords that are used for at-home positions:

• home office
• telecommute
• contract/contractor

The bulk of your interview process will involve proving your proofreading skill by taking editing tests . You may be given a small sample and asked to proof it.

This type of work is very much performance-based. It will certainly help if you have an engaging personality, but you won’t be hired if you can’t perform well on an editing test.

If you go the freelance route working for individuals, you’ll probably come up against fewer editing tests, so you’ll need to be ready to prove yourself in other ways. The best way is with your testimonials from happy clients.

You can plan to do a couple of free or low-paid gigs in exchange for a testimonial, if you don’t have any.

Who Hires Online Proofreaders?

Many sites regularly hire online proofreaders:

• American Journal Experts hires editors with expert backgrounds to proofread manuscripts of non-native English speakers.
• Babbletype is a transcription company that frequently looks for skilled proofreaders and editors. New assignments post at 6 p.m. EST. You can view what’s available and choose your assignments. You then have 22 hours to complete your assignments.
• Book Editing Associates hires copy editors, proofreaders, and publishing consultants. Candidates need more than five years of editing experience.
• CACTUS Global offers specialized editing and proofreading services and likes its freelancers to have a bachelors or masters degree, a PhD, or expertise in one or more specialized subject areas in physical sciences and engineering, health care, life sciences, medicine and surgery, or social sciences. An experienced proofreader can earn $1,200 to $3,000 per month plus bonuses.
• dotdash occasionally hires freelance copy editors.
• Domainite pays ridiculously low rates, but it may be a place to test the waters to see if proofreading is really for you.
• Edit 911 is looking for proofreaders with a PhD in English.
• EditFast requires a degree from a recognized university and some experience.
• Editor Live hires editors to proof academic and business papers, with a tight turnaround time ranging from three to 72 hours. It says that on average its editors earn $750 to $1,800 every two weeks.
• Enago hires editors for academic papers. The requirements are high. You need a master’s, a PhD or postdoctoral research experience in addition to academic editing experience, and you must be a member of an acclaimed editing association.
• English Trackers hires experienced academic editors.
• Gramlee has a unique application process. It charges clients two cents per word and doesn’t disclose how much of that will be your cut.
• Kibin didn’t have any proofreader jobs the last time we checked, but you can sign up for notifications.
• Lifetips offers salary plus full medical benefits.
• Net Transcripts is a company always on the hunt for legal and general transcribers. It also needs transcription proofreaders from time to time.
• Polished Paper contracts only with “exceptional editors” who pass their 35-question test.
• Prompt allows you to get paid for proofreading college admission essays. Pay starts at $20 per hour.
• ProofreadingPal offers editing services for all types of documents. It’s looking for proofreaders currently enrolled in college with a minimum 3.5 GPA or graduates with five years of experience.
• proofreadingservices.com doesn’t list any experience requirements, but you’ll be required to complete a 20-minute proofreading test.
• Reedsy is a site that works with authors. This is more of a freelance marketplace. The company takes 10% of your earnings as their fee for using their service.
• Scribbr is hiring freelance editors with many native languages – English included. A Scribbr editor needs a bachelor’s degree and must commit to at least 10 hours per week.
• Scribe Media is hiring freelance “scribes.” This role comes with a side of writing in addition to editing.
• Scribe Writing used to be known as Book in a Box. Proofreaders here work on a book project from start to finish, which can take up to four months. The company didn’t have any openings at the time we updated this post, but you can check back.
• Scribendi asks for three years’ experience and a university degree.
• WordFirm ‘s ManagedEditing prefers five years’ experience and a degree.
• Words R U requires a masters, PhD or equivalent experience in an academic discipline. It prefers candidates with English as a Second Language (ESL) experience. The company is currently seeking academic editors, technical/science editors, and business materials editors who are available to work on the weekends.
• Wordvice requires a graduate degree and two years of proofreading experience.

FlexJobs is an online job board that lists only researched telecommute positions. It’s well worth the small investment, and you’ll find leads for all types of work-at-home jobs, including proofreading.

What If You Don’t Have a Degree? Is There Training for At-Home Proofreading Jobs?

You may have noticed that many of the websites listed above require a bachelor’s degree or even a PhD. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t have a college degree or certificate.

With proofreading becoming so freelancer-heavy, you don’t necessarily need an impressive resume full of proofreading work to be able to find freelance gigs. What you do need are testimonials. A track record of happy clients will go a long way toward selling yourself when you’re freelancing.

Caitlin Pyle of Proofread Anywhere has two very popular proofreading courses  that can help you get started creating your own successful business.

The General Proofreading Theory and Practice course is a great place to start. It helps you turn your proofreading abilities into cash.

You’ll learn about the skills you need to succeed, how to enter the job market as a proofreader, and how to turn your skills into a business. There’s an entire module dedicated to looking for proofreading jobs. The course comes with practice worksheets, so you can put what you’ve learned into action.

Proofread Anywhere also offers a course called Transcript Proofreading: Theory and Practice. While the first course is great for general proofreading jobs, this one is more specialized. With it, you’ll learn how to build an at-home career as a transcript proofreader.

What Is Transcript Proofreading?

Transcripts are a written version of content that was originally produced in another medium. For instance, medical transcripts are taken from doctors’ audio notes. Court transcripts are a written record of attorneys’ spoken arguments and the decisions of the judge.

A transcript proofreader reads the transcript and proofs it. Because of specialized language, transcription services require more in-depth training. There’s also punctuation that’s specific to transcripts.

Pyle’s course covers all this. Additionally, there’s plenty of markup practice. You’ll have 3,120 pages through 50 practice transcripts. This helps prepare you for the actual job of a transcription proofreader.

At the end of the course, an instructor-graded exam ensures you’ve learned the material you need. There are other exams throughout the course, along with worksheets, handouts, videos, tutorials, and text.

Transcript Proofreading: Theory and Practice is broken down into four levels. You are required to score a certain amount on each level before moving on. This helps ensure that you’ve mastered the material and are indeed ready to find transcription jobs  by the time you finish. Since you pay for each level as you move on, you don’t have to invest tons of money in the course if you decide it isn’t for you.

If you’re looking to get started as a proofreader and you don’t have an English degree, I highly recommend either of Pyle’s Proofread Anywhere courses.

How to Qualify to Be a Proofreader

One important aspect of landing proofreading work, especially if you want to be hired by a company rather than freelance clients, is the editing test. Pretty much any legitimate company hiring proofreaders will have an editing test (if not several tests) that potential new hires need to pass.

To do well on an editing test, you’ll need to have solid English grammar skills.

As mentioned above, you’ll need to be familiar with the Chicago Manual of Style, at the very least. It’s also highly recommended that you get familiar with AP Style and, if you’ll be doing anything in an academic setting, you’ll need to study MLA format, APA format, or both.

You don’t need special training for any of these style guides (though training is available). You can learn much of it by getting a copy of each manual and finding free training online. The Purdue Online Writing Lab is a great place to get started.

Once you feel like you have a good grip on a particular style, you can add it to your resume.

If you want to try your hand at a sample test before you take one for a potential client, here are some options:

• The Ultimate Editing Test from ProEdit
• Test Yourself from the Society for Editors and Proofreaders

You can take a practice test to see if you think proofreading is something you’d like to pursue further.

If you’re ready to get started, here’s a link to Proofread Anywhere again . These courses are a great investment to help you build your proofreading business.

Originally published in June 2016. Updated February 2020.

About Angie Nelson

Angie Nelson began working from home in 2007 when she figured out how to take her future into her own hands and escape the corporate cubicle farm. Angie’s goal is sharing her passion for home business, personal finance, telecommuting, and entrepreneurship, and her work has been featured on Recruiter, FlexJobs and Business News Daily..

Angie Nelson began working from home in 2007 when she figured out how to take her future into her own hands and escape the corporate cubicle farm. Angie’s goal is sharing her passion for home business, personal finance, telecommuting, and entrepreneurship, and her work has been featured on Recruiter, FlexJobs and Business News Daily.

Reader Interactions

July 1, 2016 at 12:10 pm

Thanks so much for compiling this list! It is very helpful.

July 3, 2016 at 3:47 pm

What a great list. Thank you, Angie!

July 7, 2016 at 10:40 am

Thank you so much for the work you do and share with the world. I have written several of these places in my “catch all notebook” of leads, resources, reminders to do housework in between some of my online research lol. I didn’t pass the Polished test but I suppose it wasn’t a good idea to start the test at 0400 when I needed to be awake in 5 hrs. There’s a 90 day wait for retesting but maybe I can re-sign up? Anyway, I also really love and appreciate the resources for education/enrichment. Definitely an excellent idea to keep your skill set fresh. I would also like to recommend that anyone interested in proofreading or editing in geberal, add APA/MLA/Chicago style to their résumés and online profiles. And then go brush up on them if it’s been a while! Maybe you could add the Purdue OWL link to this article? OK I feel like I’m rambling but I’m just super excited about everything you do and get, if you ever need a proofreader… [email protected] ;D

July 7, 2016 at 10:43 am

…the embarrassing irony of a typo being in that comment

July 7, 2016 at 10:58 am

August 5, 2016 at 9:46 pm

Thanks for mentioning ProofreadingPal.com, Angie. We’re actually making a big hiring push right now to hire 8-10 new contract proofreaders by late September. We’d encourage anyone interested in an online proofreading job to visit our career opportunities page at http://proofreadingpal.com/proofreading-career-opportunities.php

Thanks, Brian Kaldenberg President ProofreadingPal LLC

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What Is a No-Interview Job, and How Can You Get One?

Whether you lack the time or resources required to sit through multiple stages of interviews, or you don't want to deal with stress or performance anxiety, interviews remain a sticking point for many eligible job-seekers.

Yet, while most jobs do include a formal interview process , a growing number of companies are deciding to skip in-person or virtual discussions altogether – providing a lifeline to candidates who would rather have their skills tested through alternative means.

If you want to get working right away, in a job that plays to your strengths, we list some common positions that don't involve an interview process. Whether you're after a full-time role or a lucrative side hustle , read on to discover some top no-interview jobs to apply to in 2024.

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What is a No-Interview Job?

As the term suggests, a no-interview job is a job that doesn't require candidates to take in-person or remote interviews. Instead, no-interview jobs typically involve skills-based assessments to evaluate job seekers' eligibility for a role.

The style of vetting lends itself well to independent workers. For this reason, a lot of no-interview jobs will be remote or independent contractor jobs – making them ideal for workers after a flexible work schedule. While it's possible to earn big without sitting through interviews, lots of no-interview roles will have a low barrier to entry too, which caters well to individuals in the early stages of their careers, career switchers, and workers who want to earn extra money on the side.

Common No Interview Jobs to Apply For in 2024

An interview isn't a prerequisite to every great job. Here's a list of professions that are easier to secure without interviewing:

1. Online tutoring

• Previous experience needed?  No
• Earning potential: ~ $10-60 per hour

If you're a student or have a depth of knowledge in a particular field, online tutoring can be a flexible way to supplement your main source of income. Tutoring companies connect quality tutors with students worldwide, which enables eligible workers to get earing anywhere a stable internet connection. Since lots of online tutoring openings hire students, most openings don't require tons of previous tutoring experience too.

Many online tutoring companies will require you to interview. However, websites like Studypool and Camply bypass the process and require candidates to fill out an online application,  take a short test, and submit a video application instead.

2. Writing and proofreading

• Previous experience needed? Yes
• Earning potential: ~ $12-50 per hour

If you're a skilled writer, becoming a freelance writer of proof-reader could be a great way to start earning without taking an interview. Lots of content platforms like Study.com accept submissions from writers without putting them through a formal application process. Hiring agents will likely ask for a portfolio of your written work to assess your eligibility for the role though, so its important to have this on hand before applying.

If you prefer to review articles, lots of content platforms hire proof-readers without subjecting them to an interview too. While proofreading experience is often preferred for these roles, a decent writing portfolio will often be enough to help you get your foot in the door.

3. Transcribing

• Previous experience needed? No
• Earning potential: ~ $10-$22 per hour

If you don't have lots of work experience or are looking for a super flexible way to make money, transcribing could be a great fit for you. Transcribing jobs involve workers converting audio or video recordings into written form. Due to the independent nature of the job, it's uncommon for transcribing companies to conduct interviews. Transcribing jobs tend to be remote and beginner-friendly too, making them accessible to a wide pool of candidates.

The low-skilled nature of the job means that it doesn't have as much earning potential as some other roles on this list. However, if you're interested in applying for a transcribing job, we'd recommend companies like Rev and Transcribe me as they both have a test-based application process and offer rates that are above the industry standard.

4. Virtual assistant

• Earning potential: ~ $20-30 per hour

Virtual assistants are independent contractors who provide administrative support to clients. In contrast to regular personal assistant jobs, virtual assistants conduct all of their tasks online and work remotely 100% of the time. The career path can be a great option for people with high levels of tech literacy, that enjoy flexible working arrangements and being their own boss.

There's no shortage of platforms that connect candidates to clients that need assistance. Most of the time, these roles don't require tons of experience, and look for relevant skills like research, organization, and time-keeping instead.

5. Data entry

• Earning potential: $15-$40 per hour

Data entry is another profession that doesn't require lots of previous experience. The job involves inputting information into computers and data processing programs and requires candidates to have a strong attention to detail. However, whether you're looking for a part-time or full-time position, it's fairly easy to land a job in data entry, especially if you apply to an entry-level role. If you want to have a stab at data entry, we'd recommend platforms like Sigtrack and CALSTART as they both post regular openings and don't require candidates to take a formal interview.

6. Customer support

• Earning potential: $15-$22 per hour

If you're personable and have good social skills, a job in customer support could fit you well. A wide range of industries – from ecommerce to telecommunications – depend heavily on remote customer service workers, and it's typically quite easy to land a job in the field without an interview, especially if you're willing to take an entry-level position.

If responding to queries over the phone isn't your thing, lots of companies employ workers to communicate with customers via email and chatbots too. Because of their virtual nature, most customer support jobs are remote-friendly. So if you aren't willing to commute into a physical office, this could be a great option for you.

Secure Your Dream Role, No Matter the Recruitment Process

The lure of no-interview jobs is hardly a mystery. With 93% of us having experienced interview anxiety , being vetted in real-time can be sweat-inducing even for seasoned job seekers. Sitting through interviews can be expensive too. Data compiled by Moneypenny found that the average in-person job interview costs US job seekers $72.29 due to losses incurred from missed wages, and expenses like transport and lunch.

This being said, while many recruiters are warming to alternative hiring processes, the majority of companies still prefer to assess a candidate's competency face-to-face. So, if your dream job requires you to be interviewed, or if none of the jobs on this list spoke to you, preparing for an interview may be inevitable.

If you've settled on this course of action, remain rest assured. An arsenal of tips and tricks is available to help calm your nerves and make you feel as prepared as possible. What's more, lots of interviewers rely on similar questions. So, if you read our guide to common interview questions and answers you'll be much more sure of what to expect on the day.

We're sorry this article didn't help you today – we welcome feedback, so if there's any way you feel we could improve our content, please email us at [email protected]

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More From Forbes

10 online job sites you should know about in 2024.

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If you're not experiencing any success with the most popular job boards, you need to explore some ... [+] unconventional routes and tap into less popular job sites

You've heard of Indeed, Glassdoor ZipRecruiter, and of course, LinkedIn. These are the typical online job sites we all resort to when we're looking for a new role.

But what happens when you've been searching for months and these job boards are ineffective for your job search strategy? How can you secure an interview—and a job offer—when these sites are swarmed with thousands of candidates, all vying for the same role?

Luckily, there are other, not-so-popular online job sites which have hundreds of employers on them, eager for their next candidate. These sites tend to be more niche, and as such, you'll have enhanced visibility to opportunities within your specific industry and sector. And since they are industry or sector-specific, employers may prefer to hire candidates there than on any other platform—meaning you have an advantage here if you find a good employer on these sites.

This is why you need to have an outside-the-box approach for your job search, because these sources may not automatically come to mind if you've found yourself laid off.

10 Types Of Online Job Sites

Generally speaking, there are 10 main categories of online sites in which you can find your next job—perhaps a little unconventionally.

1. Government Job Boards

Government job boards, such as USA Jobs, are where you will find a wide range of public sector opportunities listed.

2. Company Career Pages

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The vast majority of employers post job adverts directly on their own websites via their careers section You may be able to find roles here that are not listed anywhere else.

3. Freelance, Gig, And Side Hustle Platforms

Remember a job does not necessarily need to be within the confines of a 9 to 5 or handed out by an employer for it to be called a job there are many opportunities In the gig economy While the freelance job market Which are Only by your imagination creativity and innovation. You can find gigs and promote yourself on platforms such as Fiverr or Upwork.

4. Industry Job Boards

Industry specific websites can be useful resources for finding a multitude of listings within your field. For example, ArtJobs is an online job site dedicated to roles within theatre production arts culture and education.

5. Remote Job Sites

If you're looking specifically for remote work or other flexible opportunities such as part time and job shares, try remote job boards such as Remote.co, or FlexiJobs.

6. Professional Associations

Professional associations are another fantastic industry specific resource, because they are designed to cater to the individual professional development needs of their members and peers within the industry. For instance, the Club Management Association of America is a professional association for club managers across all disciplines.

In addition to offering their own certifications, they also provide their own job listings for senior management roles paying over $100,000, mid-level management, and entry-level and internship opportunities. This is available to members and non-members.

7. Salary Comparison Websites

Company transparency platforms, including salary comparison sites such as Salary.com, also post unique job listings, along with detailed compensation data for your industry.

8. Start-Up Directories

Crunchbase , for example has a live list of hot start-ups and companies that have completed fresh funding rounds, who are actively hiring. AngelList and Work In Startups are two other start-up job boards you might want to consider, if you enjoy working in a buzzing environment where you are meaningfully contributing to growth.

9. Social Media (LinkedIn, Facebook, etc.)

Other than LinkedIn's own job board, you can use LinkedIn and other social media platforms such as Facebook to find roles through networking and engagement with key decision makers, who may be in your connections or friends list, and of course, through word of mouth referrals. You should also join industry-specific LinkedIn and Facebook groups.

10. Community Forums

Join industry-specific online forums such as GitHub or Stack Overflow. You may also find jobs through Reddit threads dedicated to your field.

Industry associations are fantastic resources for finding your next dream role

When you initially started reading this article, you probably assumed it would list a plethora of traditional job boards. Hopefully, by now, the few minutes you've spent reading this have opened your eyes to discover that there are more opportunities available than you initially conceived. Not every job board needs to have "job board" in its name, or have obvious job search features at first glance. Through getting creative and innovative, you can secure numerous career development opportunities and stay ahead of the curve.

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11 Highest-Paying Jobs That Require Zero Experience

High-paying entry-level jobs.

A ccording to a study by The Interview Guys, there are many high-paying jobs available that require zero experience. From nurse practitioners earning a median salary over $110,000 and pharmacists pulling in a median income of $123,000 to math and English teachers, each earning approximately $80,000 annually, there's a great new job waiting for you whether you're just getting started in the job market or looking to make a career switch.  You don't need a college degree to be a police officer or to land one of these great jobs , either.

There's always been a market for stories but never before has the access to both tell and monetize our own stories been so readily available. And there's zero experience required for this potentially high-paying job. Kate Sorensen, the successful blogger behind the sites CouponCravings.com and MomsCravings.com, says she makes over $100,000 a year as an at-home, working mom.

Transcriptionist

"We have some transcriptionists that make over $50,000 a year that had no experience before they started with us," says Ben Walker, CEO of Transcription Outsourcing, LLC. Of course, as with most jobs, you'll need to learn the skill and it takes time to reach that annual salary but many transcriptionists got there in just about a year.

"One job that can pay very well with no experience is recruitment," notes Taylor, who worked in IT recruitment before becoming a freelance consultant and founder of homeworkingclub.com . "The reason it's sometimes possible to get into this work without experience is that it requires strong sales skills, resilience, and a thick skin—a combination that can be hard to find, and is sometimes more about natural attributes than experience." Being a recruiter often means a commission-based wage with a small salary, but it is possible to turn zero recruitment experience into a high-paying job. These 14 careers could make you a millionaire before you retire .

Remote location dishwasher

Unlike a traditional kitchen, where chefs earn the big bucks, a remote location dishwasher is a high-paying job with no experience needed. "On offshore oil-rigs or remote camps for example, a dishwasher can earn $80,000 or more each year plus benefits," says Michael Alexis, CEO at Team Building Hero. If you're willing to head off to a remote location, there's a lot of money to be made without having technical knowledge or specific industry experience. Looking to switch careers later in life? Here are some cool jobs you could have in the future .

According to Power Home Remodeling, the nation's largest full-service exterior home remodeling company with $700 million in annual revenue, "It is not atypical for first-year sales employees to earn between $100,000 and $185,000 for meeting their annual—and very attainable—goals." The company goes on to state that not only is experience not required for this high-paying entry-level sales job, but a college degree also is not a prerequisite.

Real estate investor and agent

"One of the best-paying jobs that require no previous experience is investing in real estate," per Daniela Andreevska, the marketing director at Mashvisor, a real estate data analytics company. "You can easily start investing in rental properties or other types of real estate after doing some reading and research online and using your common sense," Andreevska says. This is a very intuitive job that could be high-paying and requires zero experience to get started. Roger Maftean, a Career Expert and Content Strategist at Resumelab, shares, "To become a real estate agent you need to have an impeccable appearance and be equipped with the right skills set, including patience, perseverance, and interpersonal skills," but zero experience is required for this high-paying job. Maftean goes on to point out that a successful real estate agent will be, "passionate about working with people, understand their needs, and match these with the right solutions, and knowing basic math and negotiation tactics would come in handy too." It's never too late to start a second career.

Police officer

There is no experience required to be a police officer and because the average starting salary of a police officer is $57,794, according to Ethan Lichtenberg of USInsuranceAgents, it's a solid high-paying job many adults can perform. Lichtenberg says that the need to go through police school is a possible downside for some, but the salary may be worth a little extra education to get a high-paying job.

"Freelance translation was one of the first legitimate online jobs on the market, and to this day the translation industry continues to grow as the world becomes more globalized," according to Darko Jacimovic, co-founder of What To Become. "Anyone who has functional knowledge of two languages can do it. If you have good language skills, you can make a lot of money with translation without any working experience." Find out the 10 best careers to pursue right now.

Online proofreading

You may not have any professional proofreading experience on your resume, but per Martin Luenendonk, co-founder and CEO of Cleverism, if you, "have learned writing structures from the online course like Coursera or Udemy, etc, then you can earn well from providing your proofreading services online." The Cleverest CEO continues, "In proofreading, you don't need to rewrite or create content for someone's book, but you need to give it a last conclusive read to remove an anomaly in text. Ideally, an online proofreader can earn $44,954 to $58,595 annually." Being a freelance online proofreader is just one of many jobs where you can be your own boss.

Air traffic controller

It may come as an uneasy surprise, but, "It's not extensive work experience that matters in becoming an air traffic controller," per Roger Maftean. "From a formal point of view, you need to be under 30 and pass a few examinations, including medical tests, and to make it as an air traffic controller, you must be endowed with unique skills and predispositions, including spatial vision, outstanding stress resistance, ability to work in a team, and quick decision-making." If you qualify, even with zero experience you could land one of the highest-paying jobs out there, with a median annual wage of around $120,000. Read on to learn about the most unusual high-paying jobs.

• The Interview Guys : "No Experience Needed"
• Kate Sorensen, the successful blogger behind the sites CouponCravings.com and MomsCravings.com
• Ben Walker, CEO of Transcription Outsourcing, LLC
• Taylor, founder of homeworkingclub.com
• Michael Alexis, CEO at Team Building Hero
• Power Home Remodeling
• Daniela Andreevska, marketing director at Mashvisor
• Roger Maftean, Career Expert and Content Strategist at Resumelab
• Ethan Lichtenberg of USInsuranceAgents
• Darko Jacimovic, co-founder of whattobecome.com
• Martin Luenendonk, co-founder and CEO of Cleverism

The post 11 Highest-Paying Jobs That Require Zero Experience appeared first on Reader's Digest .

Gambling addiction hotlines say volume is up and callers are younger as online sports betting booms

In state after state, centers for problem gambling are noticing an alarming rise in calls to their helplines. 

The circumstances reported are also getting more severe, according to the directors of five problem gambling centers, a gambling researcher and an addiction counselor. People are filing for bankruptcy or losing homes or relationships. At the same time, callers are skewing younger, the experts said — often men in their 20s and 30s.

The directors say the mounting call volume has coincided with the legalization of sports betting and rising popularity of sports betting apps. 

“We believe, nationwide, the rate and severity of gambling problems have increased across the United States since 2018,” said Keith Whyte, executive director of the National Council on Problem Gambling, a nonprofit organization devoted to minimizing the costs and harms of gambling addiction. The group operates the helpline 1-800-GAMBLER. 

“We have every reason to believe the growth of online sports betting is a major contributing factor to the increase in gambling problems,” Whyte said.

In 2018, the Supreme Court struck down a law banning sports betting. To date, 38 states and Washington, D.C., have legalized the practice, according to the American Gaming Association , which advocates for the industry. Thirty of those states allow mobile sports betting.

Florida legalized sports betting in November, and it has since seen calls to its Council on Compulsive Gambling double. Pennsylvania’s Council on Compulsive Gambling saw call volume more than double from 2020 to 2023. 

Calls to Ohio’s Problem Gambling Network, meanwhile, increased 55% in 2023, the first year of legalized sports betting there.

“We are seeing this new trend where it is in fact sports bettors who are making up that big bump in call volume,” said Michael Buzzelli, the organization’s associate director. By February 2023, sports betting was the top form of problematic gambling reported to the helpline, surpassing lottery and casino slot machines, he said.

The issue has gained renewed attention in recent weeks after the Los Angeles Dodgers fired Shohei Ohtani’s interpreter , Ippei Mizuhara, following allegations that he stole money from the star to cover gambling debts. (Mizuhara’s story has shifted, and he has not commented directly about the theft allegations.) Around the same time, Cleveland Cavaliers coach J.B. Bickerstaff said he had received threats from gamblers . 

The companies behind the apps say they’re taking steps to reduce the risk of problem gambling, and they question whether the trend is as big as others say. In their view, mobile betting allows for oversight of practices that used to happen illegally, without safeguards.

FanDuel, which has amassed roughly 2.5 million average monthly players, said it sometimes  suspends or even closes accounts if customers display problematic activity, like wagering higher and higher amounts after a series of losing bets. 

“We’re making sure that the small percentage of people in the United States that should not be using our platform — similar to how they should not be drinking alcohol if they have a problem with alcohol — are not able to get access to it,” said Chris Jones, a spokesperson for the company. He declined to specify how many such instances there have been.

DraftKings — which had 3.5 million average monthly paid users at the end of last year , up from 1.5 million at the end of 2020 — declined to be quoted for this story.

Experts on problem gambling said that despite the companies’ efforts, there’s still a higher risk of addiction now that sports betting is more accessible and highly advertised. 

Several experts pointed out particular aspects of online sports betting that they said can make it more addictive than traditional gambling. For instance, the focus on sports can make bets seem less risky, since people have prior knowledge of a player’s stats or a team’s performance. And unlike a casino, mobile apps allow people to wager money directly from their bank accounts. 

“One can easily, rapidly place many bets that may make it more feasible for vulnerable individuals to experience gambling problems,” said Marc Potenza, director of the Center of Excellence in Gambling Research at Yale University. 

Plus, the possibilities are virtually endless. 

“There’s hundreds, if not thousands, of wagers within each individual game that can be placed now on a smartphone,” said Josh Ercole, executive director of the Council on Compulsive Gambling of Pennsylvania. “You’re not calling your bookie to place ‘the Eagles are going to beat the Giants’ or whatever.”

Whyte said sports betting apps should have easy-to-use, visible tools that allow players to set limits on the time and money they can spend, and they should offer easy access to the national helpline.

DraftKings, FanDuel and other apps do enable users to limit the money they can wager, number of bets, or time spent betting. DraftKings users can find that in their settings, under the title “Responsible Gaming,” while FanDuel users can do so via a small icon labeled “RG” at the top of the homepage. FanDuel also advertises a helpline when users log in, and both apps allow users to voluntarily ban themselves.

Experts also said a rise in advertising for sports betting is helping to fuel the trend: U.S. sports betting operators spent around $282 million on national TV ads from September 2021 to May 2022, according to one report .

“Before 2018, there was no advertising for sports betting during events. Now, you not only have sports betting ads saturating the events, you can even bet on the game that’s right in front of you,” Whyte said. 

Cait DeBaun, a spokesperson for the American Gaming Association, suggested that advertising is “one of the top reasons that customers move to legal, regulated sportsbooks.” Some FanDuel ads highlight the app’s voluntary time and wager limits.

Jake, a 49-year-old member of Gamblers Anonymous, said he’s not opposed to legal sports betting but worries that advertising and targeted promotions make it difficult for some people to quit. He requested that his last name not be published for privacy reasons.

Online sports betting is not yet legal in Georgia, where Jake lives, but he said he sees lots of young people at Gamblers Anonymous meetings, many of whom are addicted to mobile gaming. 

“In meetings, I’m seeing people younger and younger. When I first started meeting, I was the youngest. I was in my early 40s,” he said.

Jake said his addiction took off when he started betting illegally online via bookies and offshore websites.

“I was highly competitive in sports and played a lot of high school sports,” Jake said. “After high school, I didn’t play and I missed the competitive edge. I chased that high, and I got it from gambling.”

In the end, he said, “I lost a marriage. I lost a business. … I would get loans, I would run credit cards up — hundreds of thousands of dollars lost.”

Around 1% of U.S. adults meet the diagnostic criteria for a gambling addiction, according to the National Council on Problem Gambling. But in 2021, a council survey found that a quarter of young adults frequently experienced at least one sign of problem gambling, like hiding bets from other people or feeling restless or irritable when they tried to scale back.

“The legalization of sports betting, the ease of online betting platforms and the normalization of sports wagering contribute to its prevalence among those struggling with addiction,” Lin Sternlicht, co-founder of Family Addiction Specialist in New York City, said in an email. She added that push notifications create a sense of urgency that can foster addictive behavior. 

Both the gaming industry and federal lawmakers have endeavored to address these issues.

Last week, seven gaming companies, including DraftKings and FanDuel, announced a trade group to promote responsible gaming research and education. The group hopes to create a database that enables companies to share information — for instance, if a user voluntarily bans themselves from one app, other companies would know to ban the user as well.

Last year, the American Gaming Association also instituted a requirement that people who appeared in sports betting ads be at least 21 and prohibited college partnerships that promoted sports betting. 

Meanwhile, Democrats in the House introduced a bill in January that would set aside 50% of revenue from a federal tax on sports wagers for gambling addiction treatment and research.

Whyte said the action is much needed.

“The federal government collected, last year, more than $8 billion in gambling tax revenue. Yet they don’t put a single penny of those windfall profits back into the health system,” he said.

Katie Mogg is an intern at NBC News.

Aria Bendix is the breaking health reporter for NBC News Digital.