Looking to turn your eye for detail into a profitable career? Online proofreading jobs offer a flexible way to earn money from home while helping others perfect their writing. This guide explores the best companies hiring proofreaders in 2024, with opportunities ranging from entry-level positions to professional editing roles paying up to $45 per hour.
1. ProofreadingServices.com
Pay rate: $19-46 per hour, depending on urgency and expertise level
This platform offers flexible schedules and various content types, from academic papers to business documents. New proofreaders must pass a 20-minute preliminary test to qualify. Payment is made weekly via PayPal, and you can choose your own hours.
2. Scribendi
Pay rate: $25-40 per hour average earnings
A well-established platform specializing in academic and business editing. Remote positions are available worldwide, though they prefer candidates with a university degree. Offers steady work volume and regular payment schedules. Editors can work flexible hours and choose their assignments.
3. FlexJobs
Pay rate: Varies by position ($15-50 per hour)
While not exclusively a proofreading platform, FlexJobs features numerous legitimate proofreading opportunities. The site screens all listings to ensure legitimacy, making it a safe option for finding remote editing work. A small membership fee applies, but the quality of job listings makes it worthwhile.
4. Cambridge Proofreading & Editing
Pay rate: $20-30 per hour
Focuses on academic and business documents. Requires a bachelor's degree and preferably experience in academic editing. Offers flexible schedules and consistent work opportunities. Ideal for those with academic backgrounds looking for steady remote work.
5. Wordvice
Pay rate: $25-35 per hour
Specializes in academic editing, particularly for ESL authors. Requires advanced degrees in relevant fields and previous editing experience. Regular work available with performance bonuses and opportunities for advancement.
Looking to expand your income streams? Check out our guide on 35+ sites where you can get paid to write, with opportunities paying up to $2,000 per article.
6. Cactus Communications
Pay rate: $20-35 per hour
Specializes in academic and medical content editing. Perfect for those with backgrounds in sciences, medicine, or academic publishing. Offers training programs and potential for long-term relationships with consistent work.
7. Edifix
Pay rate: $25-40 per hour
Focuses on reference editing and bibliography formatting. Ideal for those with experience in academic publishing or library sciences. Offers specialized work with consistent opportunities and regular payment schedules.
8. Wordfirm (Part of Managed Editing)
Pay rate: $20-45 per hour
Provides editing services for various industries, including technical documentation and creative writing. Requires at least 5 years of editing experience. Offers both project-based and ongoing work opportunities.
9. BabbleType
Pay rate: $15-25 per hour
Offers editing and proofreading work for transcription projects. Great for beginners, as they provide training. Regular work available with weekly payment schedules.
10. Scribbr
Pay rate: $25-35 per hour
Specializes in academic editing, particularly for international students. Requires strong academic background and excellent language skills. Provides comprehensive editor training and flexible working hours.
If you're interested in more flexible work opportunities, explore our guide on 9 remote jobs that are always hiring.
11. Guru
Pay rate: $15-50 per hour (varies by project)
A freelance marketplace where you can find various proofreading projects. Set your own rates and choose projects that match your expertise. Best for those who want to build their own client base.
12. Upwork
Pay rate: $20-60 per hour (varies by project)
Large freelance platform with numerous proofreading opportunities. Ability to set your own rates and build long-term client relationships. Best for experienced proofreaders who can compete in a competitive marketplace.
13. EditFast
Pay rate: $15-30 per hour
Provides various editing and proofreading projects. Must pass their editing test to join. Offers regular work opportunities with flexible scheduling.
14. American Proofreading Company
Pay rate: $20-45 per hour
Focuses on business and legal document proofreading. Requires strong attention to detail and previous experience. Offers steady work with regular payment schedules.
15. Fiverr
Pay rate: $15-100+ per hour (varies by service package)
Create your own proofreading gig and set your rates. Great platform for building a personal brand and client base. Success depends on reviews and marketing your services effectively.
Requirements to Start Proofreading Online
- Strong command of English grammar and punctuation
- Attention to detail
- Basic computer skills
- Reliable internet connection
- Professional communication skills
Tools for Professional Proofreaders
- Grammarly Premium - Advanced grammar and style checker
- ProWritingAid - Comprehensive editing tool
- Chicago Manual of Style Online subscription
Final Words
Online proofreading offers a viable way to earn money from home, with opportunities suitable for both beginners and experienced editors. Success in this field requires continuous learning and building a strong reputation. Consider starting with entry-level positions and gradually working your way up to higher-paying opportunities. Many successful proofreaders combine work from multiple platforms to create a stable income stream.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Proofreading Jobs
How much do online proofreaders make?
Online proofreaders typically earn between $15-45 per hour, with experienced editors commanding higher rates. Earnings vary based on expertise, specialization, and client type. Academic and technical proofreaders often earn more than general content proofreaders.
Do you need certification to become an online proofreader?
While certification isn't always required, having one can increase your earning potential and credibility. Popular certifications include those from the Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA) and the American Copy Editors Society (ACES).
How can beginners start proofreading online?
Beginners can start by taking online courses in proofreading, practicing with free tools like Grammarly, and starting with entry-level positions on platforms like ProofreadingServices.com. Building a portfolio through freelance platforms can also help establish credibility.
