online proofreading jobs website

21 Websites Offering Legit Freelance Proofreading Jobs

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Websites That Provide Freelance Proofreading Jobs

1.  scribendi.

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

Suitable for beginners?

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

Do you need a degree?

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

Special requirements:

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

Your computer must have Microsoft Word 2010 or higher. 

2.  Proofed Inc.

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

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

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

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

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

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

3.  ProofreadNOW

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

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

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

The website doesn’t specify.  

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

4.  Polished Paper

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

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

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

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

5.  Reedsy

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

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

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

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

Not aware of any. 

6.  Domainite

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

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

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

7.  Gramlee

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

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

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

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

8.  Wordvice

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

Apply here to become a freelance editor with Wordvice. 

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

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

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

9.  CACTUS

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

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

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

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

10.  Sibia Proofreading

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

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

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

You need to be a native English speaker. 

11.  ProofreadingServices.com

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

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

The website doesn’t specify. 

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

12.  ProofreadingPal

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

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

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

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

13.  Edit24-7

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

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

14.  EditFast

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

EditFast gets 40% of the final project price. 

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

You need to have a degree from a recognized university. 

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

15.  Edit911

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

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

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

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

16.  First Editing

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

The website lists  First Editing’s requirements  here.   

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

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

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

17.  Cambridge Proofreading LLC

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

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

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

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

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

18.  WordsRU

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

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

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

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

19.  Scribbr

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

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

No. You must have experience editing academic texts. 

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

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

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

20.  Stickler

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

No. You must have significant experience editing academic texts. 

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

21.  Editana

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

No. You must have relevant proofreading experience to apply.  

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

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

FAQs about Freelance Proofreading Jobs

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

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

Keep reading for the answers to those questions. 

How do I become a freelance proofreader without a degree?

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

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

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

Start Your Own Proofreading Business

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

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

***Proofread Anywhere is 60% off until September 2 with the code LABORDAY60!***

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

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

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

Can you make money proofreading?

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

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

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

How much should I charge for proofreading per hour?

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

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

Some editorial associations publish median rates that they have compiled by surveying their members. According to the  Editorial Freelancers Association  (EFA), proofreaders can charge between $0.02 and $0.03 per word or between $40 and $50 per hour for proofreading nonfiction (as of January 2024). 

The  Chartered Institute of Editors and Proofreaders  (CIEP) suggests a minimum hourly rate for proofreading of £29.85, and a minimum hourly rate of £34.70 for copyediting (as of March 2024).  

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

Final Thoughts about Online Proofreading Jobs

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

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

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

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This page is where we hire proofreaders and editors. Please use this link to get a quote for proofreading and editing services.

Important: We never have and never will charge candidates to apply to us for any job. If someone is charging you to apply for a job with us, they are not associated with us and are doing so fraudulently. Please report them here: [email protected].

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Thank you for your interest in applying for an at-home proofreading position with ProofreadingServices.com. We hire part-time and full-time proofreaders who demonstrate superlative proofreading and editing skills. You are welcome to apply from any country.

• Competitive pay ranging from USD 19 to 46 per hour depending on turnaround time, with the highest pay for the most urgent deadlines
• Flexible hours (work when you want, right from your living room, in any time zone)
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Apply below: If you are interested in becoming a proofreader for ProofreadingServices.com, please complete the 20-minute preliminary test below. Note: If you have a learning difference and need additional time or other accommodations, please email [email protected].

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Last updated on Oct 18, 2021

Remote Proofreading Jobs and 26 Places to Find Them

About the author.

Reedsy's editorial team is a diverse group of industry experts devoted to helping authors write and publish beautiful books.

About Linnea Gradin

The editor-in-chief of the Reedsy Freelancer blog, Linnea is a writer and marketer with a degree from the University of Cambridge. Her focus is to provide aspiring editors and book designers with the resources to further their careers.

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 ( the EFA );

📝 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 with projects involving copy editing tasks such as checking for word choice and spelling ).

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 are looking to get hired and 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 fees 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 the clarity and cohesion of the writing 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 here . 

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 quotes and offers .

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

By 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

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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20 Online Proofreading Jobs for Beginners (2024 Guide)

by Joanna Kneller

on May 27, 2024

Searching for ways to work from home and considering online proofreading jobs?

It could be a perfect fit if you have an eye for detail and enjoy polishing other writers’ prose.

But how do you get started?

This post has all the answers you need to become a professional proofreader, whether you want to work online, remotely, be an employee, or freelancer — it’s your choice.

Since proofreading is a major part of the writing process, proofreaders are always in demand.

Ready to learn how to become a proofreader, how much proofreading jobs pay, and the top 20 sites for finding legitimate online proofreading jobs?

Great, let’s go!

What is Proofreading?

Proofreading is the process of reading and examining a piece of written work to find errors and mark them for correction. A proofreader is generally the last person to read through a document before publication. Proofreaders scour text for errors missed during the editing process.

They look for:

• Improper grammar
• Misspelled words
• Incorrect punctuation
• Inconsistent spellings of words
• Formatting errors
• Incorrect capitalization
• Typesetting issues

Proofreaders work on all kinds of documents for:

• Academic and student clients
• Business and professional clients
• Creative writers, authors, and publishers
• English as a second language (ESL) writers

Now that we have a better understanding of what proofreading entails, let’s see how it compares to editing.

Proofreading vs. Copyediting

It’s easy to confuse proofreading and editing, as the lines between the two are sometimes blurry. However, they are different.

Copy editing involves correcting grammar, spelling, punctuation, word choice, inconsistencies, and syntax ( the arrangement of words and phrases to create well-formed sentences ).

Overall, a copyeditor’s main concern is to ensure their documents are clear, coherent, consistent, and correct. Copy editors often have the responsibility of proofreading, as well.

Proofreading and copyediting do involve some of the same tasks; however, a copy editor is more likely to change the phrasing or structure of a document , while a proofreader is less likely to significantly alter text before it’s published.

In addition, proofreading is considered the final stage of the editing process, so the proofreader can pick up any errors the copy editor may have missed.

The Top 20 Sites for Finding Proofreading Jobs

Before searching for proofreading jobs, consider your interests and what type of documents you’d enjoy proofreading. This will narrow your options and ensure you find suitable jobs.

Some sites listed below include job boards with search bars. Here’s a short list of search terms to start with:

• Remote proofreading jobs
• Freelance proofreading jobs
• Proofreader
• Copyediting
• Editing jobs

Fiverr is a freelance marketplace that connects buyers and sellers while offering high-quality services at every price point, including proofreading services.

It’s different from other marketplaces in this post because buyers seek you out, instead of you bidding or applying for jobs.

Fiverr is a great place to make money as a beginner because it’s totally acceptable to only charge $5 for your services. And as you gain experience, you can increase your prices.

Simply sign up, set up your “Gig,” and offer your services to a worldwide audience.

2. FlexJobs

FlexJobs is a job site that offers high-quality remote proofreading jobs (amongst others) for freelancers and employees.

You can easily search jobs by keyword, category, or title.

Rest assured, all job listings are legitimate since FlexJobs takes extra precautions to protect job seekers from scams. That’s why, in order to view full job details, FlexJobs charges a small (satisfaction guaranteed) membership fee.

Don’t hesitate to check their listings first — it may be well worth it!

Gramlee is a copyediting site that also provides proofreading services done by independent contractors who work from home.

Their website says they are always looking for exceptional editors, which could mean you!

Applying is simple: fill out the Gramlee Employment Application, and if they like your application, they’ll contact you.

Upwork is one of the largest online job marketplaces.

Clients post projects and jobs, ranging from entry-level to expert, for freelancers to choose from. This is beneficial for beginners looking to get started.

Sign up for a free account, create your profile, and search for proofreading jobs via the search bar or by selecting the Editing & Proofreading category. Once you find a fun project or remote job, submit a proposal and bid for the job.

Just know that Upwork can be highly competitive, so you may initially need to accept low wages and submit multiple proposals before getting hired.

5. ProofreadingPal

ProofreadingPal is a proofreading website that offers a variety of professional proofreading services and utilizes a unique two-editor approach, wherein every document is proofread by two skilled proofreaders. This is a benefit for job seekers since it means a higher demand for proofreaders.

ProofreadingPal editors can earn between $500 and $3,000 per month, but you must be enrolled as a graduate or postgraduate student (with at least a 3.5 GPA) in an accredited US college/university OR have a graduate degree and five years of experience as a proofreader.

6. Wordvice

Wordvice is a global leader in providing editing and proofreading services to academic, admissions, and business customers.

They offer remote part-time editing and proofreading jobs to freelancers who are enrolled in or have completed a graduate degree program and have some previous editing experience.

To apply, submit an application (include expected pay rate) and resume, complete an editing sample, and then wait for notification of results.

7. American Journal Experts

American Journal Experts is a team of former academics and publishing professionals who provide manuscript preparation services.

Current proofreader job openings and available freelance job opportunities are listed on the Careers page (scroll down to view contractor opportunities).

American Journal Experts is currently looking to hire independent contractors who are affiliated with specific US research institutions.

8. Domainite

Domainite is a platform that provides marketing services to business owners, including website design, social media marketing, and reputation management.

Before applying to proofread for Domainite, be aware that they may offer low pay. However, if you’re brand new to proofreading, this could be a good opportunity to gain some experience.

The application process is simple: Fill out the short Freelance Editing Job Hire Form and edit the sample text provided.

9. EditFast

EditFast is a platform where freelancers and clients connect to provide and receive services, including editing and proofreading.

Freelancers create their own Web pages (profiles) to promote their skills and talents for clients to view. Clients can either select a freelancer or submit their documents for EditFast to assign an appropriate freelancer for their project.

Complete the registration process to get started, and once EditFast approves your information, your Web page will be activated.

To be hired, EditFast requires a degree from a recognized university and past proofreading experience.

EditFast receives 40% of the project price.

10. ProofreadingServices.com

ProofreadingServices.com provides proofreading, translation, publishing, and professional services.

When you work with them, you’ll proofread “just about everything under the sun” and have access to part-time and full-time online proofreading jobs that pay between $19 and $46 per hour, depending on turnaround time.

To be considered for hire, you’ll need to successfully complete a 20-question proofreading test within 20 minutes and score 95% or above on it.

11. Scribbr

Scribbr provides academic proofreading and editing services to help students earn their degrees.

They look for editors with a passion for language and a bachelor’s degree.

For an editor role, you’ll need to pass Scribbr’s quiz and have your resume reviewed to determine if you’re a good fit. Next, complete an editing assignment, and if you pass, you’ll be invited to join Scribbr Academy to receive training.

After successfully completing two to five simulation orders, you’ll be officially welcomed to the Scribbr editor team.

12. Scribe Media

Scribe Media helps authors write, publish, and market their own books, which includes proofreading services. Scribe Media offers full-time careers as well as freelance and part-time roles.

Full-time employees enjoy plenty of time off, flexible hours, the option to work from home, as well as health and financial benefits.

Check Scribe Media’s “Careers” page for a list of available full-time and freelance opportunities. If there are no open proofreading jobs, simply join the Careers List to receive notification of new roles.

13. Scribendi

Scribendi provides editing and proofreading services to a variety of clients, including those in business, academia, and publishing fields.

They hire both freelancers and in-house employees for editor/proofreader positions.

Freelancers make their own schedules, choose interesting assignments, and interact with in-house staff and other freelancers via an online forum.

Scribendi looks for experienced proofreaders and editors with a bachelor’s degree or higher who are also native-level English speakers (since much of their work is from ESL students and clients).

Simply click on the “Apply Now” button on Scribendi’s Jobs page.

14. LinkedIn

LinkedIn is an online business platform for professional networking where you can connect with other professionals to either market your services or find employment.

Open an account, create your profile, and start connecting with everyone you know .

Search for online proofreading jobs by clicking on the “Jobs” icon. When using the search bar, click on the “City, state, or zip code” bar and select “Remote” from the dropdown menu.

If you plan to offer freelance proofreading services to those in your network, be sure to indicate on your profile that you’re providing these services.

15. Polished Paper

Polished Paper offers “world-class” proofreading and editing services to business, academic, personal, author, and ESL clients.

They look for exceptional editors with diverse educational backgrounds, experiences, and skills.

To apply, register for a user account, upload your resume, and take a 35-question editor test. The good news is that Polished Paper encourages the use of outside resources to help you complete this test.

16. Freelancer

Freelancer is an online marketplace that connects employers and freelancers worldwide.

Employers post projects, receive bids from freelancers, and select the best freelancer to complete the job.

Set up your profile and browse proofreading jobs (you can save job searches and get notified when relevant new jobs are posted).

Once you find a job opportunity, write your best pitch , get hired, and deliver high-quality work.

Guru is a platform where freelancers and employers work together.

Employers post a variety of jobs for freelancers to browse and to submit quotes for.

You can easily find proofreading jobs by either selecting the Editing & Proofreading subcategory (under the Writing & Translation category) or by simply entering relevant terms into the search bar.

Sign up on the website, build your profile, view job listings, and submit quotes for proofreading jobs.

Employers evaluate all quotes and choose the best freelancer for the job.

18. Clickworker

Clickworker is an online platform that hires independent contractors called Clickworkers to perform small tasks for clients.

Clickworker takes large, complex jobs and breaks them down into microtasks that include proofreading and copyediting. These tiny tasks are then completed by Clickworkers on a piece-rate basis.

To become a freelance Clickworker, simply sign up on the website, create a user profile, complete some assessments, and then get to work.

19. Get Editing Jobs

Get Editing Jobs is an online community of job seekers and employers that includes a job directory with writing, editing, and proofreading positions.

To find a list of proofreading jobs, start with search terms like “proofreader,” “proofreading,” and “editor.”

It may also be beneficial to create a job seeker account so you can manage your resume, create custom alerts, and receive job notifications.

20. Lionbridge

Lionbridge is a global communications platform with a community of talented, remote workers who help customers with their content.

They outsource various tasks to their workers and often have online proofreading jobs available.

If no proofreading jobs are listed, be sure to join the community , register for proofreading tasks, and take the relevant evaluation tests. Lionbridge will then contact you when proofreading work is available.

How Much Do Proofreading Jobs Pay?

Can you make decent money proofreading?

Salary.com reports that, as of March 29, 2021, the average proofreader salary in the United States was $53,226, with ranges typically falling between $46,709 and $60,779, depending on education, certifications, skills, and number of years in the profession.

For hourly rates, as of April 4, 2021, Payscale.com reports the average proofreader hourly pay to be $18.53, with individual pay ranging from $11.84 to $30.17.

These numbers are likely for full-time proofreading jobs.

When it comes to freelance work, it’s possible to be paid per word, per page, per project, or by the hour. And, as a freelancer, you have the ability to set your own rates .

According to the Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA), freelance proofreaders can charge between $31 and $45 per hour, OR between $0.02 and $0.039 per word, depending on experience level and type of proofreading job.

This gives you an idea of what to expect, but ultimately your pay depends on your experience and skills, who you’re working for, and how you’re being paid.

Let’s look at the skills and qualifications needed to be a proofreader.

Proofreader Skills & Qualifications

A bachelor’s degree in English or a related field is sometimes required, but it’s not necessary to find proofreading work.

Prior proofreading experience may also be required.

If you’re a beginner proofreader, think about your schooling or past employment. For example, did you do any academic editing while attending college?

Or, how about friends and family? Did you ever proofread correspondence, resumes, or creative writing for them?

Include these experiences in your application or resume.

You’ll also need these proofreading skills:

• Strong language skills to correct spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
• Attention to detail  to spot small errors and inconsistencies, which also requires patience and concentration.
• Communication skills to work directly with clients and be able to understand and follow instructions.
• Ability to meet deadlines to submit completed work within specific turnaround times.
• Computer skills  to learn formatting, use software, and utilize the Internet.

You should also become familiar with style guides, like The Chicago Manual of Style (CMOS) and The Associated Press Stylebook (AP).

How to Become a Proofreader

If you have a natural tendency for finding errors and noticing inconsistencies while reading, this is a great start. And if you enjoyed English class and scored well, this is good too.

But if you have no prior proofreading experience, it would serve you well to get some training before applying for jobs.

While you don’t necessarily need a college degree, it’d be wise to brush up on those skills you learned in English class.

A multitude of online training courses are available, and most are reasonably priced. A simple Google search for “online proofreading courses” will provide a list of high-quality options.

Two popular courses are Proofread Anywhere ’s General Proofreading and Proofreading Academy ’s Becoming a Proofreader.

Another option is Udemy.com , which offers many inexpensive editing and proofreading courses-some as little as $11.99 during sales.

Once you take a course or two, start updating your resume.

As you find jobs, create a portfolio to show prospective employers or clients your work.

Next, let’s find out what tools you’ll need to do proofreading work from home.

What Tools Do You Need for Remote Proofreading Jobs?

Besides a computer and internet access, some other tools are useful for completing remote proofreading jobs.

Microsoft Word may be the most common word processing program used for online proofreading jobs. Newer versions of Word include a “Review” menu with useful features for proofreading and editing, such as Editor, New Comment, Track Changes, and Compare.

Google Docs works with Google Drive. Drive is like a filing cabinet that stores files, while Docs is the word processing program where you open and work on your files/documents. Drive and Docs allow you to share files (and your work) with your employer or client.

Dropbox is similar to Google Drive and can also be used to share files with your employer or client.

Spell-check is a feature included with your word processing program. Use it! However, don’t fully rely on this as it’s incapable of picking up every error due to homophones and context, etc.

Grammarly (affiliate link) scans your work, points out spelling and grammatical errors , and offers options for correction. ProWritingAid (affiliate link) is another great option, and it comes with a 20% discount. But don’t fully depend on Grammarly or other tools — they’ll miss some errors, depending on context, type of document, etc.

Ready to Do Proofreading Jobs from Home?

So you’ve found a way to work from home AND make money doing what you love.

You’ve also learned how to finally go after and get your dream job.

If you’re new to the idea of proofreading, don’t hesitate. Get some training to build your confidence.

Then, update your resume and search the sites above for interesting proofreading jobs.

If you already have education and experience proofreading, then begin by examining which new skills you can either acquire or improve.

Now, get out there and be the best dang proofreader you can be!

Joanna Kneller

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

Allan Borch

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. Learn more »

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.

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 .

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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25 Online Proofreading Jobs for Beginners (Legitimate Proofreader Jobs)

Is working from home finally becoming a real thing for you?

I’ve been a freelance writer for six years and have talked to many people about working online from home.

While I love freelance writing, there are many other opportunities and services you can offer from home.

One hot service is proofreading jobs. These types of online jobs serve well for those wanting some side income.

If you have a knack for spelling and grammar, then proofreading may be your side hustle!

In my post, I will dive into what proofreading is, how much proofreaders earn, the best sites for legitimate proofreading jobs, and a case study from a student of mine.

What is Proofreading?

You may hear the terms “proofreading” and “editing” thrown around synonymously, but these are two very different things.

Proofreading skills mainly focus on spelling and grammatical errors. Proofreaders are not usually required to rephrase sentences or restructure sections of text.

So when you’re searching around the web for online proofreading jobs, it’s important to know the difference.

Often, job adverts overlap the terms – either looking for both services or misusing the terms.

Proofreaders cover a wide variety of content, including web content, eBooks, white papers, student thesis/essays, and even user manuals.

How To Become A Proofreader

Not many skills are needed to become a proofreader, but you need excellent spelling and grammar skills and a strong command of the language you are proofreading in – native English speaker, for example.

For beginner proofreaders, this is all you need for a remote job. It’s enough to get you working and earning money online!

However, suppose proofreading jobs from home is something you want to pursue as a significant source of income. In that case, you’ll have to rack up a lot of experience or back your skills up with qualifications from a proofreading test.

While you don’t need a degree to become a proofreader, many high-paying sites require one. They tend to seek a degree in a relevant field, such as English and Journalism.

Worry not, though!

If you’re just starting then, this is not something you need to fret over. A lot of freelancing proofreader jobs tend to rely more heavily on experience and testimonials.

So even without formal education, working toward a lucrative life as a freelance proofreader with the right job opportunity is possible.

The point is to market your services online and  network with industry leaders to help you land your first proofreading job.

How Much Do Online Proofreaders Earn?

Like any online freelancing job, you can get what you put into it.

Because proofreading takes less time and effort than other writing jobs, these jobs tend to pay less. However, you can earn good money proofreading from home.

Clients tend to charge per word, page, project, or hourly rate. As a beginner proofreader, you can probably stand to make about $10 per hour.

Again, this depends on how much legwork you put into finding clients and how much time you can focus on building a business.

According to ZipRecruiter , proofreaders earn, on average, $51 305 per year!

For other online proofreading jobs:

• Freelance proofreading job salary: $51,991/yr
• Content proofreading job salary: $59, 265/yr

That’s likely because these income statements are based on those who work full-time, but no matter how many hours you can spare to focus on online proofreading jobs, the earning potential is there.

25 Online Proofreading Jobs

With an impressive earning potential there is, of course, a demand for this service.

It’s not hard to convince content creators that they need a proofreader or freelance editor – anyone who is serious about their writing and publishing it could benefit from one.

When finding online proofreading jobs, you have two options: Applying for jobs or cold-contacting for jobs.

The latter means you reach out to companies with unsolicited offers to proofread for them.

For beginners, however, it may be best to get some experience by drumming up business through job boards or proofreading services.

The following sites and job boards are perfect for beginner proofreaders (and for an experienced proofreader, too) – most require very little experience. They just want to know you have the skills.

Check out these 25 legitimate proofreading jobs online.

Note: A proofreading website would not be a good source for freelance writing jobs.

If you want to land profitable writing jobs, check out my post on the best job boards for freelance writers .

1. Click Worker

Click Worker is an online service that offers project completion to clients by outsourcing micro-tasks to writers, translators, researchers, data processors, and proofreaders.

When it comes to remote proofreading jobs, they are looking for individuals with good language skills and editing abilities.

Once you sign up, you will be required to take a test. After that, you can access available jobs.

The fee per word depends on the quality level expected for the particular job.

Fiverr is possibly one of the best places to begin looking for freelance proofreading jobs. On their site, you can sell your proofreading services, or “gigs”, at whatever rate.

Remember that people often turn to Fiverr for cheap services, so you likely don’t stand to make a lot of money here.

However, it is a great place to get started and rack up some experience!

3. LinkedIn

I have personally found success in using LinkedIn to market my freelance services! It’s an awesome place to find freelance work, including work at home proofreading jobs.

Using LinkedIn to find jobs takes some time – you’ll need to keep trying and applying to different jobs.

But when you do start gaining clients on this platform, you may just find your proofreading career taking off!

4. Get Editing Jobs

Get Editing Jobs is a community of editing job seekers and employers. Here you can find and apply for various editing positions like a copy editor.

This is a big directory of freelancing jobs, so you’re going to see a lot of writing and editing work.

However, if you search for “proofreader,” or “remote proofreader” you’ll see a few available jobs pop up.

UpWork is another great place to start for online proofreading jobs from home with no experience. Just like Get Editing Jobs, UpWork is a freelance marketplace full of job listings.

This work from home platform is a place for people of all levels of experiences and currently has 1455 job listings for proofreaders.

Note: I don’t recommend this for freelance writing jobs .

6. MediaBistro

MediaBistro is a media-related job board that allows you to browse various freelance jobs.

This is another board where you’ll have to do some digging, but the platform allows you to sign up for job alerts if anything related to proofreading becomes available.

7. FlexJobs

FlexJobs is an online job marketplace for freelancers such as proofreaders. If you search “entry level proofreading jobs,” you can find a proofreading gig looking to be filled.

Pro Tip for Job Boards : You don’t need to narrow your job search by location since you can do them from home!

8. Proof Reading Services

Proof Reading Services offer part-time and full-time remote positions, a flexible schedule, and competitive pay .

You can stand to earn between $19 – $46 per hour.

You do have to complete a test to begin the application process.

For more help, here’s my post on finding the right proofreading service for you!

9. Lionbridge

Lionbridge works much like Click Worker by outsourcing various parts of a client’s project to freelancers – especially proofreaders.

You must sign up and take a skills test to get started. You can then begin to receive proofreading tasks.

10. Proofreading Pal

ProofreadingPal hires individuals enrolled in college (with a minimum GPA of 3.5) or experienced graduates.

This is the perfect spot to find at-home proofreading jobs if you want to earn extra money while studying!

11. R3Ciprocity

R3ciprocity is a neat little system based on credits. Contributors proof each other’s work and use earned credit to get their own work proofed.

May seem pointless if you’re looking to make some money, but you can also turn the credits into cash!

Reedsy is a marketplace that connects freelancers with authors and writers. Once you sign up, you can begin receiving requests from clients and responding with quotes.

Plus, with what they call a bit of “data-science-magic,” Reedsy’s system will pair you up with clients who are likely a good fit.

13. OneSpace Freelancers

OneSpace Freelancers is an online platform focused on helping freelancers submit work, receiving feedback and get paid.

This site will post edit and proofreading jobs as they become available.

14. EditFast

EditFast connects freelancers, including proofreaders, with clients. Once you create a profile and resume, client can then check out your samples and choose whether or not to hire you for some copy editing.

There is a potential on this site to make money but EditFast does keep 40% of the total project price.

15. Polished Paper

Polished Paper looks for more experienced proofreaders but offer a higher pay-scale than most sites.

Once you sign up, they will send you a 35 question editor test. FYI, you are allowed (and encouraged) to use outside resources such as formatting guides to complete the test.

Guru is a platform much like Fiverr where you can find individuals looking for anything from proofreaders to translators to crochet patterns (true story!).

You’ll have to do some searching and browsing for part-time proofreader jobs but you’re sure to find something that suits your schedule and level of experience.

17. Writing Jobz

On Writing Jobz , you can apply for proofreading service jobs based on your level of experience as well as your schedule.

They offer proofreading assignments from manuscript content to academic writing.

18. Writer’s Job Shop

Writer’s Job Shop is an online resource for all kinds of freelancers – editors, copy editors and online proofreaders.

They advertise a steady stream of work through their job board. All you have to do is apply for the job you are interested in.

19. Writer’s Relief

Writer’s Relief is a service that helps creative writers get published by proofreading their submissions.

Applying to be a proofreader for Writer’s Relief is easy but they only accept a small number of applicants. Still, it’s worth trying!

20. Domainite

Domainite is a low-paying online proofreader platform but it is a great place for a beginner to gain experience – especially if you are struggling to land clients.

To get started, simply fill out the application form and edit a sample they provide.

21. Wordvice

Wordvice is a platform for all types of content writers, translators and freelance editors. You can always find proofreading jobs here.

Many of their clients are prestigious university and institutions like Stanford University and Columbia University.

22. Freelancer

Freelancer is yet another freelancing job board (noticing a trend here?) but they have jobs in editing and proofreading posted.

Job boards are a great way to drum up some one-off work for various clients, but you never know when one may turn into something long term!

23. Scribe Media

Scribe Media hires individuals as either full-time employees or freelancers.

They don’t always have jobs posted but you can sign up for job alerts when they do.

24. Gramlee

Gramlee states they are looking for editors but the job description seems to better describe proofreaders.

They offer quick turnaround time to clients which means there is always work available. All you have to do is fill out their application form to get started.

25. Start Your Own Business

If worse comes to worse, you can start your own proofreading business. All it takes is a website to get started.

I tend to write a lot about getting into the freelance writing biz – but the information I share is equally valuable if you are looking to start proofreading.

To get started, you’ll need a website that showcases your personality and samples of your work. You’ll also need to know how to market yourself to potential clients.

Taking this route means that you can be even more flexible about the type of clientele you accept the amount of work you take on.

Case Study: How to Find Your First Proofreading Job

Many of my freelance writing students also offer proofreading services and Wendy wanted to share her story of finding her first proofreading opportunity.

If you are struggling to find a proofreader job, check out how Wendy got started.

I took a proofreading course with Art of Proofreading online. But to be frank, the lessons were very basic and didn’t prepare me for what clients needed and wanted. Proofreading is more than catching errant commas and wrong spellings. It is very rules-based and if you want to make a career of it, you need expertise on publication style guides like Chicago or AP.

I found my first client from Upwork. A blogger who hires non-native English speakers to ghostwrite her posts. I was paid $5/1,000 words. Some articles were easy to proofread but some needed complete rewrite. She usually asks me to do the rewrites. That’s when I decided, I like writing more than proofreading.

I found Twitter and LinkedIn to be the best place to network with proofreaders and copy editors. There’s also a huge creative writing community on Twitter to engage with.  Other services to offer: Beta reading If you’re a member of the LGBTQ+, BIPOC, people with disability community, you can also offer sensitivity reading 

There are several associations that proofreaders can join. They offer courses, seminars, meetups and free resources. They also host Twitter chats regularly.

Aces: The Society for Editors(@copyeditors) EFA: Editorial Freelancers Association CIEP: Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading Editors Canada

As you can see, your first proofreading job may be low-paying but at least you are getting in the door.

Or, if you are a proofreader, share your wisdom and insight in the comments below.

While I suggest to freelance writers to stay away from content mills and freelance marketplaces like Upwork, it might prove to be a starting point for proofreading and editing jobs.

Ready to Get Started?

These are just 25 of the best places to find proofreading work for beginners. Once you have some proofreading experience under your belt, the possibilities are endless!

You don’t need an advanced education or fancy equipment to get started – just a strong grasp of the English language and soon you can call yourself a professional proofreader.

So what are you waiting for? Your side hustle awaits!

For more online jobs, check out these guides:

• 25 Online Editing Jobs to Make Money
• 25 Transcription Jobs for Beginners

Over to you: Let me know why you’re interested in proofreading as a side gig!

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26 Easy Proofreading Jobs Online (NO Experience Needed)

By: Author Mitch Glass

Posted on Last updated: December 14, 2023

Online proofreading jobs come with many perks — especially for all you grammar snobs out there.

You can work:

✔️ Wherever you want (one of the best jobs for digital nomads ) ✔️ Whenever you want ✔️ As much (or as little) as you want.

And the pay isn’t too shabby either. 

There’s just one problem:

Experience.

Many work-from-home proofreading jobs ask for loads of it, which begs the question…

Is it possible to find proofreading jobs online with no experience?

You bet it is.

Here’s exactly how to do it.

Table of Contents

What is a proofreader?

Who uses proofreaders, is it hard to get proofreading jobs from home with no experience, freelance proofreading vs. freelancing writing: which is better, how to find proofreading jobs online (no experience), 1. polished paper, 2. edit my english, 3. other companies to find entry-level proofreading jobs online (no experience), “recommended” proofreading companies that do not actually hire proofreaders without experience, 2. flexjobs, 3. other job boards to find proofreading jobs for beginners, facebook groups to find proofreading jobs online without experience, how to become a proofreader online, step-by-step, frequently asked questions.

A proofreader is an expert at correcting written language. They’re the ones tearing apart documents in red pen, hunting for mistakes, grammar mishaps, and formatting issues. 

Proofreaders are often confused with copy editors. Proofreaders focus on grammar, spelling, and formatting — the objective stuff. Editors, on the other hand, also scrutinize the structure, flow, and accuracy of the writing.

As a proofreader, you can work as a generalist or specialize in certain niches. 

You might feel like niching down will limit your number of potential clients. But specializing in one area — like medical, legal, or academic papers — can often make it easier to land work. 

Becoming an expert in certain proofreading niches can also lead to higher-paying jobs.

Proofreading is similar to transcription and scoping. Before diving headfirst into the world of proofreading, it’s worth investigating transcriptionist jobs and scopist jobs as well. 

Proofreading is a big deal for companies. If they publish content with errors, they instantly lose credibility with potential customers. 

Because of this, many do not trust software to catch mistakes for them. They want a second set of human eyeballs. 

Some examples of people who hire proofreaders include:

• Authors (books, magazines, newspapers, etc.) 
• Businesses (brand content, manuals, reports, etc.)
• Brands on social media
• Bloggers and content writers
• Marketing companies
• Entrepreneurs writing website copy
• Job seekers writing resumes and cover letters
• Academics publishing studies and research papers

Work-from-home proofreading jobs are flexible and low-stress, but is it really possible to start with no experience?

Of course it is. Every successful proofreader had no experience at one point.

The trick is finding ways to build that experience. The more you have, the easier it gets to find work. 

That said, there is a difference between no experience and no skills. 

To get proofreading jobs, you need to actually know how to proofread. 

That means memorizing spelling and grammar rules like the back of your hand. This is the hardest part. 

But if you learned it once upon a time in elementary school, you can learn it again. 

Just grab an English proofreading book , start studying, and — when you’ve mastered the skills — search for freelance proofreading jobs from home using the strategies below. 

If you want to cut down on the learning curve and start earning faster, you can also take an online proofreading course . 

That said, before paying for anything, it’s a good idea to take this free proofreading class . It’ll help you decide if proofreading is really for you, then show you tricks for attracting your first clients.

I’ve dug through various proofreading courses, so before pulling your wallet, check out my reviews to choose the best one.

• Proofread Anywhere review
• Knowadays review

If you decide proofreading is not for you, don’t fret. There are plenty of awesome freelance job options for beginners . 

If it is for you, here’s everything you need to know. 

How much do proofreaders make an hour?

According to salary data collected by Indeed, the average proofreader in the United States earns roughly $25 per hour (or almost $60,000 per year).

As a proofreading beginner, your rates depend on the quality of your clients and your work speed. 

You’ll likely have to work up to that $25-per-hour rate, but it’s doable. 

The maximum pay for freelance proofreaders is generally less than for freelance writers. 

This is because a good freelance writer is much harder to replace than a good proofreader. 

In a way, proofreading is easier than writing because you don’t have to “create” anything. All you have to do is modify what someone else already created. 

If you’re number one priority is a high income, look into freelance writing. 

I’ve personally made as much as $100/hour (after years of experience), so I can attest to the income potential.

I even made a free course to help you earn your first $1,000 as a freelance writer.

FREE 5-DAY COURSE

Learn the simple step-by-step process I used to easily land my first freelance clients and build a business I can run while traveling the world.

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That said, if the idea of staring at a blank page sounds daunting to you, then writing might not be your jam.

In that case, proofreading is an awesome option — here’s how to find proofreading jobs online.

There’s more than one way to find proofreading jobs online with no experience.

You can either work for a proofreading agency that sends you work and acts as a “middleman” between you and clients. Or you can use job boards and other resources to find and work with clients directly. 

Both options are viable ways to get proofreading jobs from home fast, but let’s start with proofreading agencies. 

Companies that hire proofreaders

If you don’t want to do the grunt work of finding clients on your own, you can join a proofreading company that finds work for you. 

Since you’re essentially working with a middleman, your rates won’t be quite as high. But if you consider the time you save searching for clients (time you’re not paid for), then it may work out in your favor. 

There’s a handful of companies that hire proofreaders with no experience, which makes it a great place to find entry-level proofreading jobs online.

But wait — do you need qualifications to be a proofreader online? 

Some companies may not require previous experience, but they do require a college degree of some sort. (Those are usually the academic proofreading jobs.)

Here’s a list of companies to find proofreading jobs for beginners.

Polished Paper is an awesome company for work-at-home proofreading jobs. They offer proofreading and editing services to clients who need a second set of eyes on:

✔️ Novels ✔️ Blog entries ✔️ Screenplays ✔️ Dissertations ✔️ Journal articles ✔️ Application essays ✔️ Personal statements  ✔️ Business documents ✔️ Resumes/cover letters

Their website doesn’t say anything requiring prior experience. But you will need to pass a 35-question test that shows you know your stuff. 

Edit My English is another online proofreader job that doesn’t require experience.

To proofread for Edit My English, you must be a U.S. citizen and have a degree from a U.S.-based university. 

All editors set their own hours, typically from 10 to 40 hours per week. You earn per page and receive 60% of the client payment. The faster you work, the higher your hourly rate.

There’s a whole slew of proofreading companies that don’t require experience.

To start your job search, check out:

• Kibin . A proofreading company that specializes in academic editing. Kibin needs freelance proofreaders who can offer fast, overnight turnaround times. You must pass a grammar/editing test to be approved. (Note: Kibin mentions that they hire “experienced editors” on their editor’s page, but experience is not mentioned as a requirement on their application page).
• Gramlee . A proofreading company for editing dissertations, copywriting, and other documents. Prior experience is not specified as a requirement.

Many articles online recommend proofreading companies to new proofreaders looking for jobs without experience. 

The problem is, most of the companies they recommend actually DO require experience. Some don’t even offer proofreading services at all!

That’s annoying. And it can end up wasting loads of your time.

To avoid that, here’s a list of recommended proofreading companies that require experience. 

Most of them do not specify how much proofreading experience you need, so feel free to check them out anyway if you have a little experience.

Note: You can save these as potential companies to work for in the future. Just not as your very first job.

• Sibia Proofreading . Proofreading company for fiction manuscripts, job applications, business memos, and doctoral dissertations. 
• Proofreading Pal . Proofreading services for authors, students, businesses, resumes, cover letters, etc.
• Proofreading Services . Proofreading company with 10K+ clients in over 100 countries.
• Edit Fast . Proofreading company for any type of document.
• Words RU . Proofreading company for any type of document. 
• Reedsy . Proofreading for fiction and non-fiction books.
• Wordvice . Proofreading for academic documents written by students, researchers, and business professionals.
• Proofreading.org/Cambridge Proofreading . UK-based company that hires US and UK editors. Purely academic proofreading. Several years of experience is required, plus a college degree and subject matter expertise. 
• Scribbr . Proofreading services for essays, theses, dissertations, etc. Must be a native English speaker with at least a bachelor’s degree, work a minimum of 10 hours a week, and have previous experience proofreading academic texts.
• Scribendi . Proofreading services for academics/students, authors, businesses, and individuals (resumes, cover letters, etc.). 3+ years of experience required in editing, writing, document production, or language-teaching, and an average proofreading speed of 1,000-1,500 words per hour to apply. 
• Quality Proofreading . Proofreading services for students, businesses, and individuals (resumes, cover letters, etc.). Must have an advanced degree from a UK/US institution and 3+ years of proofreading experience.
• Proofread Now . Offers proofreading services in both English and Spanish. “Rigorous” testing is required. 
• Wordy . Hires both editors and proofreaders, but the hiring process is temporarily paused. 

Finally, these companies are commonly recommended to new proofreaders, but in reality, they’re not actually proofreading companies:

• Lifetips. A site where you can share tips and knowledge on various topics.
• Kirkus. A book review company.
• Scribe Media (AKA Book in a Box). A publisher and coach for novelists.
• Babbletype. A translation and transcription service
• Domainite. An editing company (different skill set than proofreading).
• Cactus Global. An editing company (different skill set than proofreading).
• Jobsforeditors.com. An editing company (different skill set than proofreading).

Alrighty, now that we have those time-wasters out of the way, let’s dive into some job boards for proofreaders. 

Job boards to find proofreading jobs from home (no experience) 

Some of these job boards are specific for proofreaders. But most of them are general freelance marketplaces where you can search for proofreading gigs.

On these marketplaces, each job listing has its own specific experience requirements. Some require it; others don’t. Before applying, read each description carefully. 

Upwork is one of the most popular job boards to find online proofreading jobs – or any freelance jobs, for that matter. 

Upwork was originally formed in 2015 after Elance and O-Desk merged. 

Upwork has job postings for nearly every type of freelancing service, including graphic designers, IT specialists, writers, and you guessed it — proofreaders.

Clients post jobs in the marketplace, then freelancers compete against each other to win the job. 

The platform is known to be a bit oversaturated, so you’ll have to decide if Upwork is worth it to you or not. 

It’s full of opportunity, but also competition. Some people have made $10K/mo and even six-figure salaries on Upwork alone. 

Upwork takes a 20% cut of your pay until you make $500. After that, the fee lowers to 10%. 

Flexjobs is a curated job board specifically for remote and flexible online jobs — including proofreading jobs for beginners.

The nice thing about Flexjobs is that all the job postings on Flexjobs are reviewed by editors to catch scams and sketchy-looking ads.

Flexjobs charges a small monthly fee to use the platform, but you can request a refund if you’re not satisfied (like if you don’t find a job). 

That said, you can see all the proofreading job listings for free . Just type it into the search bar. 

Many listings on these job boards require no experience, but some opportunities do require experience.

• Problogger . Writing and editing jobs.
• Fiverr . Freelance opportunities, including proofreading and editing.
• Freelancer . Freelance opportunities, including proofreading and editing.
• LinkedIn . World’s largest business social site where you can connect with potential employers in your industry.
• Remote.co . Remote job listings in many different fields, including proofreading and editing.
• Indeed.com . Job board for all types of jobs, including remote proofreading and editing opportunities.
• Guru . Freelance opportunities, including proofreading and editing.
• People Per Hour . Freelance opportunities, including proofreading and editing.
• MediaBistro . Editing, proofreading, copywriting, graphic design, and other creative jobs.
• WritingJobz . Writing-related job opportunities, including editing and proofreading.
• The Editorial Freelancers Association . Matches businesses with proofreaders, editors, and writers.
• Kelly Services . Job board for a variety of industries, including proofreading and editing positions.
• Virtual Vocations . Job board for specific remote work niches, including editing and proofreading.

Recommended job boards that do not offer proofreading jobs online

Just like with the “proofreading companies” we covered that aren’t actually proofreading companies, there are also job boards that some sites recommend that don’t actually have proofreading jobs. 

• Lionbridge . Translation and interpretation services only.
• Toogit . Job board that does not have proofreading or editing job postings.

Facebook groups are always a great place to find legitimate proofreading jobs online. 

You can either post your offer and wait for opportunities to come your way, or you can search for clients searching for help. 

It’s worth hanging around the following groups to see if you attract some clients:

• Proofreaders Group . Proofreaders trading tips and news, as well as a place where clients come to find proofreading services.
• Beta Reading/Editing/Proofreading . Independent authors, blog writers, and artists post job opportunities for proofreading services.
• Proofreader Needed Today (general proofreaders and editors) . For proofreaders/editors to post their services and writers to post proofreading job opportunities.
• Binders Full of Remote Proofreading and Editing Jobs . A group where members can share proofreading and editing job opportunities.
• Freelance Content Writers, Content Editor, Proofreader & Digital Marketers . Group to offer job opportunities to content writers, digital marketers, editors, and proofreaders.
• Proofreading and Editing Services . Members can either post job opportunities or request them.
• Transcribing, Editing & Proofreading Services. Find or post job opportunities for transcribing, editing, and proofreading.

Remember, the goal isn’t to spam these groups with your services — that won’t fly.

Instead, interact with the group, help people, build relationships, and mention that you are a freelance proofreader. 

Alrighty, now that I’ve firehosed you with information. Let’s revamp how to become a proofreader online, step by step.

• Commit. Take this free course to be 100% sure proofreading is right for you (and learn how to grab your first clients). 
• Master your grammar. Pick up some proofreading books on Amazon or sign up for an online course.
• Build a minimal portfolio. Do a couple free or cheap projects for people in your network, or create sample projects of your own. You can showcase these in a nicely formatted Google doc, or create a simple website. 
• Cast your lines. Treat finding your first clients like a full-time job. Cast your line in all the places mentioned in this guide.

Once you find your first proofreading clients, give them amazing service, then ask for testimonials and referrals.

The bigger you build your portfolio, reputation, and network, the easier it gets to fill your pipeline with work.

Proofreading is a perfect job for students, especially because the rules of grammar are fresh in your mind. Freelance proofreading is also flexible, so you can work around your school schedule. When freelancing, there is no need to share how young you are unless a client asks. 

Proofreading doesn’t require experience, but the more experience you have, the easier it is to find work. Everyone starts somewhere, and the most important thing is having the skills to be a proofreader. Your main goal is to prove to clients that you can complete the job. 

You do not need any special qualifications to be a proofreader, but if you are specialized in certain areas, it may help you find jobs. A proofreading portfolio showcasing your skills can be more convincing to clients than qualifications that they probably have never heard of. 

The key to becoming a skilled proofreader is practice. The more you proofread, the easier it is to spot mistakes. The easier it is to spot mistakes, the faster you finish projects. And the faster you finish projects, the more you can earn per hour.

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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

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22 Best Online Proofreading Jobs for Beginners in 2024

This article may contain affiliate links. Please see our affiliate disclaimer in the footer menu for more information. Thank you for your support!

Are you a proofreader (or an aspiring one) who wants a comprehensive overview of the best online proofreading jobs for beginners? I’ve taken a ton of time to do the investigative work for you to find the best beginner-friendly opportunities and differentiate between companies that hire proofreaders vs. those that only hire editors who are sometimes tasked with proofreading.

A significant difference exists in the scope of work done by a proofreader vs. an editor. If you’re a proofreader like me, you certainly don’t want to take on a job that appears to be for a proofreader but is actually intended for an editor.

Also, if you’re serious about making decent money from proofreading, you’ll need adequate training. In case you haven’t gotten training, I penned a post about becoming a proofreader (with no experience) that discusses reputable proofreading courses.

If you’re prepared to proceed along the paved path to procure payment via online proofreading, let’s pound the pavement! 😉

Table of Contents

Om Proofreading Picks for Beginner Proofreaders

Here’s a glance at my preferences for the best jobs for those new to proofreading.

What Is Proofreading?

It’s essential to know precisely what proofreading entails when you’re looking for jobs.

Please refer to my post about proofreading if you have any doubts.

Proofreading involves finding and fixing punctuation, spelling, grammar, capitalization, and formatting errors. It also entails looking for misused words (usually homophones) and words that have been repeated or omitted.

My Research Process for Developing This Job List

It was often unclear which editorial professionals (proofreaders/copy editors/editors) companies hire because terms like proofreading and editing are used so loosely. Therefore, I reached out to these businesses. I’ve sent numerous emails, filled out several contact forms, and talked to customer service representatives.

I wanted to give you accurate information so you can save lots of time hunting for jobs!

Top-Notch Tip: When searching for proofreading jobs, read the job description carefully to ensure it’s what you’re looking for!

Since proofreading and copyediting overlap, I’ve included three businesses that hire copy editors at the end of this list.

Many proofreaders (including myself) learn copyediting to expand their skill set and make more money .

How This List Is Organized

I’ve grouped the jobs (all are entry-level) listed in this article according to where you can find them:

• Freelance Platforms
• Job Boards with Remote Work Listings
• Online Proofreading and Editing Companies

The online proofreading and editing companies are roughly organized from least to most selective .

Since job availability is subject to change, please visit the websites where you’re interested in applying to see the most up-to-date information.

Note : You’ll notice I haven’t given any information about expected pay rates since many businesses don’t include these numbers on their websites. (Of course, more selective companies tend to offer higher pay.)

Is Experience Needed for the Jobs in This Article?

None of the websites included in this article list proofreading experience as a requirement on their website, except ProofreadingPal. However, you can work for ProofreadingPal—no experience needed—if you meet their education requirement (listed in the next section below).

The job boards listed will have opportunities for beginners, but you’ll also find positions where experience is needed.

Is a Degree Needed for the Jobs in This Article?

Three of the online proofreading and editing companies on the list require applicants to have a college degree:

• Proofessor requires you to have a degree from a UK/Ireland university.
• ProofreadingPal wants you to have a bachelor’s degree and be enrolled in a US university as a grad student (with a minimum 3.5 GPA).
• CACTUS Communications (copy editors only) requires you to hold a master’s or PhD.

The Best Online Proofreading Jobs for Beginners

FREELANCE PLATFORMS

One of the best ways to start as a beginner proofreader is by working on a freelance platform.

These platforms are marketplaces that bring together buyers (clients) and sellers (freelancers).

Remember that although the platforms take a cut of your pay (usually 10%–20%), you’ll save a lot of time by not having to market yourself.

On the freelance platforms mentioned below, you set up a profile (it’s free) so clients can see who you are and what you offer.

Except for Fiverr, you need to write a proposal (a sales pitch) to every client you’re interested in working with. The most challenging part of selling your services on these marketplaces is getting your first few clients.

Fiverr is one of the most well-known freelance platforms, and it’s where I got my start.

I love that you don’t have to send proposals on Fiverr. Instead, clients come to you if they’re interested.

Fiverr takes 20% of everything you earn.

Requirements: Fiverr isn’t selective.

Availability: A boatload of clients on Fiverr need proofreading and copyediting services; however, you’ll have a lot of competition.

Since getting your first handful of clients will probably be your biggest challenge, I wrote this in-depth article: “How to Succeed on Fiverr: 41 Solid Tips for Fiverr Sellers.” Although the post is relevant to all Fiverr sellers, I customized it for proofreaders and copy editors since you all are my people! 😊

2) Freelancer

Freelancer is another popular freelance platform.

Freelancer takes 10% or $5 (whichever is greater) for fixed-price projects and 10% for hourly projects.

Requirements: Freelancer isn’t selective.

Availability: Proofreading and copyediting jobs are easy to find on Freelancer. Focus on creating a solid profile and writing short but sweet proposals tailored to each job.

Guru is a lesser-known platform, but it’s still a good option.

Of course, you don’t have to limit yourself to working on just one marketplace.

Guru takes 5%–9% of your earnings, depending on your membership plan. The basic plan is free, and the rest are paid. Here’s the link to see what you get with each plan.

Requirements: Guru isn’t selective.

Availability: Although many clients on this platform seek programmers and developers, you can still find numerous customers looking for proofreaders and copy editors. These jobs are listed in Guru’s “Writing & Translation” category.

You’ve probably heard about Upwork due to its popularity.

Upwork takes 10% of your pay.

Requirements: Upwork isn’t selective.

Availability: You’ll find plenty of proofreading and copyediting jobs on this platform!

5) PeoplePerHour

PeoplePerHour is another platform to consider. They allow you to send 15 proposals per month for free. You can purchase additional opportunities (credits) to send more proposals. These credits roll over each month if you don’t use them.

PeoplePerHour takes a percentage of your earnings according to your lifetime billings with each client.

Here’s the breakdown:

Requirements: They don’t mention specific requirements; however, you have to apply and be approved to work on the platform. If you’d like to start an application, please click here .

Availability: My guess from looking at this site is that it has fewer jobs than Fiverr, Freelancer, and Upwork. However, I think it’s still a good option since it’s a reasonably well-known platform.

6) Hubstaff Talent

Hubstaff Talent is a freelance marketplace where you can start a profile and upload your résumé. A great feature of this platform is that it doesn’t charge buyers or sellers any fees.

“Hubstaff Talent does not take any commission fees and is 100% free of charge.” – Hubstaff Talent

Requirements: You have to submit your profile for approval, which usually takes two business days. This article from Hubstaff Talent will help you through the process of creating a profile.

Availability: The last time I checked, I didn’t see any proofreading jobs. However, many freelancers with a profile on Hubstaff only offer proofreading services, so I assume relevant jobs are occasionally posted.

JOB BOARDS WITH REMOTE WORK LISTINGS

Job boards are another great place to search for freelance proofreading jobs.

These boards (except for FlexJobs) usually post in-house positions; however, you can find opportunities to work from home by typing “remote” into the job location search bar.

Below is a list of some of the most popular job boards online.

7) FlexJobs

FlexJobs has some excellent remote opportunities, but you have to pay to use their website. Here are the fees according to the period you subscribe to their site:

Their research team screens every job they display to ensure you find professional and legitimate opportunities. They have an A+ rating by the BBB and offer a satisfaction guarantee to their users:

“With FlexJobs’ Satisfaction Guarantee, if you are not satisfied with the quality of our service for any reason, simply cancel your subscription and request a refund (by phone, email, or our Client Service virtual chat) within 14 days of account creation or renewal. We will quickly and promptly process your refund.” – FlexJobs

8) Glassdoor

Glassdoor is a decent place to look for proofreading jobs and a super site to find out how well employees and freelancers rate companies.

The ratings on Glassdoor are based on factors like work/life balance, compensation and benefits, and senior management.

Indeed is another great spot to scope out potential jobs. After creating an account on Indeed, you can upload your résumé.

10) Mediabistro

Mediabistro is a site for all types of creative jobs. They occasionally have job opportunities for freelance proofreaders. You can upload your résumé after creating an account.

11) SimplyHired

SimplyHired is another site where you can scout out proofreading jobs. After establishing an account, you can upload your résumé.

12) LinkedIn

LinkedIn isn’t a job board; it’s a popular social networking site for professionals. But it has a board where you can search for remote jobs.

Click the briefcase icon (shown below) to visit the job board.

After creating a LinkedIn profile, you can put the #opentowork badge around your profile picture so recruiters and hiring managers know you’re available.

You can also download the LinkedIn app from the App Store or Google Play to receive notifications of new job opportunities while you’re out and about.

13) Google Jobs Results

This isn’t a job board either, but it’s worth mentioning.

By “Google jobs results,” I’m referring to a job list Google generates if you search in a specific way.

To see the jobs, first type a keyword into Google. Below, I searched for “online proofreading jobs for beginners.”

Next, I clicked on the “Work from home” tab directly below the search bar.

After scrolling down a bit, I saw the list of jobs that Google aggregated from websites:

ONLINE PROOFREADING AND EDITING COMPANIES

Numerous online companies provide proofreading, copyediting, and editing services to clients. They hire a pool of freelancers to do the work their customers need.

Some businesses only hire a small group of workers, so plenty of jobs are available for everyone.

However, other organizations hire so many people that finding consistent work is challenging.

The first company in this section is a crowdsourcing site. Crowdsourcing is relying on a large group of people (usually from the online community) to provide services and ideas.

14) Clickworker

Clickworker is a crowdsourcing platform. If you click the link above, you can learn more about the proofreading jobs offered on this site and register as a Clickworker. After registration, you can take relevant tests to demonstrate your skills.

Requirements: Clickworker isn’t selective.

They say you need to have a strong command of your native language and be able to follow instructions. You have to qualify to take on a few “text creation” jobs before taking the proofreader assessment exam, which you can only take once.

Availability: After you register for a Clickworker account, you’ll gain access to available jobs. Those who continually deliver high-quality work gain access to higher-paying gigs.

However, the consensus is that the pay is quite low, which makes sense due to the lack of selectivity.

15) R3ciprocity

Professor David Maslach is the creator of R3ciprocity. He’s a chemical engineer with a doctorate in strategic management.

David created the platform for academics and grad students to give each other feedback on their writing.

When you edit or proofread the work of others, you earn credits. You can use the credits to have someone edit or proofread your writing.

The platform works on the simple principle of give and take.

Before you can work on other people’s writing, you need to be approved by a R3ciprocity admin. You’ll be required to work on several documents that are less than one page long.

I’ve emailed Dave, and he’s super helpful and kind!

It’s possible to be paid to work on this platform after the admin team receives enough feedback about your work.

Requirements: Anyone can participate on R3ciprocity; however, you’ll need the admin team to verify your skills before you can work for money. The platform charges a minimal fee on each paid transaction.

Availability: To learn about opportunities for paid work, you’ll need to create a profile . You can reach out to the support team from the “contact us” section of your profile.

I’m not sure how much money you can make on R3ciprocity, but it’s a great platform to hone your proofreading skills by helping others. And if you need someone to proofread your writing, you can use your credits.

Here’s a brief video from Dave showing how things work on his site.

16) Grammar Chic

Grammar Chic provides a variety of services including editing, writing, and formatting. They hire proofreaders, copy editors, and editors.

Requirements: I recommend emailing them at [email protected] to learn about their current requirements.

Availability: Unknown

17) Proofessor

Based in the UK, Proofessor provides proofreading, editing, rewriting, paraphrasing services, and more.

Requirements: You need to be a native English speaker who has graduated from a UK/Ireland university. You must also have a strong command of English and achieve an excellent score on their tests.

18) ProofreadingPal

ProofreadingPal provides proofreading and copyediting for a broad range of documents.

They hire proofreaders and copy editors.

Requirements: To work for ProofreadingPal, you need to meet one of the following criteria:

• Be employed by or enrolled as a graduate or postgraduate student in an accredited US university or college and have a GPA of 3.5 or above
• Have a graduate degree and at least five years of proofreading and editing experience (By “editing” experience, they’re referring to copyediting experience.)

Please visit their website for other preferred qualifications.

Availability: They’re looking for qualified candidates who meet one of the requirements mentioned above. If you’re qualified, you can fill out their brief independent contractor questionnaire .

A ProofreadingPal representative will contact you within five to ten business days. They’ll tell you about the next step of their hiring process, which involves a comprehensive timed exam.

19) Writer’s Relief

Writer’s Relief helps writers who want to get published. I spoke with someone on live chat who said they hire proofreaders from time to time.

Requirements: They prefer proofreaders with experience, but beginners are welcome to apply too. However, according to their website, they only hire the top 2% of applicants.

Here’s what the staff member from Writer’s Relief told me about their hiring process:

“We primarily will refer to the proofreading test given, but having proofreading experience would certainly be helpful.” – Writer’s Relief Staff

20) Gramlee (Copy Editors Only)

Gramlee offers editing, copyediting, and proofreading services. They only hire copy editors and editors.

Requirements: They don’t mention any specific requirements on their site.

Availability: They’re always looking for extraordinary copy editors and editors. If you’d like to work for Gramlee, you can complete the employment application on their website.

They have one application for content editors and one for dissertation editors.

21) EditorLive (Copy Editors Only)

EditorLive.com was created to provide highly qualified editors with a steady stream of work.

They hire editors who are also responsible for proofreading documents. But it may be possible to acquire a job as a copy editor if you can correct the “flow” of texts—a task typically completed by line editors.

Requirements: You need to have experience writing academic papers on various topics and be familiar with Chicago, APA, AP, MLA, CSE, and other style guides. Please see their website for the complete list of requirements and qualifications.

If you meet all the requirements on their site, you can fill out the application and take the editing test.

Availability: They’re currently seeking qualified editors. However, they only hire editors who live in the following states: Texas, Georgia, Massachusetts, Nevada, and Colorado.

22) CACTUS Communications (Copy Editors Only)

CACTUS Communications aims to make scientific knowledge accessible to everyone worldwide, aiding the development of societies and improving people’s lives.

Requirements: None listed. However, about a year ago they required you to have a master’s or PhD in one or more specialized subject areas in the following:

• physical sciences
• engineering
• materials science
• life sciences

Prior experience was preferred but not mandatory.

Availability: You can check their website to see if they have opportunities for copy editors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are proofreaders still needed.

Yes, proofreaders are still needed.

People’s written word is a reflection of them in their absence. Since errors in writing can undermine someone’s authority and make them look careless, people seek out proofreaders.

Professionals, entrepreneurs, researchers, students, and job seekers are all examples of people who hire a second pair of eyes to proofread their content.  

I authored an article about whether proofreaders are still necessary if you’d like to delve deeper into this topic.

How do I get my first proofreading job?

You can employ various tactics to land your first proofreading job.

When fishing for work, it helps to have multiple lines in the water to increase your odds of snagging a gig. But you don’t want to cast so many lines that they become tangled because they’re too much to manage.

Start with a few methods you think will work best, and put all your focus on those.

Here are some solid strategies:

1) Start your own proofreading business online.

Even if your clients don’t find you there initially, having a website shows you’re committed to proofreading. You can display certificates, credentials, and testimonials on your site to attract customers.

Another way to snag your first gig is to hand out business cards to brick-and-mortar companies that may need your services.

Include your website address on your business cards so they can learn more about you.

2) Cold email potential clients.

I know this may not be people’s preferred method, but it can work. If you send thoughtful, tactful, and personalized emails to clients you’d like to work with, you may land some jobs.

For example, try reaching out to the site owners of blogs you enjoy reading.

First, let them know how much you enjoy their content. Then, let them know how you can help.

Although I’m not a fan of advocating that proofreaders do free work, offering a free sample edit can be a way to show the value you can provide. A sample edit means you proofread a small portion (maybe 500 words) of someone’s writing.

3) Establish a profile on LinkedIn.

Even if you choose not to use LinkedIn’s job board to search for proofreading opportunities, I recommend creating a profile on the site.

For best results, fill out your profile completely, and include the badge around your profile picture indicating you’re open to work.

It’s not too difficult to get set up on the site, and your profile can work for you in the background while you take steps that require more effort.

4) Network with other proofreaders and writers.

You can find groups for proofreaders and writers on Facebook and LinkedIn. Joining these groups can lead to information about proofreading companies that are hiring or writers who need a second set of eyes.

To get the most out of these groups, focus on adding value .

Try answering people’s questions and offering helpful information and advice. Then, if the group allows it, you can pitch your services. Just make sure not to come across as too spammy since this can cause more harm than good.

I wrote an article about finding proofreading clients if you’d like a few more ideas about how to get your first job.

How much do beginner online proofreaders make?

According to ZipRecruiter , as of August 2024, the average yearly salary for an online proofreader in the United States is $57,520.

This amount translates to about $28 per hour.

ZipRecruiter shows that the majority of online proofreader salaries range from $42,500 (25th percentile) to $70,000 (75th percentile).

As a beginner proofreader, you can expect to make a salary toward the lower end of this range.

Novice proofreaders make roughly $12–$18 per hour.

Can proofreaders work from home?

Yes! Proofreaders can be home-based .

You’ll find options for part-time and full-time remote proofreading work.

How can I become a proofreader online with no experience?

To become a proofreader online, I recommend taking a reputable proofreading course so you’ll be in a good position to land jobs.

Proofreading entails more than most people realize, so getting proper training is essential.

A comprehensive proofreading class will teach you the needed skills, give you confidence, and enable you to compete with other proofreaders who have received formal training.

What skills and qualifications do I need to be a proofreader?

The only qualification you need to be a proofreader is the appropriate skill set. I created an article about the necessary set of proofreading skills if you’d like to know more.

Although some proofreading jobs require a degree (usually in English or journalism), plenty of opportunities are available to those without a degree.

Finally, having a proofreading certificate is preferable but not absolutely necessary.

Having one gives you an edge since it shows potential clients you’ve received training for the job.

Is proofreading a good side hustle?

Proofreading is a good side hustle because it requires minimal startup costs and can be learned relatively quickly.

Another advantage is that proofreading can be done from home. You can even proofread while you travel as long as you have a solid internet connection.

Om Proofreading has an article about the reasons why proofreading is a great side job if you’d like to learn more.

What tools do online proofreaders need for their work?

Fortunately, online proofreaders don’t need an abundance of expensive tools .

They need a laptop or desktop computer and a stable internet connection. I prefer a laptop so I can be around people while I work.

We can divide the other tools you need into two categories: software and books .

The Software You Need

Online proofreaders need two word processors:

• Microsoft Word
• Google Docs

You’ll need a paid version of MS Word.

Free versions aren’t suitable since they can cause formatting problems and don’t offer the same protection for clients’ documents as the paid version.

Proofreaders use the Track Changes feature in MS Word to work on texts.

The earliest version of Word I’d recommend is 2016.

Support for Microsoft Word 2013 ended in April 2023 .

With Google Docs (it’s free), you’ll learn to use the Suggesting feature.

Some proofreaders may want to learn how to use Adobe Acrobat software so they can proofread PDFs. However, this software isn’t necessary since most documents are proofread using Word or Google Docs.

Two Optional Tools for Proofreaders

You may want to consider two other tools to improve your efficiency:

I wrote an in-depth review of Grammarly and a detailed review of PerfectIt if you’d like to know more about how these software programs can help you proofread people’s prose.

The Reference Books You Need

At a minimum, you’ll need two books:

• a good dictionary
• a style guide

I use Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary , 11th Edition , since it’s the dictionary recommended by the most thorough style guide available— The Chicago Manual of Style (CMOS).

I refer to CMOS for most of my proofreading work. It’s one of the most frequently used and reputable guides and the gold standard in the US book publishing industry.

Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary , 11th Edition , and CMOS are available online and as hard copies.

If you’d like to learn about other popular style guides, I discuss them in my post about suggested books for proofreaders .

You may also want to consider purchasing The Best Punctuation Book, Period . It’s inexpensive and beloved by people who work on error patrol! 😉I talk about this book in the post I linked to in the previous paragraph.

What’s the difference between proofreading, copyediting, and editing?

Proofreaders correct grammar, punctuation, capitalization, spelling, and formatting errors. They work at the word level to catch mistakes that were overlooked during previous editing stages.

Copy editors work at the sentence level. Their primary focus is to make writing clear, concise, consistent, comprehensive, and correct. They also fix the same types of mistakes that proofreaders do.

Line editors and developmental editors work at the paragraph level and on the overall document, respectively. Line editors focus on improving a text’s language, and developmental editors improve the text’s content and structure.

If you’re an editor, I published a post about jobs for developmental and line editors .

I sincerely hope this article has given you many avenues to find online proofreading work if you’re a beginner.

After you get some experience, you can check out my article about online proofreading work for experienced proofreaders to find more lucrative options.

I wish you luck as you progress on your proofreading path. May it be paved with platinum!

Best wishes to you!

“Be the reason someone smiles. Be the reason someone feels loved and believes in the goodness in people.” – Roy T. Bennett

Lindsay Babcock

Lindsay is the creator of Om Proofreading. She has a BA in psychology and earned a certificate in proofreading by passing the final exam in Proofread Anywhere’s general proofreading course. She shares what she’s learning in the field and through research to inform and inspire her readers.

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14 Best Online Proofreading Job Sites

R.J. Weiss, CFP®

• Updated June 23, 2024

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

The Best Online Proofreading Jobs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#3. FlexJobs

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

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

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

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

#4. WordsRU

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

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

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

#5. Scribbr

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

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

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

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

#6. Wordvice

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

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

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

#7. ProofreadingServices.com

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

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

#8. Gramlee

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

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

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

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

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

#10. Proofreading Pal

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

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

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

#11. Scribendi

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

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

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

#12. Braintrust

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

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

#13. Scribe Media

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

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

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

See the Scribe Media careers page for more information

#14. Various Online Job Boards

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

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

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

Skills Needed for Online Proofreading Jobs

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

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

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

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

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

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

Learn How to Become a Proofreader

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

Proofreading Jobs FAQ

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Best Online Proofreading Job Sites: Final Thoughts

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

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

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Make Money Proofreading Text: Top 10 Websites

• by Michelle
• March 3, 2024

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

Websites that Pay you to Proofread

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

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

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

ProofreadingServices

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

Polished Paper

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

Cactus Global

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

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

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

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

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

Writer Access

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

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

RELATED GUIDES

• 8 Websites to Make Money with Your Proofreading Skills
• 9 Websites to Make Money as an Academic Writer

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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?

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35 Best Online Proofreading Jobs For Beginners [$50/hr, No Degree]

Becoming an online proofreader is a job that is flexible and easy to do when you need to make cash.

Proofreading is an important part of writing. It can be done at any time and anywhere, even online, making it perfect for a stay-at-home mom, a second job, or even working from home.

Without proofreaders, where would the world be? There would be a lot of misspelled words in the world. Have you ever wondered if you would be a good proofreader? There is only one way to find out and that is to give it a try. 

Below, I’ll go into detail about how to become an online proofreader and the best companies hiring for online proofreading jobs for beginners.

As an affiliate partner of various brands and sponsored content, HerPaperRoute may earn commission on qualifying purchases. Disclaimer | Advertise With Us

Earn Money Working From Home With Online Proofreading Jobs

If you’re looking for some info fast, here are my quick picks. First, get the free training you need to start your proofreading journey.

Entry-Level Proofreading Jobs

Experienced proofreading jobs.

• Proofreading Pal
• Polished Paper

What Is Proofreading?

A proofreader ensures that written content is free from grammatical errors including spelling mistakes, typography, formatting, and syntax.

If you are new to proofreading or really don’t understand what it is, then I want to spend some time talking about it. There are many reasons to have a proofreader.

✅ Here’s a FREE workshop that teaches you everything you need to know to get started proofreading online.

Proofreading vs Copy Editing

Proofreading and copy-editing are sometimes mixed up or used interchangeably. Knowing the difference can help you when looking and applying for online proofreading jobs.

Proofreading involves examining your text to find any mistakes in grammar, style, spelling, and typographical errors. A proofreader is involved with the nitty-gritty of the text.

Editing is correcting, condensing, or changing a draft in preparation for publication. An editor provides editing services and is involved with the big picture of the document.

Are Proofreaders In Demand?

Yes, they are and the demand is increasing yearly according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics . With so many people forming online businesses, the demand keeps rising which increases the available job opportunities.

Bloggers, brands, small businesses, authors, and companies all hire proofreaders to make sure there are no typographical errors. Some foreign businesses will hire a native English-speaking proofreader to go over their website and make grammatical changes.

Pros vs Cons Of Proofreading

• Start-up costs are very low for a proofreading business compared to other businesses.
• You can work from home and the scheduling is flexible.
• Manage your own time so perfect for someone who can work well unsupervised.
• Perfect for people who are good at spotting grammatical mistakes.
• Easy to start proofreading small as a side hustle and expand later.
• High demand for proofreaders with plenty of opportunities.
• There can be tight deadlines or strict guidelines you need to follow.
• Many jobs for proofreaders may require additional education.
• Not good for someone easily distracted or who needs to be in a closely supervised position.

How Much Money Can You Make Proofreading?

According to salary.com the median salary for an online proofreader is $52,202 per year.

Keep in mind that the amount of money a proofreader makes will be dependent on how fast they work per hour. Some proofreading freelancers make anywhere from $25-$50 per hour.

It also depends on your past proofreading experience or experience in editing. The more experience and skills you have, the more money you will make per hour. 

If you work for yourself, you get to determine how much you make. If you work for someone else, they are going to determine how much you make per hour.

What Skills Do I Need To Become A Freelance Online Proofreader?

To build up a good reputation as a proofreader, you should be able to spot mistakes quickly and easily. Having excellent grammar and spelling skills is a must.

Additionally, you need to be able to slow down to find mistakes that the original writer missed. Many times our minds can read misspelled words correctly and we don’t even notice. If you rush through proofreading a document, these types of errors may slip through and your potential clients will be unhappy.

Do I Need To Have A Degree To Proofread?

If you’re doing freelance proofreading, a degree isn’t necessary. Experience and results matter more to clients who are hiring independent proofreaders.

Depending on the client, they may require an advanced degree in English or journalism if getting hired as a company employee. If you don’t have this, don’t worry.

For many clients, your track record and reputation are more than enough for them to want to hire you. You may be fine landing remote proofreading jobs simply by being skilled in the English writing process and editing rules.

Learn how you can start your own proofreading business with low startup costs.

Where To Get At-Home Proofreading Training?

Proofreading isn’t just for word nerds or English majors. Anyone can proofread and the flexibility is great for a stay-at-home mom or someone who wants to work more flexible hours.

This completely FREE workshop from Caitlyn Pyle at Proofread Anywhere is value-packed and perfect for those on the fence. The workshop helps get you started proofreading with tips on maximizing skills and where to find clients.

If you’re still unsure, check out my complete review of the Proofread Anywhere course.

Tools For The Online Proofreader

If you are going to work online as a proofreader, it may be wise to invest in some technology that will help you make the most of the time. There are many tools out there, but here are a few of my favorites:

Grammarly – Many people have started using Google Docs, which is great for Grammarly users because there is a free extension. You can use the free version or you can use the paid version. Use whatever you think will help you the best!

Learn How To Produce High-Value Content !

Spellchecker – Don’t forget to use the proofreader you have on the word processor that you’re using. Sometimes we forget to use the most basic tool on our computers that can still help us save face with an error or two!

Ginger – A proofreader tool that you can take advantage of is Ginger. This tool can help you find more advanced issues that you otherwise may have missed! 

Google Docs – This is the most common and easy way that documents are sent. It only requires a free Google Drive account. Your client can send you a link to the document that you’re able to make changes to.

Dropbox – If your client doesn’t use Google Docs, then Dropbox is probably the next most common document-sharing method. The free account is perfectly fine for getting started.

39 Best Online Proofreading Jobs For Beginners

It can sometimes seem like an endless loop of rejection when trying to break into a new field. You can’t get hired without experience but you can’t get experience without getting hired.

The following companies allow you to post your freelance proofreading services or be hired for online proofreading or editing. With online business, there’s no need to put all your eggs in one basket.

Go ahead and check out multiple proofreading avenues and job opportunities. Each business will have a different application process. Certain clients may prefer one platform over another but you won’t know that until you test it out.

Here are the best companies that hire beginner online proofreaders:

One of the first places to start with online proofreading jobs for beginners is UpWork . I enjoy telling people about this online work-from-home platform because it’s a place for people of all types of experiences. 

Head over to Upwork.com to apply for beginner editing positions. Upwork is a really great place to start your work-from-home journey, especially your proofreading journey. 

Want to find freelance proofreading jobs for a beginner? Fiverr.com may be one of your first stops. This is a website that has been around for a few years. However, it’s for proofreaders of all types. 

Signing up for Fiverr means you can sell your proofreading services and make a small amount of cash at first. As time goes on, you’ll be able to earn more money! 

3. Lionbridge

Are you looking for a full-time online proofreading job? Lionbridge is a great place to start. Lionbridge offers several different types of work-from-home jobs, but one of their most popular ones is proofreading.

While you do need a little experience to get started, Lionbridge has a great reputation and this may be a good place for you to start. If you prove you can do well with various proofreading tasks such as checking for spelling errors, compositional errors, and correct grammar mistakes, you can earn decent money.

4. ProofreadingServices.com

When you want to want to become a proofreader, you may not know where to start. ProofreadingServices.com is a great starting point for proofreaders.

When you work with this company, you get a flexible schedule, competitive pay, and the ability to connect with other proofreaders. 

5. Start Your Own Business

I think one of the best online proofreading jobs for beginners is starting your own proofreading business . You can make it as simple as starting a website or as complex as starting a Facebook page.

Starting your own Freelance proofreading business means you can work when you want and also take on a small number of clients to get experience. Some would say that owning your own business is one of the best online proofreading jobs for beginners since it has a low startup cost. 

6. Craigslist

Believe it not, but Craigslist has gotten a lot more stable in the job department. If you head to Craiglist in any city and look in the “writing and editing” section, you may be able to find many gigs that you can apply for! 

I love Craigslist because you can find opportunities that aren’t boring. You may be able to find private clients this way, which is always fun! Just remember that working from home never costs money and you should never have to pay to work from home. 

Another online place to look for proofreading jobs is Guru.com . Whether you have zero experience or several months of experience, you may be able to find a proofreading gig on this platform.

This is a platform that has been around forever and you may just find success with it. 

A lot of people would compare Guru.com to Fiverr, but I think any platform can be good for you if you take the time to make it work in your favor. Fill out the profile correctly and don’t stop until you find a groove! 

8. LinkedIn

Although LinkedIn is one of those places that is hard to remember still exists, it does and it’s an awesome place to find proofreading jobs.

When it comes to LinkedIn, there are a lot of jobs and you may not get lucky at first. Keep trying and applying and in no time, you’ll land your first proofreading job! 

9. Freelancer

Freelancer is a site very similar to UpWork since it’s a freelance marketplace. It’s open to a variety of freelancers, not solely proofreaders.

After you fill out your profile, you can bid on posted jobs that people are trying to hire for.

10. SmartBrief

SmartBrief is a digital media publisher that targets business news and industry information. Frequently check their job openings for a work-from-home editor and proofreading jobs that pay around $15/hr.

11. Polished Paper

Polished Paper is for more experienced proofreaders and they pay accordingly. To sign up, fill out their application and take the 35-question test.

It sounds a little intense but they pride themselves on first-class service. They want to make sure you can catch some of the tougher errors that less experienced proofreaders may miss.

12. Scribbr

Scribbr makes all interested exceptional editors take an initial language quiz. If you pass, they’ll then look over your CV to determine whether you’d be a good fit for them.

If they think you’re a good fit, you’ll be invited to the Scribbr Academy where you’ll edit 2-5 simulation orders. Scribbr will critique your proofreading and give you tips.

Once you pass the academy, you’ll be a qualified Scribbr editor and get paid.

13. Domainite

Domainite is an option for the true beginner proofreader but be warned, they are one of the lowest paid. It’s perfect for gaining experience if you’re having trouble landing clients.

To get accepted as a freelancer, you’ll need to fill out their application including sample letters to show off your work.

14. Edit911

Edit911 only hires people with a Ph.D., published scholars, teachers, or book editors with verifiable experience.

The qualifications are quite high but if you meet their qualifications and are looking to enter the freelance proofreading world, this is a great option.

15. FlexJobs

FlexJobs is a site that has freelance jobs in many specialties including copy editing, website proofreading, and other freelance editing jobs that allow you to type from home. Do a general search for “online proofreading” in order to find who is looking to hire.

Often, you don’t need to narrow down the job postings by location since you can do them remotely from home.

16. ClickWorker

Clickworker uses crowdsourcing for the completion of micro tasks for their clients. Every clickworker is an independent contractor who can log in and look at the available jobs.

These tasks are generally broken into smaller projects and part of a larger project. They won’t take as long as a huge proofreading job so it’s great for beginners to get their feet wet.

To become a Clickworker proofreader, you first have to start as a author to gain experience. Then after completing a few text creation jobs, you’re eligible to take the proofreading assessment test. If you pass, you’ll be able to access the available proofreading jobs.

17. Wordvice

Wordvice offers both proofreading and editing services. They ask that you’ve completed a graduate program but they do offer remote, part-time work.

They have a lot of ESL (english as a second language) clients worldwide who are looking for native english proofreaders. The application will have you complete an editing sample and they’ll notify you by email whether you’ve been accepted.

18. OneSpace

OneSpace will post their jobs as they become available. Some are available as remote work whereas others are not so it’s important to read the job description to determine which.

19. CACTUS Communications

CACTUS Communications offers proofreading jobs either freelance or full-time. They specialize in specific proofreading topics and ask that you have a degree in the field you’d be editing in.

Some of the fields include medical, biology, molecular, physical sciences, and more. Check their website to see what they’re currently hiring for.

20. EditFast

On EditFast , you create a profile and resume in their system. Clients looking to hire a proofreader will look at your samples and decide whether or not to pick you.

They are mainly looking for people familiar with the proofreading and editing process who can proof business papers with a fairly fast turnaround.

One thing to note is that all communication must go through the EditFast system and EditFast keeps 40% of the final total project price.

21. Gramlee

Gramlee says they are always looking for proofreaders to hire. They are a general proofreading company so it could be a wide variety of categories.

Applying is a simple process. Answer a few questions on the Employee Application form and they’ll get back to you.

22. Kirkus Media

Kirkus Media offers services for authors to have their books edited and reviewed. They often have job listings for book reviewers or at-home editors for their magazine.

23. Scribe Media

You can join Scribe Media (formerly Book in a Box) as a full-time employee or a freelancer. On their website, you can explore what each path entails to determine which would work best for you.

They are mainly hiring freelance editors for book editing so if book editing is your interest, this is a good company to follow. If they don’t have any open positions currently, join their email list and they’ll let you know when more open up.

24. Get Editing Jobs

This is a community hub for anyone searching for help with their text. Get Editing Jobs includes editing, proofreading, and specialty writing.

Since this is a freelance jobs directory, you’ll have to use the search bar to find proofreading jobs to apply for. Many of the jobs are virtual but some companies are looking for in-person permanent hires too.

25. Proofreading Pal

The average pay for a Proofreading Pal editor is between $500 to $3000 per month. You can even do this proofreading job while still in college!

They are looking to hire current graduate and post-graduate college students who have a GPA of 3.5 and higher. Alternatively, they’re also looking for proofreaders and exceptional editors with a graduate degree and 5 years of experience.

So if you’re in a graduate degree program or have a university degree, check them out. You need to be able to follow style guides, including those for academic papers.

Before you get started, you’ll first need to take a 20-minute proofreading test.

26. Writer’s Job Shop

Writer’s Job Shop is a job marketplace for proofreaders and other writing freelancers. They’re always looking to add additional proofreaders and essay editors to their team.

They require that you have a native-level grasp of the english language and a degree in any field before applying.

27. American Journal Experts

American Journal Expert’s jobs are topic-specific and updated frequently. You can do them from anywhere since they’re all remote.

All positions are for independent contractors. The application is straightforward and can be auto-filled using Indeed if you already have a job profile with them.

28. Writer’s Relief

Writer’s Relief helps creative writers get published. Authors submit their writing and Writer’s Relief proofreaders check over their submissions.

It’s a simple application but they only accept a very small percentage of applicants.

29. Managed Editing

Managed Editing hires independent contractors who have a degree and a few years of relevant editing experience or editing skills. They offer editorial services and publication production.

Their application asks what subject matter you have proven proofreading skills in. They may follow up by asking for examples of your work or give you a test on the topic.

30. MediaBistro

MediaBistro is a hub for all media-related jobs from marketing, sales, design, and writing/editing. Use the search function to find jobs in the proofreading field.

One perk is that MediaBistro lets you sign up for job alerts for certain keywords. You’ll get notified by email if a new job shows up in the proofreading sector after you set up those alerts.

31. OneSpace Freelancers

OnceSpace Freelancers is a job marketplace specifically for freelancers. It’s a place to check in periodically to see if they have any freelance proofreading jobs available.

You can also submit your application to them and they’ll keep in contact if they have any jobs that fit your skillset.

Reedsy works mainly with authors and writers. Once you sign up, you’ll create a profile and the Reedsy algorithm will pair you with clients it thinks you’ll be a good fit for.

There are over 100,000 people in the marketplace and many are first-time authors looking to self-publish their books. The community is free to join and then you get to keep 90% of your commission while Reedsy takes 10%.

33. Writing Jobz

Writing Jobz is one of the best marketplaces for online proofreaders because it’s all they focus on. They specialize in academic proofreading, academic editing, proofreading articles for online blogs and news sources, and book proofreading.

You start by taking a language test, then you can build up a client database as you take on more and more projects. As a proofreader, you can earn up to $11 per page.

34. Scribendi

Scribendi is a proofreading platform perfect for someone who has a college degree. They allow you to create your own schedule working from home and the pay is good.

Other qualifiers are that they want native English speakers, at least 3 years of editing/proofreading experience, and a speed of 1,000 to 1,500 words per hour.

35. R3ciprocity

R3ciprocity , pronounced “reciprocity”, is a proofreading and editing platform based on credits. After you sign up, you can proofread other’s work and earn credits. You can use these credits to get your own work proofread.

This is great for authors or someone who wants a reciprocal proofreading situation. It can also earn money though. If you earn credits, you can cash them out instead of using them to proofread items of your own.

36. Proofreading Services

Proofreading Services is great for beginners all the way to expert proofreaders who are looking for flexible typing work from home. If you’re looking for remote proofreading jobs, they offer remote telework proofreading where you can earn between $19 to $46 an hour depending on the job.

Projects with more urgent deadlines or that require specialized knowledge will pay higher as well as those with a quick turnaround time.

37. Contenta

Contenta calls itself the #1 site for freelancers and remote writers. After you join as a freelance proofreader, the website acts as a job board where companies looking for freelance proofreaders can post jobs.

This is a membership site with a monthly fee which can be both beneficial and detrimental. A paid job board will likely have more serious clients looking for remote proofreaders and editors so the jobs posted may be of higher quality.

The downside is that when you’re just starting out, you need to weigh whether a monthly cost is worth it.

38. Book Editing Associates

Book Editing Associates is for intermediate and higher proofreaders. They especially want someone with experience in the self-published book field and will give you a proofreading and copyediting test you need to pass.

A few other things to note for Book Editing Associates is that they’re looking for proofreaders from time to time who are doing this as their main job. You need to be completely freelance and not only do this as a side hustle or have a second job.

They’ll also want to see examples of self-published books you’ve edited and proofread so this is a good company to apply to after you have over 5 years of experience with book proofreading.

39. ProofreadNOW

ProofreadNOW is for expert or advanced proofreaders, editors, copyeditors, or translators, with over 5 years of experience. They’re not always hiring but they do have a proofreading employment newsletter you can join to get notified when they are.

Many of their professional proofreaders, writers, and editors specialize in fields such as finance, medical, technology, and law. They also may have knowledge of Spanish since Spanish document translation is offered.

How To Get An Online Proofreader Job

Now that you know all of the jobs available and companies hiring skilled proofreaders, you may be wondering how to land an online proofreading job.

Just like with any job, it will take some effort in order to land a proofreading job as a beginner. Here are a few ways to make yourself more desirable:

• On rating sites, like Fiverr , offer your first few clients a discount in exchange for an honest review in order to get initial business.
• I recommend this FREE online workshop .
• Don’t forget about Facebook Groups.
• Consider courtroom transcript proofreading to diversify your talents.
• Promote, promote, promote!

If you’re not quite sure what to search for when looking for proofreading jobs, here are the most common terms to search for:

• Proofreading independent contractor
• Freelance proofreader
• Proofreading positions
• Beginner proofreading jobs
• Online proofreading jobs
• Remote proofreader
• Copy editing
• Editing jobs
• Book editing
• Remote editor
• Academic editor
• Web site proofreading
• Book proofreader
• Online typing jobs
• Typewriting jobs

Currently, there aren’t any certifications required to become a proofreader. Your finished work and happy clients are what promote you.

Proofreading Jobs Overview

Proofreading is a great job for someone who will take the time to learn proper grammar and produce high-quality content. It doesn’t matter if you’re a proofreading beginner as long as your results are good.

Since most proofreading jobs can be done online and at home, stay-at-home moms can make the jobs fit their free time. Early morning or late night work hours don’t matter since you’re your own boss and not tethered to traditional business time.

If you’re an online proofreader, let me know in the comments how you like it. Did it give you the freedom you were looking for?

Related Articles:

• Ultimate List Of Jobs for Stay-At-Home Moms
• Become A Social Media Manager With No Experience
• Best Apps To Sell Your Phone Photos For Extra Cash

Chelsea Clarke is a Business Intermediary, Investor, and Educator. As the founder of HerPaperRoute, Chelsea provides entrepreneurs with the tools they need to create an optimum lifestyle design that balances their entrepreneurial pursuits with marketing strategy, growth mindset, and success habits for mental wellness. Featured in Business Insider, MSN, Tech Times and more, Chelsea mentors her community of more than 100,000 business owners on how to build profitable, sustainable digital companies.

How to work with Chelsea: DM me the word blogstart on Instagram to get access to my new private training for creators, for $0!

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41 comments.

I so appreciate this information you have provided here =)) More blessings your way.

This is just to thank you for what you have taught us in this informative article. I am a senior lady of 68 y.o., and can’t do physical work anymore. I did proofreading in papers before, with a printing press..but just don’t know how to do it online..and the tools to use. Proofreading is something that we seniors can still do effectively. This is a great help also to augment income. God bless you.

Thank you for the information you gave out on proofreading jobs. I longed to join the job but really confused about how I can get started, now I know what to do, thank you.

Thank you for the information, it helped a lot. I am a young woman with no experience and I am eager to learn anything to start my career. I am interested in editing and proofreading.

Thank you so much, Steffa. You have certainly given me a lot of information and encouragement so I can do well in proofreading jobs. I love reading and I easily point out spelling errors. Thank you!

Thank you for your informative article. I am a teacher of English and presently teaching in a government school. I have 34 years of experience and would like to work as a proofreader.

I found your atrtle to be very informative. I am searching for proofreading work, and your article is a great resource to get me started.

Very generous in providing jobseekers all the information they need. Thank you for helping others

Your effort is great especially for beginners like me. I have been wondering how to get an opportunity in proofreading. with your insight in mind, I am good to go!

Steffa thank you for your detailed account of proofreading. Frankly what I need is a job online proofreading or editing articles, manuscripts, assignments, or books.

Greetings Steffa, Thank you for a very informative and easy-to-follow article. I read every word and learned a great deal. I have to admit I often skim in these type of articles; as they are often too long and repetitive. This however was awesome. I am so excited! I will be back for your course and more! Val

Thank you so much for this post. It was very encouraging. So many jobs seem overwhelming and complicated but you have worded this in a way that anyone willing to put work in can do it. My only real editing is for my own podcasts but I definitely am looking to get into proofreading and will try your free course. Thanks again. Mike

Thank you for putting this together! I am most assuredly going to follow up. I have been in healthcare for over 20 years, but I have a BS that includes secondary education training, and I am looking to get out of nursing. I was always an English nerd at heart and read voraciously. Thanks again!

Hello Steffa, I really appreciate your write up. It actually covered all the areas I wanted as a beginner proofreader. Thx a lot. Cheers, and keep up the good work.

Thank you, Steffa! I am new to proofreading. I just graduated from a proofreading course and didn’t really know where to start! Your article has rectified that!

Thank you very much for this informative article. I appreciate it!

Hi, I have read everything on this website and appreciate the resourceful and useful information it contains.

Thank you, so much.

Hi Steffa, What you have here is very important for people like me who are just coming into freelance proofreading. Many thanks for making this information available.

Even with a degree, you might have to compete on Fiverr with thousands of other proofreading offers. Unless you have the right degree and the necessary experience, then it’s a totally different situation.

Thank for your article. I was a paralegal for 30 years but now I am on disability. I can’t do a lot physically anymore but this is something I can definitely do and it would be a great help to add to my income. I’m excited and I’m going to take the free seminar. I figure that after years of being an avid reader and always catching errors in the books I read and, after years of creating, proofing and editing legal documents, this would be a fun thing to do. I wasn’t sure where to even begin but you helped me figure it all out and gave me the avenues I need to make it a possibility. Thank you so very much!

Thanks so much for this valuable information. I got this while searching for online jobs to support my family financially. I have twenty years of work experience as an English teacher. Presently my employer (State Government) has not been paying salaries regularly.

Hello Steffa. Sorry, I found a couple of typos in your article. One example: “…good way…” instead of “…good pay…”. I wasn’t “proofing” the article, I just happened to notice them. But, beyond that, thank you so much for all of the useful information! I will be looking into the free course you suggest and following up with some of companies you’ve profiled. Very nice work! Thanks again.

Hi Gary, I always appreciate help finding typos since I have so many articles and the work is never done! I’m glad you found the information helpful. I’d love to hear back about your thoughts on the course and where you ended up finding a proofreading job.

Hi Steffa Much respect! This information is simple, clear and informative. It is all very helpful to a beginner with zero proofreading/editing experience, and I appreciate the work you put into research. Thank you.

You’re very welcome Rabia. 🙂

There is a wealth of information here. Thank you so much!

Hello! You have a very informative post, thank you! I noticed a typo in point 4 talking about Proofreadingservices.com. Do I pass the test? 😉

l love this. You made me smile.

Thank you for a great post. It is filled with excellent information.

Either way, it made me smile.

Thank you again for all of the wonderful and useful information all in one place.

There are a few websites where you say they require samples of your work or sample letters. Can you explain what they mean by this? Would it be something that you have written that has been published or simply that you have proofread? I have proofread everything from ad copy to menu listings to in print interviews – would I include that? I apologize, I’m just not clear on what a “sample letter” would be as far as proofreading is concerned. Thank you!

Hi Danielle, A proofreading sample letter would mean that they’d like to see the original document but with all the notations and changes that you did. Some programs have an edit mode that will show all of your changes in red. The right-hand side of the document would include notations for why you formated it this way. Example: No numbering, indented paragraph, etc. It’s a marked-up document with everything that needs to change as if you took a red pen to it.

Hope this helps! Steffa

Hey this is good information. Unfortunately I cant access internet from where I stay. Thanks anyway.

Thank you for the time you took to put this information out there. I hope you inspire others to do the same.

Thank you, Evelyn! I know it’s hard to find places that are hiring and am always trying to help.

Hi! Your primer of these topics is comprehensive. It is the first helpful and by far the easiest to understand. While other sites I visited each seem a jigsaw puzzle, yours give a very clear picture of what is needed to be done, seminars to read, sites to visit, and what to reasonably expect for a newbie like me. Thank you very much!

Thank you so much.

You’re very welcome! 🙂

Hi Steffa, Thanks for posting this article, it is really informative & to the point, most of the time we come across something like this & don’t spare a minute to appreciate. This post is very nicely curated & covers all that is required for someone unfamiliar like me, was searching to do something to augment my income as a freelancer & this article of your’s is certainly going to help. Thanks!!

Hello Steffa.. Thank you so much for providing such wonderful information.. Your efforts are highly appreciated.. Thanking you once again.. b.k. gupta

I have 25 years of experience of working in banks. I am interested to take proofreading as a second profession. The reason being I am good at spotting errors in writing, effortlessly. All my life I lived and worked in Bangladesh. But I traveled widely across the world. And I love to read books, newspapers, magazines, etc. I am serious to give it a try and I am confident I will excel in it over time.

Hi Abdul, You seem like you’d be a good candidate for proofreading. I don’t hire for proofreading myself but the companies I listed do. I definitely suggest looking at the list and trying to apply for open positions.

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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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20+ Best Online Proofreading Jobs for Beginners

| Candace Osmond

Candace Osmond

Candace Osmond studied Advanced Writing & Editing Essentials at MHC. She’s been an International and USA TODAY Bestselling Author for over a decade. And she’s worked as an Editor for several mid-sized publications. Candace has a keen eye for content editing and a high degree of expertise in Fiction.

Do you have a sharp vision for spotting spelling and grammatical mistakes? If yes, then a proofreading job might be the perfect career path. 

Proofreaders are always in demand because all writers make mistakes. More freelance proofreading jobs from home are now available as writers switch to online publishing. 

I’ll help you get paid to proofread with this list of 20 online proofreading jobs for beginners. This guide will also teach you how to make money and improve your skills for a remote position.

Top Sites for Finding Proofreading Jobs

Fiverr is the best platform to find editing and proofreading jobs for beginners. Sell your proofreading service or gig at fair rates. Several clients also look for proofreaders on this site, whether you have a university degree. 

One downside to Fiverr is the high competition yet low prices. Clients often look for proofreaders here because of freelancers’ cheap services. But it’s an excellent place for beginner proofreaders who want to improve their skills in spelling and grammar.

Both entry-level proofreaders and experts can find a job in FlexJobs . It’s a marketplace for online proofreaders who want to earn or start a proofreading business.

FlexJobs also offers content writing and editing jobs. Just search for the job title, category, or any relevant keyword. No matter where you are, you can find a remote job in the comfort of your home.

If you want more access to different freelance jobs, you can try their monthly subscription of $15. This plan lets you search for more proofreading jobs from home. 

Gramlee is a unique online job marketplace that caters to editors and remote proofreaders who want to offer virtual proofreading services. Unlike other sites, this one doesn’t have a wide range of job postings as they only specialize in copyediting.

The website states that they look for exceptional editors from time to time. These freelance jobs offer a salary of three cents per word, asking for revisions in 24 hours. 

If you want to apply at Gramlee, fill out their application form and wait for them to contact you.

Upwork is the biggest freelance marketplace where you will find a variety of clients looking for different services. The fantastic platform provides opportunities for proofreaders who are looking for a job.

Some clients require full-time employees, while others want part-time. You can filter the job offerings based on these settings to give editorial services to your preferred client.

You can get paid to proofread even if you’re only a beginner. Use the communication platform to talk to clients, schedule interviews, and set milestones.

ProofreadingPal

ProofreadingPal is a great place to find potential clients looking for anyone who can perform proofreading tasks. But you need to become a professional proofreader to step up your freelance proofreading career here.

The website hires anyone earning a college degree or a graduate degree with a minimum GPA of 3.5. That means you need to demonstrate proper grammar and exceptional spelling skills to get in. You also need to be knowledgeable in academic writing to enter.

Editors on this website have an average salary of $500 to $3000 per month. The pay is based on your university and educational attainment.

Wordvice is an excellent platform for finding job opportunities in a remote proofreading job. Earn extra money as you edit online content of clients worldwide.

Most private clients in this online marketplace have the English language as their second language, so they need your help. Use your proofreading skills to offer the best service and produce happy clients.

Wordvice asks potential employees to have a graduate program. But they also provide remote and part-time work. 

LinkedIn is like a social media platform for job seekers where you can connect with friends and look for a wide variety of careers. The available opportunities on this website are a mix of freelance writing jobs and on-site jobs at a proofreading company.

The website offers various jobs for proofreaders, writers, and other careers in different industries. You can also access proofreading courses on LinkedIn and kickstart your online business.

If you want to reach more legitimate proofreading jobs, it’s essential to set up your profile. Provide your job description, previous experience, and educational attainment.

American Journal Experts

American Journal Experts is not your typical job-seeking platform. This website comprises academics and professionals who do website proofreading and manuscript preparation.

The proofreading opportunities on this website are up-and-coming. But they require expert spelling and grammar skills along with relevant experience. Check out their Careers page to see the job openings and the types of proofreading projects you may take on.

Potential employees in American Journal Experts will be working in different US research institutions. Ensure you know the AP style and other house style guides for academic papers.

EditFast is the ideal platform for improving your proofreading experience. It provides any career opportunity for aspiring editors and proofreaders with excellent editing skills. Clients and service providers connect on this page to complete different projects.

Just complete the registration process, wait for approval, and get your page activated. Make sure you have a degree from a recognized university to be hired. EditFast also requires previous proofreading experience. 

The online editing jobs range from correcting typing errors to fixing grammatical mistakes. Once the job is done, EditFast receives 40% of the project price, while you get 60%.

ProofreadingServices.Com

ProofreadingServices.Com is a website for experienced proofreaders who want to offer professional services for writers. The opportunities on this site go beyond freelance proofreading jobs. Translators, publishers, and editors are also welcome here.

You can proofread any type of writing, ranging from social media posts to blogs and academic papers. 

But you need to have advanced English language skills to be considered for hire. The application process is easy. You need to complete a 20-minute screening test with a score of 95%.

Lionbridge will give you a fantastic opportunity to apply for different proofreader jobs. It’s a global communications website for aspiring remote employees with a high level of experience managing content.

Qualified proofreaders from Lionbridge will allow you to edit and proofread different works. You’ll also be able to work with experts in sharing insights and connecting with the world.

If no proofreading jobs are currently available on the Lionbridge, you can join the community. Then, register for proofreading tasks and take the required tests. Wait for the company to contact you once an available job is open.

Get Editing Jobs

Get Editing Jobs offers a massive list of proofreading jobs you can apply for, no matter your experience level. Employers can also use this platform to look for skilled proofreaders who can solve their writing needs. 

The platform offers competitive pay rates which employers set. The online job directory typically requires academic editing experience or previous experience editing online blogs.

To find the perfect job for you, enter the word “proofreader,” “proofreading,” or “editor” in the search box. It will help if you create an account to set custom alerts and job notifications and manage your resume. 

Scribe Writing

Scribe Writing is a company that specializes in proofreading. It’s looking for skilled employees who can correct spelling and grammatical errors. Unlike other job opportunities, Scribe Writing lets you connect with authors and writers to customize your job according to their needs.

There are no exact details on the requirements and qualifications of becoming a proofreader for Scribe. However, we all know that a certain level of experience will increase your chances of getting hired. 

You can submit your editing sample to potential clients to give them an understanding of your skill level.

Babbletype is an online platform where you can apply as a proofreader. The website only requires you to be a native English speaker. You should also have basic knowledge of grammar rules to be hired.

Applications on this platform are easy. Once you’re hired, all you have to do is perform the weekly tasks, and they will pay you through PayPal. The salary is done on a freelance basis.

Kirkus Media

Kirkus Media isn’t just for English proofreaders. The online platform is also looking for book reviewers in Spanish. Most of the book proofreading tasks are composed of 350 words and are due in 2 weeks.

The job is relatively easy if you’re an intermediate editor or proofreader. Applying is also more straightforward than other sites. I recommend submitting writing samples to increase your probability of getting accepted. 

Polished Paper

Polished Paper is one of the best platforms for finding a proofreading job if you consider yourself on the professional tier. Fill out their application form and take the 35-question test to check if you’re qualified.

They have strict guidelines on getting hired, but it’s all worth it! Polished Paper guarantees that they pay their skilled proofreaders accordingly. Make sure you have a sharp eye for tough spelling, style, and grammar errors in the content. 

Scribbr is a famous platform for finding a job in editing or proofreading. First, you need to pass a language quiz before the team looks at your CV. Once they see you as compatible with the job, the company will take you to Scribbr Academy for a workshop.

The company will require you to edit about two to five simulation orders. Scribbr will evaluate your work and give you more tips as you go about the job. 

It’s a lengthy application process, but the salary is worthwhile. 

Another option for aspiring proofreaders and editors is Domainite . While it’s designed for beginner proofreaders with little to no experience, the platform will help you improve your skills as time goes by.

Domainite is the perfect choice for anyone with trouble landing clients due to a lack of experience. You have to complete the application form, submit sample works, and they will accept you as a freelancer.

Second to the last on this list of online proofreading jobs is Edit911 . However, you are only qualified if you have a Ph.D. There’s a good chance of getting hired if you’re a book editor or published scholar with verifiable experience.

Edit911 is an excellent option despite the high expectations. It’s for certified professionals who are looking for quality proofreading jobs. 

ClickWorker

ClickWorker is a crowdsourcing platform for clients looking for freelancers who can complete micro-tasks like proofreading. Independent proofreaders and editors are called “clickworkers” who can quickly log in and look for jobs that can hone their skills.

It’s great for newbie proofreaders who want to get their feet wet because they perform small tasks on a large project. To get hired, you need to be an author with enough experience. 

Complete a few content creation jobs until you’re skilled enough to take a proofreading assessment.  Also, take a look at our post on Amazon proofreading jobs.

What is Proofreading?

Proofreading is a type of job concerned with performing final checks on a written document. Before being published or going to print, proofreaders check the work for any missed errors or typos.

One of the primary duties of a proofreader is to review and edit the final manuscript’s spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors. They can also fix any syntax, usage, voice, and consistency mistakes the editor missed.

Proofreaders ensure the accuracy of any referenced facts. This process is critical for websites, newspapers, and academic works. They also ensure that the page numbers, headings, captions, and other formatting options are consistent. 

Note that every proofreader’s job description is different across companies and clients. Some are only concerned with formatting, while others also perform editing jobs. But your main task will always be to review a piece of content and make sure it’s perfect. 

The typical proofreader’s salary is about $53,135. Senior proofreaders earn up to $68,000 a year.

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Proofreading vs. Copyediting

Despite the overlaps in their responsibilities, proofreading and copyediting are two different jobs. The differences in their tasks rely on the stage of the editing process.

Copy editing occurs once the writer has finished their draft. A copy editor will ensure that the piece of writing follows the preferred style guide. They also guarantee that the whole document is readable and accurate.

Proofreading happens at the last editing phase, right before it goes into print. Once the piece of writing has been copyedited, the proofreader will examine the test version of the book’s printed version. 

The proofreader will have one last check of the author’s spelling, grammar, and punctuation. Then they focus on the pages, index section, alignment of the text, and other format settings. 

But the proofreader’s task can be broader. It depends on the genre of the piece and the company’s standards. For example, if you’re a proofreader for magazines, you might be in charge of fact-checking the copy. 

Some editing companies and freelancers offer two-in-one services. After copyediting the writing piece, the author produces a final digital ebook version or a printed copy of the work. Then, they ask the professional to proofread it.

However, getting a separate copy editor and proofreader is always better. A different proofreader offers a fresh pair of eyes for the task. 

How Do I Become a Proofreader Online

Before looking for a job, it’s essential to know the steps you need to take before becoming an online proofreader. 

Decide What Discipline You Want to Specialize

Do you have an area of interest when proofreading? Some proofreaders work in the blogging industry for different niches, while others concentrate on academic disciplines. 

You might need additional training depending on the standards of the industry. For example, you need to learn how to fact-check in journalistic writing. In scientific research articles, you need to know the scientific process. 

Take a Proofreading Course

Proofreading goes beyond making sentences more readable while ensuring that the piece of writing has a consistent format. I recommend taking a proofreading course, especially if you do not have a degree in English, Communication, Literature, or other related programs.

Taking a proofreading course is also essential for beginners with no experience yet. Doing so will familiarize them with the responsibilities they will have. 

Some proofreading courses are tailored to specific writing genres. You can take a general class or focus on fiction, non-fiction, or other writing types. Do your research on the best curriculum for your niche.

Take a Proofreading Test

Once you have finished the proofreading course, it’s time to test your knowledge. Try multiple-choice quizzes, practice tests, and other examinations to measure your skills. The test results will also decide in which areas you need more improvement.

Look for Job Vacancies Online

The internet is full of proofreading jobs. Depending on your preferred specialty, you can type “online proofreading jobs” for general careers or “medical proofreading jobs.”

Most sites that offer job opportunities offer free sign-ups. You can also customize settings like the preferred level of expertise, part-time or full-time, and the rates. 

Another option is to list the service you want to offer on freelance marketing sites. If you don’t want to be bombarded with unrelated job offers, go straight to proofreading and editing websites. 

Some proofreading services specialize in business, while others focus on educational content. Your task also depends on the company. For instance, some proofreading jobs only deal with formatting. Other jobs ask you to fix spelling and grammatical errors.

Set Your Rates

Most freelance proofreading jobs will allow you to set your rates. Never undercharge for a professional service. Think about your level of experience, education, and the quality of work you can deliver. You also want to consider how many words you can proofread daily.

Build Your Resume

Once you have perfected your resume and portfolio, it will become easier to find a job and ask for higher pay. Don’t forget to keep building your resume even if you already have a job. It should stay updated every time you complete a milestone in your career.

If you are looking for a proofreading job that focuses on legal writing, include projects with the same elements. That way, you will find a client whose needs align with your skills.

What Qualifications Do You Need to Become a Proofreader?

Different routes exist for aspiring proofreaders. Some start with a college degree, while others take several online courses for proofreading. 

Others invest in work experience, although this usually takes longer before one becomes a professional. 

For most companies, a bachelor’s degree is a must. You should hold a degree in Communication, English, or Journalism. This is especially true if you will be working in the news industry or a research institution.

What most employers look for in a proofreader:

• Attention to detail.
• Excellent written communication skills. 
• Knowledge of the English language.
• Time management.
• Ability to work well with writers and copy editors.
• Excellent verbal communication skills.
• Ability to use a computer and proofreading software programs.
• Ability to edit different formats of a written document.
• Ability to fact-check.  

How Do I Get Hired as a Proofreader?

If you want to know how to make money as a proofreader, here are some tips to increase your chances of getting hired.

Enjoy Reading 

Proofreaders should be passionate about reading because most of their job includes this task. Imagine yourself reading several hours a day, analyzing each word, sentence, and paragraph.

It would be best if you also were a flexible reader. Whether it’s a journal article, fictional book, or fitness blog post, your ability to catch mistakes is essential. 

Know the Different Style Guides

A proofreader’s role also includes understanding the different style guides. Writing style guides ensure that the piece of writing is consistent and clear across the project and the whole company. 

Several writing styles exist, but the most common ones include:

• AP style (for journalism).
• APA style (for academic papers).
• MLA (for academic papers). 
• Chicago style (for publishing).

Market Yourself

Sometimes, looking for job postings and competing with other job seekers isn’t easy. You need to learn how to market yourself so that companies and clients will approach you. 

Try marketing yourself on social media. Update your Twitter, LinkedIn, and business account on Instagram to make it look like you’re a professional proofreader. Post relevant information, follow writers and engage with them until you’ve built a network.

You can also market yourself on freelance and proofreading websites. Make sure to display your previous experience and describe what makes you a unique proofreader. 

Identify Your Strengths and Weaknesses

Review the list of skills required in a proofreading job. Examine which one you need to improve on the most and practice them. Then, choose one skill you excel in and use it as your unique selling point. 

Be Confident

Do not let anxiety keep you from improving your proofreading skills and getting the perfect job. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, negotiate your salary, and put more effort into your career. After all, most expert proofreaders also started as passionate readers. 

Are Proofreaders in Demand?

According to Recruiter.com, the demand for proofreaders is expected to rise despite the decline during the past years. It’s expected that 3,510 new proofreading careers will be filled by 2029, which is 5.29% more in the next two years.

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics also confirmed that the demand for proofreaders is continuously rising. That’s because so many people are establishing their online writing businesses. Most eCommerce sites also post blog entries that require proofreaders.

Even businesses unrelated to the writing industry now hire proofreaders to ensure accuracy in their business letters. They also hire editors for social media posts, training materials, and other written content. 

You will also find in-demand proofreaders in foreign businesses. They look for native English-speaking proofreaders who will make their online content sound more fluent. 

Do You Need Certifications to Be a Proofreader?

It depends on the company or client who’s hiring. But most clients do not require special certificates or diplomas for proofreading. Instead, they will look at your portfolio to check if you produce high-quality work. 

Some companies require a college degree or higher, especially if you’ll be proofreading research articles. These writing pieces typically require more expertise, so companies look for long experience and high educational attainment. 

How Long to Proofread a Thousand Words?

It should only take less than one hour for a professional proofreader to proofread 1000 words. Most clients and companies expect proofreaders to check 2000-3000 words per hour. So, if you work full-time, that’s at least 12,000 words per day.

But some businesses only require about 10,000 words in five days. That means you have to proofread about 2000 words daily. If you’re an expert, you should be able to complete more. Of course, this is all made easier with the help of proofreading software like Grammarly or ProWritingAid.

Set Yourself Up for Proofreading Success

Now you know the different steps to take before getting paid to proofread. I hope this list of online proofreading jobs for beginners helped you kickstart your freelance career.

Several proofreading jobs from home now exist. Just continue developing and highlighting your skills until you land your dream job. Make sure to keep updating your resume with relevant information. All the best for your future endeavors!

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15 Online Proofreading Jobs You Can Start Today

Are you actively seeking online proofreading employment these days?

You’ve landed at the perfect place to learn where to find legitimate work-from-home proofreading jobs that you can start today.

We’ve searched the Internet for you and selected 15 companies which are currently hiring remote proofreading freelancers.

Just read this article and choose one or more perfect proofreading job opportunities for yourself.

Don’t forget to make sure you meet the necessary requirements when applying for work.

Read on to learn where and how you can boost your earnings .

You can start with how just below, or skip it, and jump straight to the where if you prefer.

What Skills Do You Need to Be a Proofreader?

You don’t necessarily have to hold an English language degree to get an online proofreading job.

However, to get a chance to succeed as a freelance proofreader, you’ll need the following essentials:

• exceptional grammar, spelling, syntax, writing and other relevant language skills
• be meticulous and have an eye-for-detail so that you can easily spot errors others typically don’t notice
• specialized knowledge in a preferred field(s) or niche(s) such as in certain fields of science, other academic papers, marketing materials, legal documents, resumes, eBooks
• extensive knowledge of the most common style guides
• sound knowledge of MS Word , especially its Track Changes feature
• have a love for reading and an ability to read fast
• familiarity with proofreading marks and symbols

These are some of the basic skills and traits employers will expect. Most online companies offering this type of work will also have a few other requirements depending on the specific projects or job roles.

Still, the above list is enough to provide you with a good start and to get you moving towards your online proofreading career.

Still unsure if you want online proofreading to be just a side hustle or a steady career?

Perhaps proofreaders’ income is what you’d like to know before reaching your final decision (which doesn’t have to be made now, by the way).

How Much Money Does a Proofreader Make?

According to MarketingProfs 2018 Salary Guide , proofreaders can earn between $41,500 and $72,750 a year .

Glassdoor average salary estimate for proofreaders in the US is $36,290 based on the latest updates by 222 employees.

Entry level online proofreading jobs are paid approximately $10 per hour for a typical turnover of 500 to 1000 words, checked and corrected. Higher hourly rates of $15 to $20/hr are reserved for more experienced freelancers .

Proofreaders who work in the real offline world, make, on average, $50,000 per year. By comparison, home-based freelance proofreaders’ incomes are a little more difficult to determine because they:

• usually get paid by project/job
• can often negotiate their rates before accepting a particular project
• are mostly allowed to choose which projects to take or reject
• determine how many hours a day/week/month they work and what their hourly rates are if paid per hour.

Now that you know what it takes to become an online proofreader and approximately how much you can expect to earn, read on to find out about a few websites where you can find online freelance proofreading jobs .

1. ManagedEditing (formerly Wordfirm)

Managed Editing, formerly known as Wordfirm Inc. hires skilled remote proofreaders as independent contractors and offers hourly payments.

Previous proofreading experience is necessary, especially in technical, engineering, IT, law, medical or science fields.

2. Scribendi

What’s special about Scribendi is that they do their best to assign you proofreading projects you’re passionate about. They also provide free online training to their proofreaders.

A minimum of three years of related professional experience and a degree are among the basic prerequisites if you want to apply for a freelance position at Scribendi . But, before sending your application, make sure you thoroughly read their detailed guidelines on how to apply by following the previous link.

3. Babbletype

You can apply for online proofreading work at Babbletype only if you’re a native English speaker located in the USA, the UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand or Ireland.

Proofreaders are paid from $0.13 to $0.18 per word and the company posts new projects at a specific time each day. When you’re given a job, it is typically due 22 hours later.

4. EditFast

This company welcomes the applications of skilled freelance proofreaders experienced in proofreading and editing medical, technical and legal documents, novels and various other niches.

The company pays via PayPal and keeps 40% of each project payment, while proofreaders get 60% of the total price.

5. ProofreadingServices.com

If you pass their 20-minute test, you’re eligible to apply for a remote proofreading position at this ProofreadingServices.com. It’s up to you to decide on your working hours and availability, i.e. whether you’d like part-time or full-time work.

To join the Reedsy community of top experienced professionals you’ll first need to meet their criteria and then create a free profile. Once you’ve done this you can start bidding on projects, which, on average, can bring you approximately $1,000 for proofreading a 60,000-word document.

No matter where you’re located, if you’re fluent in English and acquainted with dissertation papers, the APA style guide, and detecting plagiarism, Scribbr might be the right place for you.

Check out Scribbr job openings and apply if you find a good fit. Your main job will be to proofread student papers.

WordsRU offers proofreading work with reliable and above average payments, to remote applicants with a minimum of a Master’s degree or equivalent level of professional experience.

The company is currently in need of qualified editors who are available to work at weekends.

It’s not easy to get through their hiring process, but it’s worthwhile.

9. Wordvice

Full-time freelance proofreading job opportunities at Wordvice are available 24/7. Their proofreading projects encompass various areas from business documents to academic papers. When applying for a position you can state your preferred pay rate.

10. Edit 24/7

Edit 24/7 is an online company offering the fastest turnaround in proofreading and light editing services.

Depending on their availability, proofreaders can choose, or opt for particular jobs when each one is posted online.

If you’d like to join their team and check out proofreading vacancies, contact the company via phone or email them at [email protected] .

Cactus an Indian based company that offers regular home-based proofreading work to detail-oriented people who possess exceptional English language knowledge.

Previous professional experience is not mandatory for starting a career as a part of their global team as long as you can prove your skills.

You can earn up to $4,000 additional income with a flexible schedule.

Perhaps you’d like to check out their current home-based and freelance job openings to discover some suitable work opportunities for yourself.

12. Kirkus Media

Kirkus Media frequently lists remote freelance proofreading job opportunities . Since the company is involved in book publishing, it’s wise to keep an eye on vacant positions every now and then.

When comparing applicants, it’s evident that proofreaders with an in-depth knowledge of the Chicago style guide usually have better chances of landing a job here.

13. ProofreadingPal

This company offers plenty of proofreading career opportunities to remote freelancers who have more than five years of experience.

If you meet their requirements, this is a great opportunity to earn anywhere from $500 to $3,000 per month—which is how much they claim their long-term employees earn.

14. Domainite

To start working for Domainite, you need to complete their freelance job hire form and pass the proofreading test that you’ll find on their job application page.

Other requirements such as a university degree or previous proofreading experience is not necessary.

If you’re successful, they’ll contact you and the pay for your proofreading work will be sent weekly via PayPal.

15. Edit 911

If you hold a PhD in English or another writing-intensive discipline, or, if you’re experienced in teaching, you’ve got a good chance of landing a proofreading job with this company.

Higher pay goes hand-in-hand with higher job qualifications.

Check their employment requirements and apply here if this seems like a perfect career opportunity for you.

It’s action time, NOW.

Wouldn’t you agree that proofreading is a job that lends itself perfectly to remote online work?

If so, then visit the websites listed above and start your search for online work.

If you believe you’ve got what it takes to become a freelance proofreader you’ll only be given the chance if you take the first step.

And if you think you’re a little too inexperienced, you might have to knock on a few more doors before you land a great job. But remember it’ll be worth the effort.

Who knows, maybe you’ll be able to turn your hobby, or side hustle, into a real money-making machine soon.

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Katrina McKinnon

I'm Katrina McKinnon, the author behind Small Revolution . With two decades of hands-on experience in online work, running eCommerce stores, web agency and job boards, I'm now on a mission to empower you to work from home and achieve work-life balance. My passion lies in crafting insightful, education content. I have taught thousands of students and employees how to write, do SEO, manage eCommerce stores and work as Virtual Assistants. Join our most popular course: SEO Article Masterclass

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