proofreading online for money

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What Is Proofreading?

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

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

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

How Much Do Proofreaders Make?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Proofreading vs. Copyediting vs. Scoping

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to Become a Proofreader in 5 Simple Steps 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Get Training on How to Become a Proofreader

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Determine Your Niche

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Set Your Proofreading Rates

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

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

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

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

5. Look for Online Proofreading Jobs for Beginners

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

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

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

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

Proofreading Resources

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

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

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

ProWritingAid

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

Hemingway App

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

AP Stylebook

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

Chicago Manual of Style

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

Dreyer’s English by Benjamin Dreyer

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

The Elements of Style by William Strunk Jr.

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

Related: 29 Best Work From Home Jobs for 2021

Proofreading Online Can Provide a Flexible Income

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

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

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8 Websites for Making Money with your Proofreading Skills

• by Michelle
• October 11, 2021

Are you a writer or someone who is passionate about writing and has a great eye for grammatical errors? If this description fits you, then you can easily make money by proofreading articles. Many websites pay you to proofread their articles, for which you only need good English language skills, a knack for grammar and you’re good to go.

What is Proofreading?

Proofreading is a critical component of the writing process involving English professionals scrutinizing a written document to detect and correct mistakes in grammar, punctuation, spelling, and vocabulary. Good writing always requires alteration and revision, and a basic aspect of this process is proofreading.

Proofreaders have one and only one objective: To ensure that a given piece of text is 100% correct in terms of grammar and vocabulary. If you believe you have the skill set to check and correct someone else’s writing then this is the right job for you.

Can I really earn money online as a Proofreader?

Yes, absolutely. In fact, there are a number of websites that are looking for expert writing professionals to help them with their client’s writing. And some of them pay really well. The amount of money you can earn out of this career depends on your skill level. Some jobs even pay up to $50 per hour to read and edit documents.

Legitimate Websites that Pay you to Proofread

Here are some of the most reliable websites where you get paid to proofread and edit text:

Scribendi is a site that provides proofreading services for essays, thesis, resumes and many other types of scripts. It hires proofreaders and editors with good qualifications and degree in any related field. You can join their team of expert editors and earn money with your language skills. You can either choose to work at their office or work as a freelancer and proofread scripts at the comfort of your home. To join their team, your proofreading speed should be of 1000 to 1500 words per hour. You can apply for a job at Scribendi by going to the jobs section and filling in the form.

PAYMENT DETAILS

Prompt is a website that provides help to students in writing their essays, specifically college essays and therefore requires individuals who are good creative writers and understand the art of essay writing to provide writing coaching to students. The task for a writer at prompt is different from proofreading as it involves creative thinking and writing skills. Prompt requires a minimum commitment of 4 hour per week. It’s a good opportunity for people who enjoy writing and are good at creating, analyzing, and bringing out the best of an essay.

Scribbr is another writing coaching service for students. It involves guiding students in writing their essays and help them become better writers by guiding them in their language skills. The website also helps students of bachelor’s, masters, and even Ph.D. in perfecting their thesis to graduate successfully. If you think you can be a good editor and mentor for students, then you can definitely work at Scribbr. The best thing about scribbr is that it allows flexibility for its’ writers. You can work from the comfort of your home and even design your own work schedule. Other than that, you can interact with a community of writers at scribbr if you need any help of any sort.

ProofreadingServices.com

As the name suggests, proofreadingservices.com proofreads various documents for clients from all around the world and recruits anyone who has a good hand at language and can efficiently help in improving a writing piece or editing it. To become a proofreader at this site, you must take their preliminary test to showcase your language aptitude. Once you become a part of their team, you can earn between $19 – $46 with flexible working hours.

Cactus global

Cactus Global is a proofreading service that hires specialist writers of diverse specializations. You can help with writing pieces of different subjects, depending on your field of study or specialization. You must have a degree in a related field to join the team at cactus global. Proofreading subjects range from science and engineering to healthcare and business. If you have a piece of good knowledge in any specific field, then you can earn at this forum. Your task will mostly consist of editing and formatting manuscripts. Like all other proofreading sites, cactus global also allows you to work from home and determine your own work hours.

Jobsforeditors.com

Jobs for editors is an editing and proofreading service that does not require you to have a degree to start earning at their platform, however it does require individuals to have impeccable English skills and are good at analyzing writing samples to point out any mistakes and suggest improvements. It also requires you to know how to use a computer and the ability to work efficiently and deliver within the time frame. Although you don’t need a degree for this job, jobs for editors highly encourages professionals and specialists to apply at their forum as a writer manager.

As a freelancer, you can work according to your ease and even signup for 1 week of training period if you are new at an editing job. Other than that, jobs for editors allow you to obtain a salary twice a month. You can apply for a job at this platform by submitting your CV.

WritingJobz

Another easy way for language experts to use their skill and earn a good amount of money. Writing jobs posts a variety of writing jobs on its’ platform and you can take up any amount of load, according to your ease to start earning. Writing jobz offers a diverse range of topics to proofread and edit. You can also write on different subjects and earn through your creativity if you enjoy writing. You can analyze science manuscripts, medicine, history and even sports manuscripts; and can provide important feedback for student essays, research papers, book reviews and help them in their work. To apply you need to take a test and fill in the form and you’re good to go!

Reedsy is a great site for professional editors, publishers, and writers to earn extra income with their highly in-demand skills. Readsy provides service to authors who are looking to publish their books and need help with the finishing touches. If you have experience in publishing or editing books, then you are a perfect fit for this platform. Reedsy is a reliable site that has received funding from the European Union and has been reviewed by BBC. The best thing about reedsy is that it delivers your profile to the right client so that you don’t have to compete for every job against a wave of other freelancers. To begin working at reedsy, create your profile, and showcase your work experience to get accepted. Besides editing, reedsy also offers jobs for designers, writers, marketers and web designers. So if you have any of those skills, then you can be a part of reedsy as well.

If you’re interested in working online as a writer, here are 10 Freelance writing websites you can join.

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21 Websites Offering Legit Freelance Proofreading Jobs

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Websites That Provide Freelance Proofreading Jobs

1.  scribendi.

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

Suitable for beginners?

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

Do you need a degree?

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

Special requirements:

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

Your computer must have Microsoft Word 2010 or higher. 

2.  Proofed Inc.

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

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

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

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

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

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

3.  ProofreadNOW

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

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

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

The website doesn’t specify.  

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

4.  Polished Paper

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

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

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

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

5.  Reedsy

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

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

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

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

Not aware of any. 

6.  Domainite

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

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

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

7.  Gramlee

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

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

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

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

8.  Wordvice

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

Apply here to become a freelance editor with Wordvice. 

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

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

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

9.  CACTUS

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

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

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

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

10.  Sibia Proofreading

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

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

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

You need to be a native English speaker. 

11.  ProofreadingServices.com

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

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

The website doesn’t specify. 

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

12.  ProofreadingPal

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

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

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

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

13.  Edit24-7

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

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

14.  EditFast

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

EditFast gets 40% of the final project price. 

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

You need to have a degree from a recognized university. 

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

15.  Edit911

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

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

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

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

16.  First Editing

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

The website lists  First Editing’s requirements  here.   

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

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

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

17.  Cambridge Proofreading LLC

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

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

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

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

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

18.  WordsRU

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

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

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

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

19.  Scribbr

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

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

No. You must have experience editing academic texts. 

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

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

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

20.  Stickler

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

No. You must have significant experience editing academic texts. 

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

21.  Editana

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

No. You must have relevant proofreading experience to apply.  

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

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

FAQs about Freelance Proofreading Jobs

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

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

Keep reading for the answers to those questions. 

How do I become a freelance proofreader without a degree?

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

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

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

Start Your Own Proofreading Business

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

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

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

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

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

Can you make money proofreading?

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

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

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

How much should I charge for proofreading per hour?

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

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

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

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

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

Final Thoughts about Online Proofreading Jobs

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

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

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

7 Steps to Becoming a Highly-Paid Freelance Proofreader Online

R.J. Weiss, CFP®

• Updated October 03, 2020

This is a seven-step guide that shows you how to become a freelance proofreader online — including some important tips on how to be a good one.

It also runs down the tools of the trade that you’ll need to master, and lists the best place to find proofreading jobs.

Table of Contents

The Basics of Proofreading

Proofreading is an essential part of turning out good writing, no matter the subject matter or genre. A piece of writing riddled with mistakes won’t have much credibility with readers.

What Proofreaders Do

A proofreader reads text looking for spelling, grammatical and typographical mistakes.

Some people think proofreading and copyediting are the same, but they’re not. A copyeditor makes changes that improve the accuracy and readability of the text, so that all of the information is factual and the writing style is pleasing to readers.

Conversely, a proofreader’s primary job is to make sure there are no errors on the page (like misspelled words, extra spaces or incorrect apostrophes).

A common career path for proofreaders in a corporate setting is to use their experience gained in proofreading to become a copy editor.

When working for smaller businesses, especially in a freelance role, some clients are unwilling to hire both a proofreader and a copyeditor and will rely on you to do some copy editing work as well. So be sure to understand each client’s expectations.

Types of Proofreading Jobs

• Books and e-books : With the advent of self-publishing, anyone can write and publish a book. These people don’t have a publishing house that provides proofreading services, so they look to freelancing proofreaders to do the job for them.
• Blog posts : There are millions of blogs and tens of millions of blog posts. Many content creators are single-person operations, where the bloggers already wear a lot of hats. Hiring a proofreader allows them to wear one fewer.
• Marketing content : Even the smallest of small businesses produce marketing content, but they don’t have enough work to have a full-time proofreader on staff. So small businesses are a good target for part-time proofreading freelancers.
• Technical content : This is where choosing a niche comes in. Technical content is not a good place for general proofreading, but it is a good place for someone who specializes in a particular topic.
• Academic papers : College students are a great source of work for proofreaders. Graduate students often hire freelancers to help them ensure their dissertations are error-free.

Proofreading Skills You Need

A good proofreader has an eye for small mistakes that most people would pass over, plus a complete grasp of the English language (including spelling, grammar and punctuation).

There are proofreading software programs out there, but none of them can catch everything because the English language and the various rules and standards around it are so numerous and complex.

Proofreading is one field where humans will never be replaced entirely by technology.

How Much You Can Make

As you start your career, you probably won’t make a lot. But as you gain experience, you can start charging more. On average, proofreaders earn around $25 per hour.

According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, the mean wage for proofreaders ranges from $10.91 to $29.56 per hour.  

How to Become a Proofreader – A Seven-Step Guide

Becoming a proofreader is easier than you might think. In fact, if you’re motivated, it’s possible to read this guide today and have your first client on contract by the same time tomorrow.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make that a reality.

Step #1: Identify Your Strengths and Selling Points

While you don’t need years of experience to become a freelance proofreader, a lack of references, testimonials and feedback means that you will  need to convince potential clients that you’re up for the job.

So it’s important to begin this process by thinking about what you have in your background that can help build that confidence. Maybe you have an English degree, edited corporate documents in your day job, or served as the editor for your high school or college newspaper or yearbook. All of these are perfectly sufficient for getting entry-level work.

Think about it like this…

If you’ve spent your career working as a nurse or a salesman, your general professional experience is irrelevant to potential clients. The fact that you were a motivated, dependable employee doesn’t say anything about your ability to spot and fix misplaced commas.

So in cases like this, you need to drill down a little deeper. For example, if you’ve worked as a nurse, you could explain how part of your job included carefully reviewing and correcting medical notes and transcripts, where any errors could have catastrophic effects on patients.

If you’ve worked in sales, you could explain that you were responsible for reviewing all of your company’s marketing materials prior to publication.

Do these examples seem like a stretch? Maybe, but keep in mind that you only need to sell yourself this way to your first couple of clients. Once you have a couple of projects under your belt, you will be a proofreader — and your previous work won’t even matter.

Key Takeaway : Link your background to your ability to be an effective proofreader — even if that requires thinking creatively about your skills and experience. For more tactical steps to position yourself as a first-time freelancer, see our guide on how to start freelancing .

Step #2: Build a Compelling Online Profile

Clients want to work with real people whose real names they know, and who have active online profiles. That means they’re going to Google you and base their hiring decisions, at least in part, on what they find.

So at the base level, just give up on the idea that you can do this work anonymously. If you don’t use your real name and photo, it will be much harder to get clients and you’ll earn less money.

More specifically, it’s crucial to make sure that all of your social media accounts send the signal that you’re a professional proofreader who can be trusted to deliver accurate results.

For most people, that means making changes to your online profiles (primarily LinkedIn) to highlight the strengths and selling points you identified in Step #1.

Key Takeaway : Use your social profiles to send the signal that you’re a professional proofreader who is actively engaged in the field. For more strategies on getting jobs with no experience, see our guide on how to write a resume with no experience (which includes a free template you can use to update your own resume, and in turn, your social profiles).

Step #3: Get the Tools You Need for the Job

Like any profession, proofreading has tools of the trade that you’ll need to familiarize yourself with and have access to. The most important of these are style guides, which set specific rules for usage and punctuation within fields and industries.

For example, most newspapers adhere to Associated Press (AP) style, while most book publishers use the Chicago Manual of Style.

Why does this matter?

As a proofreader, your job is to obsess over details. And that means knowing things like whether “em dashes” (like the ones below) should have spaces around them.

• This is correct in AP style: The brown fox — who was very quick — jumped over the fence.
• This is correct in Chicago style: The brown fox—who was very quick—jumped over the fence.

Now, if you’re like most new proofreaders, you probably just said to yourself something along the lines of, “Oh my God, I’ve never considered something like that before, so maybe this isn’t for me.”

Take a deep breath! You don’t need to memorize the style guides (at least not when you’re first starting out). You just need to understand the kinds of things to look up.

However, that’s why it’s a good idea to invest in the style guides (which are relatively cheap) early on in your proofreading journey. (You can also find the answers to many common questions — but not all of them — online.)

These are the most common style guides:

• American Psychological Association (APA) : Used in the social sciences (and some hard sciences).
• Associated Press (AP) : Used in journalism.
• Chicago Manual of Style : Used in the U.S. publishing industry.
• Council of Science Editors : Used in biology and natural sciences.
• Modern Language Association (MLA) : Used in the humanities.

Key Takeaway : You’ll deliver better work (and get better feedback) if you have access to the appropriate style guides.

Step #4: Brush up on the Basics of the Trade

While there’s no need to commit each style guide to memory, you do need to be familiar with the basics of each and stay current on the latest updates.

Some of the most common errors you’ll revise as a proofreader are things like serial commas, the number of spaces after periods, basic formatting and the hyphenation of compound words. These corrections vary slightly depending on the client’s preferred style guide, and the rules can change over time.

For example, AP style used to mandate the use of “percent” instead of the symbol. But recently, the rules changed to mandate the use of “%” instead of the word.

Many clients won’t follow or have a preferred style guide, so they’ll defer to you. You should get to know each well enough to decide which you prefer to work in.

Remember, it’s not just about your current client’s satisfaction; future clients may ask for samples of your work, and while the blogger who gave you your first proofreading job might not care if every detail adheres to a particular style guide, better-paying clients absolutely will — and your samples need to show that you know what you’re doing.

Key Takeaway : Follow the major style guides on Twitter and Facebook, and pay attention to announcements and changes.

Step #5: Identify Niches Where You Have a Competitive Advantage

In Step #1, we talked about identifying the parts of your background that will make you attractive as a proofreader — the skills and experience that show clients you can be trusted to correct their grammar and punctuation.

But when it comes to finding actual proofreading jobs, you want to circle back to your prior work history.

Because while your experience as a nurse is irrelevant when it comes to your proofreading ability, it makes you dramatically more attractive to clients who have health and wellness content that needs to be checked.

Everything that’s published exists within a niche, and chances are you have expertise in one or more of them. So the key is to think about where you can add value compared to other proofreaders, and then align your job search accordingly.

If you have a nursing background but spend time targeting proofreading jobs in the personal finance niche, you will:

• Have a harder time getting hired.
• Command a lower rate.
• Work slower, further reducing your rate on a per-hour basis.

There’s demand for proofreaders in virtually every niche imaginable, so don’t worry if you think you don’t have marketable expertise.

Key Takeaway : Targeting niches where you have domain expertise can help you overcome a lack of proofreading experience. See our step-by-step guide on how to choose a freelancing niche to learn more. 

Step #6: Target the Right Kind of Clients

When you’re new to the proofreading business, the feedback clients provide and post on your profile is absolutely critical for getting future work. If your first project garners a poor review, your proofreading career can be over before it begins.

This is especially true on job boards like Upwork and Fiverr, where feedback is everything. 

Fiverr and Upwork are two of the largest marketplaces for freelance proofreading jobs. Get a sense of which platform is right for you in our guide to Fiverr vs. Upwork .

That’s why it’s important to be choosy about your clients.

I don’t have to tell you this, but not everyone is reasonable. Clients don’t always provide clear instructions, set clear expectations, or evaluate your work fairly.

And often, clients don’t understand how online feedback systems work, perhaps thinking that a 4.5/5 rating is “great” without realizing that a freelancer can get kicked off a platform for falling below a 4.8 average.

Once you’ve had 50 clients, a few bad reviews will amount to a drop in the bucket. But your first two or three are the only things people will see — so they have to be good.

Before accepting a project, look at the feedback the client has left for others. Are they overly critical? Do they leave nasty reviews?

And look for feedback on the client from other freelancers. Does the client fail to clearly communicate what they want? Are they difficult to get in touch with?

There are plenty of jobs available, so don’t let your eagerness lead you into a situation that will hurt your future prospects.

Key Takeaway : A negative review on your first project can derail your proofreading career, so be selective about who you work with when you’re just starting out. See our articles on getting started on Fiverr and getting your first client on Upwork to learn more about how to succeed on these platforms.

Step #7: Deliver Perfection on Your First Project

As discussed above, your ability to make money as a proofreader is largely dependent on the success of your first project. That first client can leave you glowing feedback and refer you to others, or they can be brutally honest about the flaws in the work you deliver.

Everyone makes mistakes in their job — even when their job is catching mistakes! But your first project has to be absolutely perfect. Read it 10 times before submitting it to the client. Do whatever it takes to make sure there is nothing that can be criticized.

Key Takeaway : You don’t have to be perfect forever. But you do have to be perfect on this project.

Five Tips for Becoming a Better  Proofreader

Like any online job , there are some tricks of the trade that will help you improve your proofing skills and land more work.

Tip #1. Do Your Final Read With Pen and Paper

The vast majority of your proofing will be done on a computer, and you should do multiple read-throughs of every project.

But the final read should be done the old-fashioned way. Print out every word of your project on paper and proof it with a red pen.

Our brains process language slightly differently when it’s on a page, so this method will help you catch mistakes that you missed on screen.

Tip #2. Do Your First and Last Reads on Different Days

Even if a project is fairly small and straightforward, and you can turn it around in a single day, always stretch it to at least two days.

When you read something twice in a row, your brain will start anticipating the next words and that anticipation can cause you to gloss over mistakes. To avoid this, do your first and last read on two different days.

Tip #3. Read the Text Out Loud

The final read of the project should be from the printed copy and done out loud.

You might feel a bit silly at first, but reading the text out loud uses a slightly different part of your brain than reading silently, which means you’ll catch mistakes the “silent reading” part of your brain skipped over.

Tip #4. Work From the Bottom Up

The first read of a project should be in the order the text was written. While part of your job is to catch things like grammatical errors and spelling errors, part of it is perfunctory copyediting — making sure that what you’re reading makes sense.

But one of your reads should be from the bottom up, starting with the beginning of the last paragraph and moving in reverse order. When you read sequentially, you can become absorbed in the content and the mistakes you’re looking for can become less obvious.

Tip #5. Limit Your Number of Words Per Day

Being a proofreader isn’t physically demanding, but it is mentally demanding. If you try to do too much in a single sitting or in one day, your accuracy will decline as your brain becomes fatigued.

Monitor yourself closely until you can pinpoint at how many words your accuracy starts to falter, and make that number your cut-off point for that sitting or that day.

The Tools of The Trade

Every good proofreader has a tool bag that should include the following items, most of which are free or relatively inexpensive.

As you peruse this list, you may think you already know how to use each of these — but you should still take a few minutes to research their features in detail, as many have hidden capabilities that aren’t utilized by the everyday user.

Google Docs

Many clients prefer to work in Google Docs because it’s free, user-friendly, and has a lot of tools that are helpful when two or more people are working on a project together — such as the ability to highlight and comment on a specific segment of text.

Microsoft Word also has these features, but they’re a little bit more complicated to leverage.

Microsoft Word

There are still a few holdouts who use Microsoft Word rather than Google Docs. Word is more complicated, but has a fuller set of proofing features, such as Track Changes — an editing option that allows you to keep track of revisions made to the original document.

Before starting as a proofreader, make sure you’re familiar with all of the features under the “Review” tab in Word — they’re not all self-explanatory, and you may need to refer to help articles to get to know how they work.

Grammarly Premium

Grammarly Premium is an online app, available by monthly or annual subscription, that automatically scans documents for the kinds of mistakes a proofreader is looking for.

It really is indispensable for this kind of work and worth every penny. Like any similar program, it isn’t foolproof and has its annoying quirks — but it’s one more way to do a quick scan for any errors you missed.

Hemmingway App

The power of Hemingway’s writing was his ability to write short, concise sentences that packed a punch.

The Hemingway App works on that principle. It can help you shorten unnecessary passages and revise language that makes a text unnecessarily difficult to read. While the app is more of a copyediting app than a proofreading one, it will be useful if you have clients that expect you to do some copyediting as well.

Where to Find Proofreading Jobs

While we keep a complete database of online proofreading jobs , here’s a shorter list to help you get started.

Upwork is the biggest freelancing site out there. It has posts for thousands of jobs, including plenty of proofreading jobs. That does mean you face a lot of competition though, so remember to choose a niche and bid low if you don’t have much experience.

You can see feedback on the clients, as well as feedback they have left, so you can get a sense of how good or bad a client will be to work with.

Related : I wrote an in-depth article about getting your first job on Upwork .

On Fiverr, the clients come to you. You create a profile and post an offer (called a “gig”) along the lines of, “I will proofread 500 words for $25.” Then, clients simply “purchase” the gig and send you their work.

You may be able to get work faster on Fiverr than Upwork, but you can’t choose the clients — which means you may have to deal with some difficult people. Additionally, the pay for projects on Fiverr is typically a bit less than on Upwork.

#3. FlexJobs

If you’re looking to make proofreading a full-time career rather than a side hustle, FlexJobs can be a good option. Each of the postings has been vetted, so you don’t need to worry about being scammed, and many posts tend to be long-term projects or jobs with established corporations that can be done remotely.

Note : Learn more about the site and how it works in our detailed FlexJobs review .

#4. Content Agencies

Content agencies hire for all manner of jobs, including proofreading, editing and writing. An agency does the legwork for clients who need people to fill these positions, typically on a project-by-project basis. Some agencies that hire include Proofreading Pal, Proofreading Services, and Scribendi.

Frequently Asked Questions About Proofreading

There are no certification requirements to work as a proofreader. Some colleges and institutions, such as New York University , do offer certificates in proofreading — but these are expensive, and only necessary if you’re interested in working for a newspaper or publishing house.

No, it doesn’t! While you can make a solid living as a proofreader — perhaps up to six figures in some cases — there’s an upside limit to how much you can earn. The reason for that is simple: there’s a limit to how much value even the best proofreader in the world can bring to the table. At some point, the text is perfect, and no matter how skilled you are, you’re not going to make it any better. If you want a freelance opportunity with more upside, pair your proofreading with writing and editing — two fields in which the amount of value you can add is much higher.

The work can be boring. And even if you like to read , it can be mentally exhausting. Professional proofreaders may go over 10,000 or 20,000 words in a day, paying excruciatingly careful attention to every letter and punctuation mark.

How to Become a Proofreader: Summary & Final Thoughts

Proofreading is a great field to get into if you have the skills because it’s so flexible. You can do it part-time or full-time, and it’s one of the best overall ways to make money from home .

There’s a lot of work available, which means you can start your own business as a proofreader. Plus, the bar for entry is low, as you don’t need a college degree or years of experience to start landing clients.

If you’re good, you can build long-term relationships with clients because most people who need a proofreader will have ongoing work.

And on top of all this, it pays relatively well.

If all of that sounds appealing to you, proofreading might be the ideal career.

10 Comments

Awesome information! I am so interested in getting involved in a career of proofreading and editing. I cannot believe I have never seen or heard of this career. This is something I have always been very good at. I am also an excellent speller. Thank you for all of the great information.

This is a great. My passion in writing and reading has been on a high level. I have always been keen on how I write ensuring I check on my grammar and spelling so well. I have engaged myself in competitive writing and this has sharpened me so much.

Looking forward to share out my knowledge on creative writing.

Wonderful. Could help lots of people out. More to do with this as I have been reading for the best part of my life. Looking to do some online jobs with this.

Wow! I have never thought I would be able to think of proofreading as a career opportunity. I love reading and on some platforms I have wished I could just correct the mistakes. I was under the impression I needed a degree to be a proofreader.

Wow!! this is great, I have never thought of the importance of proofreading to writers. This article has just encouraged me to continue exploring this field. I love reading and editing so much. I have edited some projects and I did not see it as a big deal, I was just helping the writers. Thanks again for this eye-opening article.

This is a concise insight into become a professional proofreader. The author did a really nice research and displayed expertise on the subject matter. Thumbs up.

I am interested in proof reading. From my previous work experience, I feel I have what it takes to be a proof reader. When it comes to picking up errors in documents, it comes naturally.

Wow! I never thought that proofreading can one of the best thing that people can think as a career. I feel like I have what it takes to be a proof reader.

How frequent are these jobs availble?

Proofreading jobs are frequently available on freelance platforms like Upwork, with new job postings appearing almost daily.

Fiverr works differently, as freelancers post their services and clients purchase them directly. Despite this, many proofreaders on Fiverr have completed over 1,000 jobs, indicating a steady stream of work.

FlexJobs focuses more on full-time positions, which may require more experience and have a lower volume of openings compared to freelance platforms.

The frequency of proofreading jobs at content agencies varies, so it’s best to check with individual agencies to understand their hiring practices and the volume of work they

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How to make money proofreading: the ultimate guide.

This article was subjected to a comprehensive fact-checking process. Our professional fact-checkers verify article information against primary sources, reputable publishers, and experts in the field.

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

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

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

Proofreading: Is it worth it?

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

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

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

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

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

Proofreading vs. copyediting

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

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

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

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

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

1. Have the right skills

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

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

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

2. Acquire additional qualifications

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

Several guidelines out there are commonly used, including:

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

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

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

• LinkedIn Learning

3. Choose your proofreading rate

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

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

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

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

4. Find your first job

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Google Docs

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

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

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

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

AP Stylebook

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

ProWritingAid

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

Hemingway App

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

Is proofreading easy?

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

Are proofreaders in demand?

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

How much do beginner proofreaders make?

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

How can I learn proofreading for free?

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

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

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

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

Become a virtual assistant

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

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

Get more information about how to become a virtual assistant .

Offer services on Thumbtack

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

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

Explore how it works in our Thumbtack review .

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

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Top 21 Places To Look For Proofreading Jobs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Clickworker

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

3. ProofreadingServices

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

4. SolidGigs

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

5. FlexJobs

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

6. Get Editing Jobs

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

7. LionBridge

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

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

9. LinkedIn

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

10. Scribendi

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

11. Contena

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

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

13. Wordvice

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

14. Craigslist

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

15. Scribbr

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

16. Cactus Communications

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

17. Polished Paper

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

18. EditFast

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

19. ProofreadingPal

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

20. Freelancer

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

21. Gramlee

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

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

What is proofreading exactly?

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

Sounds simple, right?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What does a Copy Editor Do?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Freelancing Growth

Written by Allan Borch

Contributor at millo.co.

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 .

Allan's Articles

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13 Online Proofreading Jobs That Pay Well

What is Proofreading?

Pros of choosing online proofreading as a career .

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

Cons of Choosing Online Proofreading As A Career 

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

Are Online Proofreaders In Demand?

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

13 Well-Paying Online Proofreading Jobs For Beginners

2. ProofreadingServices.com

3. LinkedIn 

4. Polished Paper

5. Wordvice

6. CACTUS Communications

7. Get Editing Jobs

8. Proofreading Pal

9. Managed Editing

10. Book Editing

12. SmartBrief

13. Lionbridge

What Skills Do You Need To Become A Proofreader

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

How To Prepare For A Proofreading Career?

Proofread your way to success.

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How Rae Makes Money Proofreading Online

[ Affiliate Disclosure:  We receive a commission if you purchase something through one of these links. All affiliates are thoroughly checked for quality and reliability. Affiliate commission helps us provide tons of useful free content and 100% free proofreader referral services.]

This is an update of an interview that was conducted in 2020. 

We get asked all the time if you can make money proofreading online even if you don’t live in the US.

And our answer is always YES!

As long as you have a laptop or tablet and a reliable internet connection (and the proofreading skills to complete the job!), you can work anywhere as an online proofreader and earn extra money.

Here’s one of our Transcript Proofreading graduates who’s making money proofreading online outside of the US!

Rae is a Canadian who currently lives in Mexico, and she has NEVER met any of her clients, or potential clients, face-to-face. Her location simply doesn’t matter because all communication and work can be completed online.

Keep reading to learn more about Rae’s story!

Rae’s Transcription Background & Proofreading Experience

Q: Hi, Rae! Tell us a little about your background. What did your life look like before you crossed paths with PA?

Before crossing paths with PA, I was already a full-time, professional freelance transcriptionist and proofreader occasionally working in the legal field.

In late 2008, I quit the rat race after a short career in the Canadian civil service, bought an RV, and hit the open road. I quickly realized that I needed to find something I could do from home that would be portable.

It took a few years, but I settled on transcription due to the low start-up costs and started doing that full-time in 2011. I had also been doing a little proofreading here and there for about twenty years and knew that was actually what I wanted to do, but I didn’t have the mental energy or budget to go back to school to get any sort of certification or graduate degree that would truly get me in the door in the proofreading field.

Transcription clients cared more about my performance than my credentials, so that was just easier and a smaller investment.

By late 2015, I knew that I had to get out of transcription as I was close to hitting the ceiling earnings-wise and was tired of not being treated like the professional I was. I happened to come across the Proofread Anywhere Transcript Proofreading course and knew it would be the perfect fit for me, but the time wasn’t right.

Fast forward to late 2018, I’d emigrated to Mexico, was staying put in one location for longer than six months for the first time in over a decade, and the transcription field was going through a lot of transitions that resulted in rates going even lower.

It was really time to get out. My tax advisor told me that the PA course qualified as a tax deduction for me and that I needed it for my 2018 taxes, so it was time to become a proofreader . The course took me a full year to complete because I wanted to get through all the practice transcripts without rushing.

Why She Chose to Start a Proofreading Business

Q: I’m glad the timing was finally right and you decided to take the leap! When did you start proofreading, and what made you decide to make money proofreading online?

I have been proofreading since I was a teenager — books, websites, marketing manuals, college papers, etc. I’ve always loved languages (I speak three, and the English language is actually the second I learned!). I’ve always been a reader and a writer.

University taught me the CMOS and AP style guides. Legal transcription introduced me to the styles and resources used in that industry. So, I never really made a decision to learn how to proofread; it’s always been something I dabbled in and knew I wanted to do full-time.

Proofread Anywhere gave me a certificate that gave me the resources to reach clients I couldn’t find before.

Q: Investing in yourself can open a lot of doors. What was the most challenging part of getting started?

Transcription is mentally exhausting. It was hard to get into the headspace of committing to working on the course for an hour or two most evenings after writing all day. And I didn’t do it most days, hence why it took so long.

Her Experience With Proofreading Opportunities & Clients

Q: Taking the course does require an investment of your time, but it’s worth it in the end. What was the most valuable thing you learned during the course?

How to market myself to court reporters and where to find them.

Q: How long did it take you to find your first client? And how many clients do you have now?

It only took a few days to find my first proofreading gig. I finished on December 9th, so everyone was looking for coverage for the holidays!

I currently have eight transcript proofreading clients, but I’ve also found legal transcription clients and one audio-to-text proofreading client through resources provided by the course.

I’m currently juggling fourteen freelance jobs total, including transcription clients I’ve had for a very long time (one for ten years).

Here’s what some of Rae’s happy clients have to say:

How Freelance Proofreading Jobs Paid for Her Course

Q: That’s amazing that proofreading transcripts led you to finding other clients as well. How long did it take you to recoup the cost of the course?

I paid off the course in about three weeks — but only a small part of that was proofreading work.

Taking the course gave me access to some Facebook groups that wouldn’t let me join before. Through one of those, I got a huge and very lucrative rush transcription contract one weekend that covered something like 90% of the cost of the course! But I still say that counts because I would never have found this now repeat transcription client with my old networking resources . That single client’s invoices 100% paid for the course.

Since I graduated on December 9th, strictly in online proofreading jobs and not other work directly received from taking the course, it took just over four months to recoup the cost of the course.

Advice for Beginner Proofreaders

Q: What advice would you give anyone thinking about enrolling in the course to learn how to proofread? Is it worth the money?

Get some transcription experience first so you understand what you’re doing as a professional proofreader. I found that that was the biggest deficiency in the course. I’ve had several clients who have tried other PA proofreaders before me and who say that there is a huge difference between an experienced proofreader who understands transcription and one who doesn’t.

I also think that you need to be a writer and a reader to be a good proofreader. Just one course on punctuation and spelling mistakes isn’t enough. You need to know how language flows naturally for the actual mistakes to pop out at you. Otherwise, you will be like some online proofreaders I’ve met who struggle and find the work tedious and slow because they question everything.

For me, the Transcript Proofreading course was absolutely worth the money. The course hasn’t changed my life yet, but I know it will once I get a stable enough base of proofreading clients to do this work full-time.

I think this course is worth money to anyone who uses it as continuing education, and I’ve recommended it to several fellow transcriptionists also looking to get out of the field. But I wouldn’t recommend the course to someone with no prior experience in the field as I don’t feel the course is complete enough and may give false expectations for someone with no prior related experience. [ Beginner proofreaders with no experience would be better off taking the General Proofreading course first. ] That’s not to say I haven’t met PA grads with no prior transcription or proofreading experience who are doing very well, but it seems like they might be the exceptions.

Life as a Freelance Proofreader

Q: What does your life look like now as a working freelance proofreader?

I enjoy working so much more. I really love this profession.

Transcription always felt like something that paid the bills, but I never warmed up to it. My proofreading career doesn’t feel like work in the same way.

I mean, I just got back from “vacation,” during which I worked almost full-time without resenting it! All I needed was my iPad, which I could reach for while waiting at the airport, for a meal at a restaurant, sitting in a park, or even in bed in my rental apartment.

Before, I transcribed while traveling around Europe for nine months and I dreamed the whole time of being able to just work from my iPad because it was so hard to find a quiet place with a proper desk to work from, plus I had to carry so much equipment. I’m now living that dream!

Also, online proofreading jobs pay a lot better than transcription, despite needing the same skill set. In the weeks I have a full proofreading load, I’m working a lot fewer hours for the same or better money . I’ve taken up two outside hobbies since I graduated and I actually have time for them!

Advice for Finding Remote Proofreading Jobs

Q: Anything else you’d like to share with the PA community?

Cast a wide net when looking for potential clients and job opportunities. There is a current slowdown in the industry due to the pandemic crisis. Some jurisdictions are proving to be slower than others in getting set up for electronic depositions.

Colleagues who only have clients in slower areas are really struggling. But I have clients in about a dozen states, plus in Canada , so things are thankfully steady right now if not a tad slower than normal (fingers crossed!).

Also, I’m sure that in-person marketing really helps, but I’ve found success in my freelancing career without ever having met a single client in person . So if you’re someone living in another country (like I am), don’t let that stop you. Just take responsibility for things like time zone differences, payment processing fees, and even communications (like being the one to make the long-distance phone calls).

Proofreading Services Rate 

My hourly working rate ranges from $20 USD to $40 USD. Most days, I’m earning about $25 USD per hour. That’s reading 63 pages per hour at my standard rate. This is pretty good, but remember that I have taxes, business expenses, health insurance, etc. to deduct from those earnings, plus I don’t get paid vacations or holidays. But it’s plenty for me because I live in Mexico, which has a much lower cost of living than the U.S. or Canada.

I’ve seen many graduates who are brand new to this who work at a much slower pace. This is often because they have no experience reading and/or writing all day and lack an understanding of transcription, which makes them question and mark up everything possible. They’re usually the ones who complain about earnings being lower than they expected. But I’m seeing similar numbers to mine from those who are experienced proofreaders.

Speeding up Your Proofreading Tasks

Work processes also affect speed and therefore the hourly working rate. I’m pretty streamlined and efficient because I use a lot of stamps and other shortcuts to reduce how much time I spend marking up a transcript. It can be easy to fall into the trap of wanting to send a client back a transcript with lots of annotations as it makes it clear you spent a lot of time on the transcript, but that’s actually not always that helpful and can even overwhelm the client.

Also, proofreaders who work around a lot of distractions, like at their kid’s soccer game, often report slower progress than those, like me, for whom this is a full-time job with my proofreading services being done in a dedicated, distraction-free workspace during set hours.

An Update from Rae in 2023

As this interview is from 2020, we reached out to Rae to see how she is doing and if her proofreading skills have led to her success. 

Job Opportunities and Working as a Scopist

Can you update us on where you are now, what you’re doing for work, do you still feel like the course set you up for success?

Well, I’m not proofreading transcripts full-time, but I’m still working full-time in the legal industry as a scopist (providing editing services to court reporters).

Up until the pandemic, being mobile was my only priority. I took a short trip to Oaxaca City right before the pandemic shutdown, lived the dream of working from anywhere with my iPad, and I loved it. But then the world shut down and I realized that I was not happy just proofreading on my iPad at home all day.

It was hard to get into work mode when I wasn’t sitting at a desk and I didn’t find the work engaging enough. A lack of online proofreading jobs meant that the pay wasn’t great, either. So my mind began to open up to other possibilities.

I don’t know how many people had told me that I would want to transition to scoping, but I couldn’t imagine it at the time that I was starting with proofreading transcripts.

Working in a Windows environment was a non-starter, I didn’t want to work my way around the world lugging a heavy foot pedal again, and the startup costs for scoping were intimating. But there was also this pandemic situation that could last for another month or a decade. Who knew?

Scoping would definitely provide me with a better income and would be more engaging. By this time, there was software called Parallels that would let me run Windows software alongside my Mac applications, so I wouldn’t really be working in a Windows environment.

I approached a couple of scoping schools and one of them put together a curriculum to fill in the gaps in my experience so I could start scoping as quickly as possible — just the note reading and Case CATalyst modules.

I spent August and September of 2020 getting ready to scope and really began at the start of October. With my experience, I had no trouble lining up quality clients immediately and I haven’t searched for work since.

Still Earning Money Online

I’m earning about double what I was averaging while proofreading and am much happier. I still do a few remote proofreading jobs for a couple of reporters, but that’s really overtime work for me, a chance to keep my skills sharp, and an opportunity to get paid to cuddle with my cats on the sofa!

The income from scoping made it possible for me to buy the house I’d been renting in Mexico and has definitely shifted my priorities. Now, I want to travel as much as possible without having to work, so being mobile in my job isn’t nearly as pressing as it was before the pandemic.

Was the Proofread Anywhere Course Worth it?

I do feel that, for me, the Proofread Anywhere course did set me up for success in terms of teaching me how to make the connections I needed to keep moving ahead in my career.

I’m still surprised by all the twists of fate that led me here, but I am still working with the proofreading clients that I picked at the beginning, so there is continuity there.

Thank you for such a thorough response! We wish you the best of luck as you continue your freelance lifestyle! 

Once You Start in the Industry, You Can Always Shift

Rae is proof that, even if you start out making money proofreading online and choose to shift into a different career, the skills that you learn from taking online courses can still provide you with opportunities that you never could have imagined before!

We love to hear from students and graduates who are finding their way in the freelance world. If you would like to share your proofreading journey with us, please send an email to our Content Manager, Reyné, at [email protected] . 

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I would like to do the free 7 day email course

Awesome! You can register here: https://proofreadanywhere.com//sign-up/ 🙂

Great article. I really appreciate the variety that this showcases.

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

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Proofreading Jobs from Home No Experience

Table of Contents

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

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

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

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

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

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

Online Proofreader Job Role

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

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

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

Proofreaders make sure that writing is concise and accurate.

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

What is Proofreading?

Proofreading is a vital part of editing.

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

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

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

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

Proofreaders look for:

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

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

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

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

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

How Do You Make Money Proofreading?

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

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

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

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

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

Do You Need Qualifications to Become a Proofreader?

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

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

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

How Do You Become a Proofreader?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to Land Entry Level Proofreading Jobs Online

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

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

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

Proofread Anywhere’s online training teaches:

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

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

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

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

31 Legitimate Online Proofreading jobs from home

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

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

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

1. Click Worker

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. We Work Remotely

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

6. Lionbridge

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

7. Clear Voice

Clear Voice offers freelance proofreading jobs that hire worldwide.

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

Payments are made to you weekly or monthly by PayPal.

8. Polished Paper

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

9. Kirkus Media

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

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

10. Babbletype

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

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

11. Proofreadingservices.com

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

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

12. Get Editing

They offer freelance editing and proofreading jobs.

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

13. Writing Jobz

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

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

14. Ubiqus On Demand

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

15. Cambridge Proofreading

They are actively recruiting remote academic editors.

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

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

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

16. Domainite Editing Jobs

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

17. Gramlee Jobs

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

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

18. Edit Fast

Edit Fast offers part-time proofreading jobs from home.

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

19. English Trackers

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

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

20. eCorrectors

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

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

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

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

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

24. ProofreadingPal

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

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

25. Scribbr

Scribbr offers a wide range of essay editing jobs online.

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

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

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

26. Wordvice

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

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

27. Sibia Proofreading

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

28. Proofread Now

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

29. Words RU

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

30. Scribendi

Experience is required for editors and proofreaders to apply.

31. Managed Editing

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

How to Find Online Proofreading Jobs?

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

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

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

Job boards:

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

• People Per Hour
• Pro Blogger
• Virtual Vocations

Start your own website

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

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

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

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

How do you promote your work?

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

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

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

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

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

Want to explore further?

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

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

Get Paid to Proofread Online

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

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

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

Online Proofreading Jobs

17 comments.

Great info! Thanks for sharing!

Thanks Brittany!

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

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

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

I want to become a reviewer of books

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

Great info, Awesome content , thanks for sharing.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks Brittany, I have updated the link.

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Last updated on Nov 02, 2023

How to Become a Proofreader: the Ultimate Beginner's Guide

This article was written in collaboration with professional editors and proofreaders Allister Thompson , Aja Pollock , David Haviland , and Sally Apokedak . 

Proofreaders are keen-eyed professionals who specialize in going over texts to make sure no typos and grammatical mistakes are present before publication. Essentially, if you choose this career path, you'll be reading for a living, and you can do it from your own home, so what's not to like? 

If you’re interested in having a proofreading career, we’ve contacted some of our top professionals here at Reedsy to put together this comprehensive guide on how to become a proofreader in six steps:

1. Understand the proofreading job description

2. identify what proofreading services you want to offer, 3. take a proofreading course, 4. develop a strong command of style guides, 5. search for freelance proofreading jobs, 6. network and keep building your business portfolio.

Let's take a closer look.

What does a proofreader do? A proofreader does the final check of a piece of text to catch any remaining grammar and punctuation mistakes, spelling errors, or formatting issues before it reaches the eyes of the public. Their services come after developmental editing and copy editing , and make news articles, essays, books, website copy, or any other type of text error-free and ready for publication.

More specifically, proofreaders are often freelancers, and they carefully read documents from many types of clients (authors, publishers, businesses, and so on) to double-check for:

• Typographical errors
• Inconsistencies in style or layout
• Awkward page and word breaks
• Missing punctuation and spelling mistakes
• Any other issues that might spoil the reading experience.

While some authors may be tempted to skip over proofreading to save time and money, proofreading is an integral part of making any text look spot-on and professional. “A proofreader is the ‘last line of defense’ between a book that looks professional and one that is obviously amateur and sloppy,” says Allister Thompson , a proofreader with over 25 years of experience. “So a proofreader actually has a lot of responsibility in the publishing process.”

Proofreaders vs copy editors

An important distinction to make is that between copy editors and proofreaders: as opposed to copy editors, proofreaders are not necessarily concerned with the quality of the sentence on a subjective level, but how well it adheres to grammar conventions and the logic of the text. That means that a proofreader will not go into a text and make suggestions for better ways to phrase things, so long as there are no objective spelling errors, missing punctuations, or formatting issues, for example. 

Below is a table that clarifies the different steps of the editorial process. This applies best to books — in article or copywriting you may have content editing followed directly by proofreading, for instance.

Emphasizing the difference between copy editing and proofreading, Aja Pollock , a freelance editor for Simon & Schuster, HarperCollins, Penguin Random House, and Macmillan, says that “probably the main piece of advice I'd give to new proofreaders is that proofreading is not copyediting. Your job as a proofreader, aside from catching outright errors, is to back up the copy editor and make sure the style they've established is applied consistently, as stated in the style sheet.” 

“If it’s clear and consistent,” she continues, “don’t change it without checking with whoever hired you.” Unauthorized and unnecessary corrections at the proofreading stage can set the whole production schedule back and cause further issues down the line, so “as a proofreader, you need to develop a sense of when to stay in your lane.”

🎓 What qualifications do you need to become a proofreader?

While you don’t necessarily need any specific formal qualifications to become a proofreader, you do need to demonstrate somehow that you have the skills for the job. Most proofreaders will hold bachelor’s degrees in fields like English or Journalism and, most importantly, must have a strong command of language and grammar. To that, Allister Thompson adds that a skilled proofreader must be able to focus for long periods of time: 

“A distracted proofreader is a bad one. The eye always wants to skip over text, especially when you're pressed for time. You can't do that.” 

David Haviland corroborates this statement:

“Proofreading is all about focus and attention to detail. Many of the issues that a proofreader identifies are ones that most educated people would spot, if they were paying attention. But maintaining this kind of focus on every line over the course of an entire manuscript, and then doing the same thing day after day, is an acquired skill.”

Further, you should be able to spot typographical or design errors, as you might be working with laid-out book files and not just text documents.

Having a university degree or special qualifications in the form of certifications, though not strictly required, can be helpful in showcasing that you have the skills and techniques clients expect proofreaders to have, and help you stand out during the job application process.

With that said, you can study in other fields as well, especially if you want to work as a proofreader for technical or academic content. This makes the job quite accessible to students, freelance writers , and just about anyone with a sharp eye and love for the written word. You can also opt for vocational training programs that specifically teach proofreading, and which come with certifications. 

💰 How much do proofreaders make?

According to ZipRecruiter, professional proofreaders make around $23 per hour on average. As of 2023, that means the average salary of proofreaders is around $47k per year. 

That being said, proofreaders with more experience and expertise — or expertise in niche fields — can command even higher fees, with top professionals making between $30-$35 an hour. Professional proofreaders on Reedsy, for instance, can make anywhere between $600–$1,000 working on a book, depending on the book’s genre and length. 

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If you like the job description and the money sounds good, the next step towards becoming a proofreader is to pick your niche, i.e. what type of texts and industries you would like to work with.

Since media content is everywhere nowadays, you get a lot of choices. You can work with authors on books, with content creators on websites and blog posts, with scholars on academic papers, with reporters on news articles — the list goes on. With the right background, you can even proofread medical texts or court reports. 

Now, as you’re building experience, you can try your hand at a variety of projects, though the key to getting a leg up is to find a specific niche. Each field has their specific requirements in terms of language and format, so it’s simply easier to learn them one at a time. Moreover, your niche is your competitive advantage when applying for proofreading jobs : clients will appreciate expert services more than they do a melange of barely related work experiences.

If you want to work in publishing , it’s even beneficial to narrow your focus down to book genres, since they can require quite different skills. Proofreading a fantasy novel, for instance, may demand sharp attention to details and the mechanics of a fictional language, while proofreading picture books may present technical challenges, notes editor and proofreader Sally Apokedak : 

“If I proof PDFs with illustrations, I take into consideration the design of the book. For instance, maybe the text is centered and paragraphs lack indents. Quote marks can present another problem. So, when possible, I proof the work according to the interior designer ’s rules to maintain consistency.”

With this in mind, consider where your expertise and genuine interest lie, and work towards eeking out your presence in your desired niche.

If you do not yet possess the skills and qualifications to land the proofreading jobs you’re applying for, you might want to consider bulking up your resume with a proofreading course. Since there’s more to proofreading than just reading and catching a spelling mistake here and there, (and since real-life experience can be hard to come by) we highly recommend signing up to a proofreading course that can guide you through other duties of the job. This is what Aja Pollock did: 

“I took a proofreading class at NYU, just to get some kind of credential under my belt, and a class taught by someone who knows what they're doing is a great way to learn best practices and conventions for proofreading. Someone who's new to proofreading might not think to check for things like stacks and ladders or make sure the folios and running heads are correct; you should be able to come out of a class with a full checklist of things to look for beyond just typos.”

A course not only gives you a head start on understanding style guides (more on this in a bit) and grammar rules, it also allows you to familiarize yourself with editing software and provides a chance to practice proofreading while getting feedback from veteran professionals. Working together with your course mates while meeting deadlines not only shows that you're a team player, but is also a great way to kick-start your networking efforts; a proofreading course is a great place to meet potential future colleagues and employers, after all. 

Of course, each program offers different things: some might be more tailored to fiction proofreaders, others to legal paperwork; some can offer more theoretical knowledge, others come with a mentorship program. The point is to find a curriculum that provides the best training for your chosen niche. Start your research with our summary of the best proofreading courses in the market right now. 

Beyond the work that a course gives you, here are some other options to hone your proofreading skills:

Practice, practice, practice

They say practice makes perfect, so get going! Make an effort to proofread anywhere and everywhere you go (silently in your head, of course). And don’t stop with correcting grammar and spelling mistakes; think about your punctuation errors and inconsistencies in language as well. 

For more material to work on, offer to proofread a friend’s work for free. Be mindful of the context of each piece — is it a cover letter, an essay, or a website copy? What style guide would it follow? What kind of English is used — British or American? The answers to questions like these will give you the standards which the piece needs to satisfy, which is the basis of your proofreading work, as a competent proofreader knows how to distinguish between objectivity and personal preferences.

Reading texts with these criteria in mind can sharpen your skills. The more you do it, the more competent you’ll be at noticing discrepancies and errors.

Take a proofreading test

Now that you’ve studied up and practiced your proofreading skills, it’s time to test them out! There are tons of tests out there, ranging from multiple-choice quizzes to textual exercises, that are great for gauging your ability to find and recognize key errors and inconsistencies. For some quick tests, check out these sites:

• Freelance Writing
• Editing Tests

As David Haviland says: “One way or another, you need to study the art of writing clearly, stylishly and consistently.” And whether that be through a course or through other avenues, you will have to know how to work with style guides.

Style guides are manuals that provide standard guidelines for the writing and formatting of various documents. If you’re going to become a proofreader, you’re going to want to know them like the back of your hand.

Which style guides you learn, of course, depends on your niche and the types of texts you’ll work with. In many projects, however, the choice will come down to the client so, at the very least, you should acquaint yourself with the following styles:

• Chicago Manual of Style;
• APA Style; and

David Haviland notes that he will always ask his clients what style guides they prefer at the start of a project. If your client doesn’t have a preference, you can refer to whatever style guide you feel most comfortable working with.

“It's handy to have a style guide like Chicago on hand,” Thompson adds. “Or whatever style guide your client uses. It's also handy to have a style sheet for a particular project, so copy editors can be encouraged to make those to explain spellings and style choices in the book.”

“I use the Chicago Manual of Style and Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionary (online edition), as well as the house style sheet if I'm working for a publisher who has one,” Aja Pollock says. “When you start out, you may need to consult these a lot until you learn the fundamental style conventions and M-W spelling. That can slow things down when you're new to proofreading, but it's part of the learning process.”

If your niche is academic or scholarly in nature, you might also want to consider learning MLA and Turabian Style. Knowing these style guides will help you maintain objectivity and follow consistent rules whenever you’re editing a manuscript.

You can find the handbooks to these styles (which are essential resource books on editing for editorial professionals) in libraries or on the internet. Having the one you're following on hand is always a plus, even when you become an experienced proofreader!

Once you’re all trained up in the proofreading department, you’re ready for your job search. But first, a word of warning: beginners in any editorial field will have less access to quality projects in their desired specialty or genre. Do take smaller proofreading roles that come in at the beginning of your career, and always keep your eyes out for opportunities that are adjacent to your chosen specialty. 

If you manage to weather this challenging first stage, you’ll emerge on the other side with the skills and track record to pull you through the rest of your proofreading career. 

“Proofreading suits a particular kind of person who loves language, cares about the fine details, and has a critical mindset. It’s quite difficult to do well, so there will always be work for a proofreader who is professional, reliable and fastidious.” — David Haviland

Since most proofreading services are provided by freelancers — even publishing houses outsource this task often, to be more economical — you’ll find a lot of proofreading jobs on marketplaces like Reedsy or other freelancer job sites which connect you with a community of writers in need of proofreading services.

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Publishing job boards are also useful platforms to check out. And if you feel like working with a specific publisher or a media company, find and follow their editors on Twitter or LinkedIn. Managing and production editors commission proofreading services all the time — they often post something online when new gigs are available.

💡 Pro-tip: Impress your potential clients with these freelance proposal and invoice templates. 

Setting your rates

In most cases, as you’re a freelancer, you’ll get to set your own proofreading rates . Remember not to undercharge! We recommend thinking about how much you need to cover your living and business costs (think office space and time spent on keeping the books) in order to come up with an absolute minimum, below which you should not accept. 

Experience and exposure is too often used as an excuse to underpay, and you should not accept that, especially if you have nailed down the fundamental skills for the job!

Before you know it, you’ll know plenty of people in the industry and will start finding jobs with ease, perhaps even commanding higher pay. But, don’t forget: keep building your résumé and treat everyone as a potential business partner! Make sure your portfolio is always updated and includes the latest projects relevant to your career goals. 

In other words, focus on presenting pieces that reflect what you want to keep working on and cultivate your professional relationships. So if you want to proofread more fantasy novels, highlight projects that involve other-worldly elements, even if they are review articles or short stories. That way, only the suitable clients will send you a request. Or perhaps you'll know a guy who knows a guy who can hook you up with your next project.

And, Sally Apokedak reminds us, even though proofreading is less concerned with the style and flair of the writing, it’s still an art-form which you can practice and get better at: 

“In all proofing, consistency is king because there is some room for art when proofing. Some of it is science—there is never a time when ‘it's’ will be a possessive pronoun, for instance. But some of it is art—some questions could be punctuated with an exclamation point instead of a question mark, for example. So the key is to make a reasoned choice in the beginning about certain gray areas and then be consistent all the way through to the end.”

Proofreading, just like any other editorial job, will come with its challenges. It’s not uncommon for newcomers to have to deal with low wages, competitive job prospects, and long work hours. But if you put your mind to it and really invest in your craft, then making it as a proofreader will be more than worth it in the long run.

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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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Online Proofreader

Try our other writing services

Correct your document within 5 minutes

• Proofread on 100+ language issues
• Specialized in academic texts
• Corrections directly in your document

Instantly correct your entire document in minutes

Nobody's perfect all the time—and now, you don’t have to be!

There are times when you just want to write without worrying about every grammar or spelling convention. The online proofreader immediately finds all of your errors. This allows you to concentrate on the bigger picture. You’ll be 100% confident that your writing won’t affect your grade.

What does a proofreader do?

The proofreading process is your last chance to catch any errors in your writing before you submit it. A proofreader makes sure your spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors are reviewed and fixed. This can be done automatically by an AI-powered tool like the one at the top of this page or by a real human. Both options have their advantages, so pick the one that suits you most.

Fix mistakes that slip under your radar

✔ Fix problems with commonly confused words, like affect vs. effect, which vs. that and who vs. that.

✔ Catch words that sound similar but aren’t, like their vs. they’re, your vs. you’re.

✔ Check your punctuation to avoid errors with dashes and hyphens, commas, apostrophes, and more.

✔ Avoid sentence fragments, subject-verb agreement errors, and problems with parallelism.

How does the proofreader work?

The online proofreader.

It’s really straightforward. Just paste the text into the tool. All your errors will now be underlined in red. You can hover over these mistakes to see how they can be addressed. If you agree, just click on the button “Fix all errors,” and your mistakes will be fixed instantly! 

The professional proofreader

Upload your entire document first. Choose the pages you want proofread, the extra services you want to use, and the deadline. Then fill in some key details like your field of study so that we can find you the best proofreader. When you’re done, you pay for your order, and we make sure that your writing is checked by a proofreader. You’ll be contacted when the job is done!

Who should use this proofreader?

Avoid a bad grade and hand in your documents with absolute confidence.

Businesspeople

Look like a pro by writing error-free emails, reports, and more.

Ensure your work is clear and readable to increase the chance that it’ll get published.

Want your whole document checked and corrected in a matter of minutes?

Would you like to upload your entire document and check all your documents for 100+ language issues? Then Scribbr’s AI-powered proofreading is perfect for you.

With AI-powered proofreading, you can correct your text in no time.

• Upload document
• Wait briefly while all errors are corrected directly in your document
• Correct errors with one click

Proofread my document

Fantastic service!!

“Excellent review of a paper that was deciding my grade. I appreciate both the edits and the feedback to increase my knowledge of correct APA formatting and accurate citations. I needed the paper returned quickly, and the team worked hard to make sure I had what I needed. I just got my grade back, A+. I would 100% use this service again, it was worth every penny!!!!!!”

A proofreader for everyone

Don’t let typos and grammar keep you down. make your writing count, ask our team.

Want to contact us directly? No problem.  We  are always here for you.

• Email [email protected]
• Start live chat
• Call +1 (510) 822-8066
• WhatsApp +31 20 261 6040

Frequently asked questions

Our support team is here to help you daily via chat, WhatsApp, email, or phone between 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. CET.

Yes! Our personal statement editors can help you reduce your word count by up to 25%. You can choose to receive this feedback through direct edits or suggestions in comments – just select your choice when you upload your personal statement.

Our APA experts default to APA 7 for editing and formatting. For the Citation Editing Service you are able to choose between APA 6 and 7.

It is not necessary to reserve a time slot for your edit. As soon as your document is ready to be proofread, you can upload it at any time via our website . Based on your chosen deadline, our editor(s) will then proofread your document within 24 hours, 3 days, or 7 days.

If you are unsure about the availability of our services or are planning to upload a very large document (>13,000 words) with a 24 hour deadline, we recommend that you contact us beforehand via chat or email .

Scribbr is following the guidelines announced by the WHO (World Health Organization). As an online platform, all our services remain available, and we will continue to help students as usual.

Can I still place an order? Will my order be completed within the deadline? Yes, you can still place orders and orders will be delivered within the agreed upon deadline. Scribbr is an online platform – our proofreading & editing services are provided by editors working remotely from all over the world. This means Scribbr can guarantee that we will process your order with the same diligence and professionalism as always. The same holds true for our Plagiarism Checker .

Can I still contact customer support? Yes. Our support team is available from 09.00 to 23.00 CET and happy to answer any questions you might have!

Yes, if your document is longer than 20,000 words, you will get a sample of approximately 2,000 words. This sample edit gives you a first impression of the editor’s editing style and a chance to ask questions and give feedback.

How does the sample edit work?

You will receive the sample edit within 12 hours after placing your order. You then have 24 hours to let us know if you’re happy with the sample or if there’s something you would like the editor to do differently.

Read more about how the sample edit works

When you upload a large document (20,000+ words), we will ask your editor to send a sample edit of approximately 2,000 words as soon as possible. This sample edit gives you a first impression of your editor’s editing style and what you can expect from the service. You will receive it within 12 hours after uploading your order.

Why do we provide you with a sample edit?

We always aim to make you 100% happy, and Proofreading & Editing is a complex service. We want to make sure that our editing style meets your expectations before the editor improves your entire document.

Our editors are trained to follow Scribbr’s academic style . However, your preferences might deviate from our conventions. The sample edit gives you the chance to provide feedback – you can let us know if you’re happy with the sample or if there’s something you would like the editor to do differently.

Once your editor has completed your sample edit, you will receive a notification via email. You have 24 hours to reply to this email and provide us with feedback. If we receive your feedback in time, your editor will go the extra mile and adjust the edit according to your input.

What sort of feedback can you give?

Give us feedback that will help your editor meet your requirements. For example:

• “I am completely happy. The editor can continue editing like this.”
• “I forgot to mention that my school has the following rules for gendered pronouns.”
• “The editor changed the spelling of a technical term, but my professor spells it differently. Please keep the original spelling of this term.”

The  Structure  and Clarity Check can only be purchased in conjunction with Proofreading & Editing . Providing feedback on structure and clarity requires extensive knowledge of the text, which the editor acquires while proofreading and editing your text.

However, our Paper Formatting Service,   Citation Editing Service and Plagiarism Checker can be purchased separately.

Yes, Scribbr will proofread the summary in another language as well.

Who will proofread my summary?

If your document contains a summary in a different language, we will send this part to another editor who is a native speaker of that language. The editor will check your summary, applying our standard Proofreading & Editing service.

If you ordered any additional services, such as the Structure Check or Clarity Check, the editor will not apply them to your summary. This is because the summary is a translation of your abstract – you already receive Structure and Clarity feedback on the text in the original language. Therefore, when proofreading your summary, the editor will focus on making sure your language and style is correct.

How does it work?

We will create a new assignment within your order and send you a confirmation email. This also means that you will receive a separate email/SMS notification from us when the editor has finished proofreading your summary. Once your summary is proofread, you can download it via your Scribbr account and read the editor’s feedback.

Yes, we can provide a certificate of proofreading.

As soon as the editor delivers the edit, you can email us at [email protected] to request a certificate.

Please indicate the following in your email:

• Your order number
• Your full name
• The title of your work

We will create a PDF certificate and email it to you as soon as possible.

Scribbr specializes in editing study-related documents . We proofread:

• PhD dissertations
• Research proposals
• Personal statements
• Admission essays
• Motivation letters
• Reflection papers
• Journal articles
• Capstone projects

Yes, when you accept all changes and delete all comments your document is ready to be handed in.

How to accept all changes:

• Word for Mac 2011

How to remove all comments:

When you’ve finished this, others will no longer be able to see the changes made by the editor.

• Read your last version one last time to make sure everything is the way you want it.
• Save your document as a .pdf file to come across more professional and to ensure the format of your document doesn’t change.

Yes, in the order process you can indicate your preference for American, British, or Australian English .

If you don’t choose one, your editor will follow the style of English you currently use. If your editor has any questions about this, we will contact you.

Yes, you can upload your thesis in sections.

We try our best to ensure that the same editor checks all the different sections of your thesis. When you upload a new file, our system recognizes you as a returning customer, and we immediately contact the editor who helped you before.

However, we cannot guarantee that the same editor will be available. Your chances are higher if

• You send us your text as soon as possible and
• You can be flexible about the deadline.

Please note that the shorter your deadline is, the bigger the risk that your previous editor is not available.

If your previous editor isn’t available, then we will inform you immediately and look for another qualified editor. Fear not! Every Scribbr editor follows the  Scribbr Improvement Model  and will deliver high-quality work.

However, every editor has a slightly different editing style, so you may notice small inconsistencies in editing choices. As with every proofreading order, be sure to carefully review your editor’s changes and suggestions as you finalize your text to ensure that everything is as you want it.

The fastest turnaround time is 12 hours.

You can upload your document at any time and choose between three deadlines:

At Scribbr, we promise to make every customer 100% happy with the service we offer. Our philosophy: Your complaint is always justified – no denial, no doubts.

Our customer support team is here to find the solution that helps you the most, whether that’s a free new edit or a refund for the service.

Every Scribbr order comes with our award-winning Proofreading & Editing service , which combines two important stages of the revision process.

For a more comprehensive edit, you can add a Structure Check or Clarity Check to your order. With these building blocks, you can customize the kind of feedback you receive.

You might be familiar with a different set of editing terms. To help you understand what you can expect at Scribbr, we created this table:

View an example

Scribbr not only specializes in proofreading and editing texts in English , but also in several other languages . This way, we help out students from all over the world.

As a global academic writing proofreading service, we work with professional editors  – all native speakers – who edit in the following languages :

This way, you can also have your academic writing proofread and edited in your second language!

Please note that we do not offer Finnish proofreading, but students can still upload English papers on scribbr.fi .

Yes, regardless of the deadline you choose, our editors can proofread your document during weekends and holidays.

Example: If you select the 12-hour service on Saturday, you will receive your edited document back within 12 hours on Sunday.

The footnotes are not automatically included in the word count.

If you want the language errors in your footnotes to be corrected by the editor, you can indicate this in step 3 of the upload process . The words in the footnotes are then automatically added to the total word count.

Need help with your references?

• If you use the APA reference style, you can use our free APA Citation Generator or the articles about APA in our Knowledge Base.
• If you’d like us to check your references for consistency, you can use our Citation Editing Service .

To keep our prices competitive, we do not offer a free trial edit. However, if your document is longer than 30,000 words, we are happy to provide you with a sample edit of 2,000 words to ensure you are satisfied with the editor’s editing style.

Rest assured, our customers are very satisfied with our proofreading services. We’re proud that they have rated us with an excellent 4.6 on Trustpilot. In the unlikely event that you have a less positive experience, we’ll solve that with our 100% happiness guarantee !

After your thesis has been edited , you will receive an email with a link to download the edited document.

The editor has made changes to your document using ‘ Track Changes ’ in Word.  This means that you only have to accept or ignore the changes that are made in the text one by one.

It is also possible to accept all changes at once. However, we strongly advise you not to do so for the following reasons:

• You can learn much by looking at what mistakes you have made.
• The editors do not only change the text, they also place comments when sentences or sometimes even entire paragraphs are unclear. We therefore advise you to read through these comments and take into account your editor’s tips and suggestions.
• Because of the many changes, sometimes there may be double spaces, double periods, or other minor mistakes in a sentence. Checking the changes one by one, you can easily detect these minor errors.

We have written a manual in which we explain step by step how ‘Track Changes’ works.

Check out an example

Our editors are very experienced and will do their utmost to correct all errors in your thesis .

However, with our current rates, an editor can only check your thesis once. This may cause an editor to overlook an error. We can therefore not guarantee that your thesis is 100% error free after you have had your thesis edited.

The editor uses ‘Track Changes’ in Word when editing your thesis.

Don’t know how this works? Then read the following guide  in which we explain step by step how ‘Track Changes’ works.

No, we do not provide you with a clean copy. You will always receive a file edited with tracked changes .

We do this for two main reasons:

• In most papers, there are sentences that the editor cannot edit without additional information from the author. In these cases, your editor will provide guidance but leave you to implement the feedback. If we were to simply accept the changes for you, then these issues would be left unaddressed.
• We believe students should be accountable for their work. Our editors can correct language errors and coach you to be a better writer. However, the end product belongs to you and should reflect your ideas and decisions.

All Scribbr editors are language experts with interests in different subject areas.

You can indicate your field of study when you upload your document . We’ll make sure that the editor who proofreads your work is familiar with your discipline and its specialist vocabulary.

These are the fields of study you can choose from, and examples of the main subjects in each field:

• Business and Management: Business Administration, Hotel Management, Accountancy, Marketing
• Economics: Business Economics, Econometrics, Finance
• IT and Engineering: ICT, Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Applied Mathematics, Civil Engineering, Industrial Design, Electrical Engineering
• Natural and Life Sciences: Biomedical Sciences, Biology, Chemistry
• Geography, Agriculture and Environment: Ecology, Earth Sciences, Environmental Studies, Urban Planning
• Health and Medical Sciences: Medicine, Obstetrics, Pharmacy, Nutrition, Dentistry
• Arts and Humanities: Philosophy, History, Literature, Cultural Studies, Theology
• Law and Policy: Law, Political Science, Public Policy, Human Rights
• Social and Behavioral Sciences: Psychology, Sociology, Anthropology, Communication Sciences

Editors don’t have to be experts in the content of your paper, but they do know how to present it in the best way possible! Our goal is to improve your writing and give you feedback on the readability, structure, logic, and clarity of your text. We know from experience that the most effective editors are specialists in language and academic writing.

We’ve carefully selected and trained all of our editors to proofread theses and other academic documents. Once they’re qualified, we continue to carefully monitor their work to make sure we always deliver the highest quality .

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

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Last Updated on November 12, 2022 by Rebecca Lake

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

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

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

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

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

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What Is Proofreading and What Do Proofreaders Do?

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

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

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

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

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

Are proofreaders in demand?

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

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

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

What are the basic requirements to become an online proofreader?

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

Those skills include:

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

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

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

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

Want to get paid to proofread?

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

How much money do online proofreaders make?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

35 Best Proofreading Jobs for Beginners

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

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

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

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

Finally, take a look at the pay. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. FlexJobs

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

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

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

5. Virtual Vocations

Virtual Vocations is also a remote work job board. 

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

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

6. Clickworker

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

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

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

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

7. Proofreading Pal

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

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

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

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

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

8. Telus International (formerly Lionbridge)

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

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

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

9. Get Editing Jobs

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

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

10. ProofreadingServices.com

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

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

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

11. LinkedIn 

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

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

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

12. Freelancer.com

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

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

13. Polished Paper

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

This site hires freelance proofreaders to review:

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

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

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

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

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

15. PeoplePerHour

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

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

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

16. Wordvice

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

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

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

17. Mediabistro

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

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

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

18. American Journal Experts

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

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

19. Robert Half

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

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

20. Gramlee

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

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

21. Writer’s Relief

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

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

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

22. OneSpace

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

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

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

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

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

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

24. Managed Editing

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

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

25. Scribendi

Scribendi offers editing and proofreading services for businesses.  

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

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

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

26. Scribie

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

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

27. Edit Fast

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

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

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

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

28. WritingJobz.com

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

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

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

29. Domainite

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

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

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

30. R3ciprocity

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

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

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

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

31. Academia-Research

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

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

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

32. Babbletype

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

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

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

33. EditorLive

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

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

34. MotherWorks

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

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

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

35. Scribe Media

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

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

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

Start a Proofreading Business

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

So how do you do that?

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

Here are the pros of starting your own proofreading business:

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

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

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

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

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

What do you need to start an online proofreading business?

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

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

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

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

Do you need to take a proofreading course?

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

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

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

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

There are two things to keep in mind, though.

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to Find Proofreading Jobs From Home

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

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

All of those options can lead to paying gigs.

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

Final thoughts on online proofreading jobs for beginners

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

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

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

Need more money tips? Read these posts next:

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

Best Online Proofreading Jobs for Beginners

About Rebecca Lake

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

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Make Money Proofreading: 18 Best Online Proofreading Jobs

Are you someone with a keen eye for errors and a passion for words? If so, then online proofreading jobs could be the perfect way for you to make money from home. Whether you’re a grammar nerd, a teacher, or a college student looking to supplement your income, proofreading offers flexible and low-cost opportunities to earn money.

In this article, I will explore the best online proofreading jobs for 2024. You’ll discover various platforms and companies that offer remote proofreading work, allowing you to work from the comfort of your own home. So, let’s dive in and uncover the exciting possibilities that await aspiring proofreaders!

Key Takeaways:

• Proofreading jobs provide a flexible and low-cost way to earn money from home.
• Online proofreading jobs are ideal for grammar nerds, teachers, and college students.
• There are numerous platforms and companies offering remote proofreading opportunities.
• Proofreading requires strong grammar, spelling, and attention to detail.
• Building a professional profile and networking are crucial for finding proofreading jobs.

What is Proofreading?

Proofreading is an essential part of the writing process that involves meticulously checking written content for spelling, grammar, punctuation, and formatting errors. It is the final step before content is published or shared, ensuring that documents are error-free and ready for consumption by the intended audience.

Proofreaders play a crucial role in maintaining the quality and professionalism of written materials, including articles, blog posts, essays, reports, and more. They not only correct errors but also improve the overall clarity, coherence, and flow of the text.

Proofreading requires a keen eye for detail and an excellent command of language. It is a job that demands a high level of concentration and patience, as even the smallest mistakes can have significant implications for the credibility and effectiveness of the content.

“Good proofreading is invisible – it allows the reader to focus on the message rather than being distracted by errors.”

By meticulously reviewing and revising written materials, proofreaders ensure that the intended message is communicated clearly and effectively. They apply their knowledge of grammar, punctuation rules, and style guidelines (such as APA, MLA, or Chicago style) to ensure consistency and accuracy throughout the document.

However, it’s important to note that proofreading is distinct from editing. While proofreading primarily focuses on error correction, editing involves more substantial changes to the content, such as improving sentence structure, rewriting sections for clarity, and enhancing the overall readability of the text.

The Role of a Proofreader

A proofreader’s job description typically includes:

• Checking for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors
• Ensuring consistency in formatting and style
• Verifying proper word usage and sentence construction
• Identifying and correcting typographical errors
• Suggesting revisions to improve clarity and readability
• Reviewing citations and references for accuracy
• Flagging any factual inconsistencies or inaccuracies

A skilled proofreader possesses a strong attention to detail, excellent communication skills, and the ability to work independently. While it is crucial to have a solid foundation in grammar and language, proofreaders also need to be adaptable and open to learning new styles, formats, and industry-specific terminology.

Overall, the role of a proofreader is to ensure that written content is polished, error-free, and ready to leave a lasting impression on readers. Their meticulous work adds value to the written word, maximizing its impact and effectiveness.

Proofreading vs. Editing

When it comes to refining written content, proofreading and editing play distinct roles. Although they share similarities, there is a crucial difference between the two. Proofreading primarily focuses on correcting grammar and punctuation errors, ensuring the text adheres to the rules of linguistic precision. On the other hand, editing involves making more substantial changes to a piece of writing, such as reorganizing sentences and enhancing overall clarity.

While proofreading polishes the final product and ensures error-free communication, editing goes beyond surface-level corrections to improve the overall quality and effectiveness of the content. Editors work on structure, flow, and coherence, ensuring that the message is conveyed clearly and concisely. They may also address issues like tone, consistency, and formatting to optimize the final product for the intended audience.

In essence, proofreading is the last line of defense before publication, ensuring that the text is free of grammar and punctuation mistakes. Editing, on the other hand, involves a deeper dive into refining and elevating the writing, enhancing its impact and readability. Both proofreading and editing are essential processes in producing well-crafted and error-free content.

Differences Between Proofreading and Editing:

Scope: Proofreading targets grammar and punctuation errors, while editing encompasses broader aspects like structure, clarity, and coherence. Goals: Proofreading aims to catch and correct surface-level mistakes, ensuring accuracy and adherence to linguistic rules. Editing aims to improve the overall quality of the writing, refining it for better communication and comprehension. Focus: Proofreading emphasizes error detection and correction, while editing focuses on optimizing content for clarity, coherence, and impact. Depth of Changes: Proofreading typically involves minor changes, such as fixing typos, eliminating redundancies, and adjusting punctuation. Editing involves more substantial changes, including rewording sentences, restructuring paragraphs, and rewriting sections for improved flow and engagement.

Both proofreading and editing serve unique purposes in the writing process, complementing one another to produce polished, effective, and reader-friendly content.

How Much Do Proofreaders Make?

As a proofreader, your earning potential can be influenced by various factors, including your experience, location, and the type of clients you work with. It’s important to understand the average proofreader salary , proofreading rates , and proofreading income to set realistic expectations for your career.

On average, proofreaders make between $20 and $40 per hour. However, this range can vary depending on several factors. For example, proofreaders with more experience and a strong track record may be able to command higher rates. Additionally, proofreaders who work with high-profile clients or in specialized industries may have higher earning potential.

To provide a deeper insight into proofreader salaries, here is a breakdown of median annual salaries based on data from reputable sources:

It’s important to note that these figures are averages and can vary depending on individual circumstances. Factors such as location, demand for proofreading services, and the client base you target can all influence your earning potential as a proofreader.

While a proofreader’s income can be rewarding, it’s essential to approach the profession with a realistic understanding of the salary range and factors that impact earnings. As you gain experience and build your reputation, you may have opportunities to increase your rates and secure higher-paying projects.

Remember that building a successful proofreading career requires continuous learning, honing your skills, and staying updated on industry trends. By providing high-quality proofreading services and delivering exceptional results, you can attract clients willing to pay top dollar for your expertise.

Next, we will delve into the essential skills needed to excel in the field of proofreading. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced professional, developing these skills will contribute to your success as a proofreader.

Do I Need Special Skills To Make Money Proofreading?

To be successful in the field of proofreading, certain skills and qualifications are essential. Strong grammar, punctuation, and spelling skills are the foundation of a proficient proofreader. Attention to detail is crucial to catch even the smallest errors, ensuring that the final product is polished and error-free. Effective communication skills are also important, as they allow proofreaders to provide clear feedback and address any concerns or questions.

Time management is another skill that is highly valued in proofreading. Meeting deadlines and managing multiple projects simultaneously are common challenges that proofreaders face. Being able to prioritize tasks and work efficiently is key to delivering quality work on time.

In addition to these core skills, familiarity with style guides such as MLA, APA, or Chicago style can be a significant advantage. These guides provide standardized rules and formatting conventions for various types of documents. While familiarity with these guides is not a requirement, it can enhance a proofreader’s qualifications and make their services more appealing to clients.

Proofreading Skills:

• Strong grammar, punctuation, and spelling
• Attention to detail
• Effective communication
• Time management
• Familiarity with style guides (MLA, APA, Chicago style)

Proofreading Qualifications:

While there are no strict qualifications required to become a proofreader , having a solid set of skills and certifications can significantly boost your credibility and marketability. There are a variety of online courses and certification programs that provide training in proofreading techniques, grammar rules, and industry-specific terminology. Additionally, obtaining a degree in English, journalism, or a related field can also enhance your qualifications as a proofreader.

Ultimately, the proofreading industry values skill and quality of work above formal qualifications. Building a strong portfolio and gaining experience through freelance work or internships can be just as valuable, if not more so, than having a specific degree. The ability to showcase your expertise through real-world examples of your proofreading work will speak volumes to potential clients and employers.

Do I Need a Degree To Find Proofreading Jobs?

When it comes to finding online proofreading jobs , having a degree is not always a requirement. While some clients may prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree, what matters more is your track record, references, and the quality of your work. Don’t worry if you don’t have a degree in English or a related field – it’s not a prerequisite for success as a proofreader.

What clients are truly looking for is someone with the necessary proofreading qualifications and education. They want to see that you have the skills and expertise to effectively review and edit written content. While a degree can provide a solid foundation in writing and language, there are many other ways to acquire these skills.

Proofreading is more about demonstrating your ability to catch errors, maintain consistent style, and improve overall readability. It’s about attention to detail, grammar proficiency, and a keen eye for spotting mistakes. These skills can be developed through experience, independent study, and specialized training programs.

Gain a competitive edge in the proofreading industry by continually honing your skills and staying up-to-date with the latest industry trends. Consider pursuing proofreading certifications or taking relevant courses to refine your abilities.

Personal Development and Continuous Learning

While a degree is not essential, ongoing education is crucial for staying competitive as a proofreader. The field of proofreading is constantly evolving, and being knowledgeable about new writing conventions, style guides, and industry-specific terminology will set you apart from other candidates.

Take advantage of online resources, such as grammar and style guides, to deepen your understanding of language rules and best practices. Additionally, consider joining professional networks, attending webinars, or participating in discussion forums to connect with other proofreaders and access valuable insights.

Remember, earning a degree is not the be-all and end-all of finding success as a proofreader. It’s your skills, qualifications, and commitment to continuous learning that will truly advance your career.

Pursuing Proofreading Certifications

Although certifications are not mandatory for proofreading jobs, they can serve as valuable credentials that demonstrate your expertise to potential clients. Several organizations offer proofreading certifications that can enhance your professional reputation and open up new opportunities.

Some recognized proofreading certifications include:

• Editors Canada Certification
• American Society of Journalists and Authors (ASJA) Certification
• Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading (CIEP) Certification

Having these certifications not only adds credibility to your profile but also showcases your commitment to excellence in the field of proofreading.

The Importance of Building a Strong Portfolio

A robust portfolio showcasing your proofreading work is often more influential than having a degree alone. Clients want to see evidence of your skills in action and the quality of your edits. By building a strong portfolio, you can demonstrate your abilities, showcase your experience, and highlight your proofreading successes.

Be selective when including samples in your portfolio. Choose pieces that showcase your range as a proofreader and highlight your ability to improve written content. Consider offering your services pro bono or collaborating with other aspiring writers to gain experience and expand your portfolio.

Your portfolio is a powerful tool that can help you secure proofreading jobs, even without a degree. Focus on continually improving your skills, networking with industry professionals, and showcasing your best work to maximize your chances of success.

Remember, success in the proofreading industry is not solely dependent on having a degree. It’s about having the right qualifications, continuously developing your skills, and showcasing your expertise through a strong portfolio. With dedication and a commitment to ongoing improvement, you can thrive as a proofreader.

Pros and Cons of Proofreading

As with any job or career choice, proofreading has its pros and cons. Let’s explore the benefits and drawbacks of working as a proofreader.

Benefits of Proofreading

• Low barriers to entry: Starting a proofreading business doesn’t require extensive education or certifications. With a solid foundation in grammar and strong attention to detail, you can begin proofreading and start making money.
• Low start-up costs: Unlike many other businesses, starting a proofreading business doesn’t require a significant financial investment. All you need is a computer, internet access, and editing tools to get started.
• Work from home: Proofreading offers the flexibility to work from the comfort of your own home. This eliminates commuting time and expenses, allowing you to create a better work-life balance.
• Flexible hours: As a proofreader, you have the freedom to choose your working hours. Whether you prefer to work during the day, in the evening, or even on weekends, you can set your schedule to suit your lifestyle.

Drawbacks of Proofreading

• Strict deadlines: Proofreading often involves working with deadlines. Meeting these deadlines requires discipline and effective time management skills to ensure timely submission of error-free documents.
• Potential for lower pay at the beginning: When starting out as a proofreader , it’s common to earn lower rates until you establish a reputation and client base. Patience and perseverance are crucial during this initial phase.
• Competition with other proofreaders: The availability of online proofreading jobs means that there is competition for clients. Differentiating yourself through quality work and excellent customer service can help you stand out in the field.

“Proofreading has its benefits, such as flexibility and low start-up costs, but it also comes with challenges like adhering to strict deadlines and facing competition from other proofreaders. It’s important to weigh these pros and cons before embarking on a career in proofreading.”

Despite the drawbacks, the benefits of proofreading often outweigh the challenges, making it an appealing career choice for those with a passion for language and a keen eye for detail. Now that we’ve explored the pros and cons of proofreading , let’s move on to the essential tools that every proofreader should have in their toolkit. But before that, take a moment to pause and reflect on the advantages and disadvantages of being a proofreader.

Essential Tools for Beginning Proofreaders

As a proofreader, I rely on a variety of tools to enhance my efficiency and accuracy. These essential proofreading software , resources, and proofreading tools make my job easier and ensure that I deliver error-free content.

1. Spellcheckers

Spellcheckers are a proofreader’s best friend. Most word processors and computers come with built-in spellcheckers that can help you catch spelling errors. They highlight misspelled words and offer suggestions for corrections. It’s essential to run a spellcheck before submitting any document to ensure it’s error-free.

2. Grammarly

Grammarly is an advanced grammar checking software that goes beyond basic spellcheckers. It helps to identify grammar, punctuation, and even contextual errors in your writing. Grammarly offers real-time suggestions and explanations, allowing you to improve your writing skills over time. It’s a must-have proofreading tool for any beginner or experienced proofreader.

3. Cloud-Based Document Sharing Platforms

Cloud-based document sharing platforms like Google Docs make it easy to collaborate with clients or fellow proofreaders. These platforms allow you to share documents, make edits in real-time, and leave comments for others. With cloud-based platforms, you can work efficiently and seamlessly with multiple clients, saving time and effort.

4. File Storage and Sharing Services

File storage and sharing services like Dropbox provide a secure and convenient way to store and share files. As a proofreader, you may need to access documents from multiple devices or share them with clients. File storage services ensure that your files are easily accessible and can be shared with just a few clicks.

5. Style Guides

Style guides, such as the MLA, APA, or Chicago style guides, are valuable resources for proofreaders. They provide guidelines for formatting, citations, and references. Familiarizing yourself with these style guides will help you ensure that your documents adhere to the appropriate standards and meet your clients’ requirements.

6. Thesaurus

A thesaurus is an indispensable tool for finding synonyms and expanding your vocabulary. It allows you to choose the most precise and appropriate words for your writing. When proofreading, a thesaurus can help you avoid repetitive words and improve the overall quality of the content.

These essential tools and resources are just the beginning. As you gain experience and refine your proofreading skills , you may discover new tools that work best for you. Remember, investing in reliable proofreading software and staying up-to-date with the latest resources will help you become a more effective and successful proofreader.

18 Best Online Proofreading Jobs From Home in 2024

Looking for the best online proofreading jobs ? There are several platforms and companies that offer exciting opportunities for remote proofreading work in 2024. Whether you’re looking for freelance gigs or long-term positions, these top proofreading gigs have got you covered.

At Fiverr, you can create a profile and showcase your proofreading skills to attract clients who require your expertise. This platform offers a wide range of online proofreading job opportunities .

Facebook Groups

Joining Facebook groups that specialize in proofreading and editing can give you access to a community of professionals in the field. This can lead to job opportunities and networking connections.

Upwork is a popular freelance platform where you can set up your profile, highlight your skills, and bid on proofreading jobs. This platform offers a variety of online proofreading job opportunities .

Proofreading Services

Proofreading Services is a company that hires remote proofreaders to work on a variety of projects. They offer part-time and full-time positions, making it a great option for those seeking stable online proofreading jobs.

These are just a few of the top online proofreading job opportunities available in 2024. Whether you’re a seasoned proofreader or just starting out, there are plenty of options to choose from. Explore these platforms and companies to find the best online proofreading jobs that suit your skills and preferences.

How To Get Online Proofreading Jobs for Beginners

If you’re just starting out as a proofreader and are looking to break into the online proofreading industry, there are several steps you can take to increase your chances of getting hired.

Build a Professional Profile

Creating a professional profile is crucial when you’re starting your proofreading career. It allows clients to get an idea of your skills and experience. Consider including any relevant education, certifications, and previous proofreading projects you’ve worked on. Showcase your attention to detail and commitment to delivering high-quality work.

Specialize in a Niche

Developing expertise in a specific niche can set you apart from other proofreaders and attract clients looking for specialized knowledge. It could be anything from academic papers to business documents or creative writing. Focusing on a niche allows you to position yourself as an expert in that field, giving you a competitive edge.

Offer Competitive Rates

As a beginner, offering competitive rates can help you attract clients and build your portfolio. Research the current market rates for proofreading services and set your prices accordingly. Keep in mind that as you gain experience and build a reputation, you can gradually increase your rates.

Network with Other Professionals

Networking with other professionals in the proofreading industry can open up new opportunities and lead to valuable referrals. Join online communities, forums, and social media groups dedicated to proofreading. Engage in conversations, ask questions, and offer insights. Building relationships with other proofreaders and industry experts can help you tap into a wider network and discover new job prospects.

Take Advantage of Free Resources and Training

There are numerous free resources and training programs available to beginner proofreaders. One valuable resource is the Well-Paid Proofreader seminar, which provides insights, tips, and strategies for success in the proofreading industry. Additionally, online forums, blogs, and webinars offer a wealth of information on improving your skills and finding job opportunities.

By following these tips for beginner proofreaders , you can increase your chances of getting online proofreading jobs and establish a successful career in the industry.

How To Make Money Proofreading in 2024: The Final Word

Proofreading is a viable way to make money in 2024, providing flexible work opportunities and the potential for earning a steady income. As a remote proofreader, you have the freedom to choose when and where you work, making it an ideal side hustle or even a full-time career. By honing your proofreading skills , leveraging online platforms, and effectively marketing yourself, you can establish a successful and profitable business in the field.

One of the first steps to making money proofreading is to improve and refine your proofreading skills. This involves ensuring a solid understanding of grammar, punctuation, and spelling rules. Additionally, staying up-to-date with style guides and industry standards can enhance your credibility and make you a sought-after proofreading professional.

Once you feel confident in your abilities, it’s time to leverage online platforms to find clients and work opportunities. Websites like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer offer a range of proofreading gigs where you can showcase your skills and attract potential clients. Creating a professional profile that highlights your expertise and previous work experience can significantly boost your chances of landing high-paying projects.

Marketing yourself effectively is also essential to make money proofreading . Building a strong online presence through a professional website or social media platforms demonstrates your professionalism and attracts potential clients. Networking with other professionals in the industry, joining relevant groups and communities, and attending industry events can also help you expand your client base and access new job opportunities.

“As a proofreader, I have found that continuous learning and professional development are key to staying competitive in this field. Keeping up with industry trends, attending webinars, and investing in educational resources can enhance your skills and set you apart from the competition.”

By delivering high-quality work, meeting deadlines, and providing exceptional customer service, you can build a reputation as a reliable and trusted proofreader, leading to repeat clients and positive word-of-mouth referrals. Increasing your rates as you gain experience and receive positive feedback is another way to increase your earning potential over time.

“To grow your proofreading business, it’s important to prioritize client satisfaction. Responding to inquiries promptly, maintaining clear communication, and delivering error-free work are crucial. Going the extra mile and providing value-added services, such as suggesting improvements to the overall writing style, can greatly enhance client satisfaction and lead to long-term partnerships.”

In conclusion , proofreading offers excellent opportunities to earn income and establish a successful career in 2024. By continuously honing your skills, leveraging online platforms, and marketing yourself effectively, you can position yourself as a valuable proofreading professional and enjoy a flexible and fulfilling side hustle or full-time job.

Quick Picks: Start Proofreading TODAY

If you’re eager to start proofreading and want to find jobs quickly, there are several platforms you can explore. I recommend checking out the following options:

FlexJobs : As an excellent job site, FlexJobs provides vetted remote and flexible job opportunities, including proofreading positions. It’s a trusted platform where you can find legitimate work-from-home opportunities.

Upwork : Upwork is a popular freelance platform where you can create a profile and offer your proofreading services to potential clients. It’s a great place to start building your client base and gaining experience.

Fiverr : Fiverr is another widely-used freelance platform that allows you to showcase your proofreading skills and connect with clients looking for quick proofreading gigs. Create a compelling profile and offer your services at competitive rates to attract potential clients.

By utilizing these platforms, you can jumpstart your proofreading career and find jobs that match your skills and preferences. Remember to create a professional profile, highlight your qualifications, and provide samples of your previous work to stand out from the competition.

If you’re ready to start proofreading today, these platforms offer quick-start proofreading jobs , immediate proofreading opportunities , and fast proofreading gigs to get you started on your journey!

Best Entry-level Proofreading Jobs Online

If you’re new to proofreading and looking for entry-level opportunities, certain companies and platforms specialize in hiring beginners. These entry-level proofreading jobs are perfect for those starting their career in proofreading and seeking valuable experience in the field.

These platforms provide a supportive environment for beginners to gain practical experience, build their resume, and enhance their proofreading skills. By starting in entry-level positions, you can gain the necessary knowledge and expertise to advance in your proofreading career.

Best High-Paying Proofreading Jobs Online

As an experienced proofreader with specialized skills, you have the opportunity to find high-paying proofreading jobs online. Several platforms offer well-compensated positions for top-earning proofreaders. Here are some of the best platforms that provide these well-paid proofreading positions :

• Scribendi: Scribendi is a renowned online editing and proofreading company that offers high-paying proofreading jobs . They provide services to various clients, including businesses, authors, and academics.
• ProofreadingNow: ProofreadingNow is a platform that specializes in providing proofreading and editing services to clients. They offer well-paid proofreading positions to experienced proofreaders with strong language and grammar skills.
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• CactusGlobal: CactusGlobal is a company that offers editing and proofreading services in various fields, including medical, pharmaceutical, and engineering. They recruit experienced proofreaders with subject-specific expertise and provide high-paying proofreading gigs.

These platforms typically require proofreaders to have a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience in the field. However, they offer the potential for substantial earnings and the opportunity to work on diverse projects.

With the demand for top-quality proofreading services increasing, these high-paying proofreading jobs provide a rewarding career path for skilled proofreaders.

In conclusion , proofreading offers a flexible and potentially lucrative way to make money online. Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience, there are numerous opportunities available to suit your skills and preferences. By leveraging the right platforms and honing your proofreading skills, you can establish a successful career as an online proofreader.

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With dedication and persistence, proofreading can be a fulfilling side hustle or even a full-time career. Start your proofreading journey today and take advantage of the ample opportunities that the online world has to offer.

What is proofreading?

Proofreading involves checking written content for spelling, grammar, punctuation, and formatting errors to ensure it is error-free and ready for consumption.

What is the difference between proofreading and editing?

Proofreading focuses on correcting grammar and punctuation errors, while editing involves more substantial changes to writing, such as restructuring sentences and improving overall clarity.

How much do proofreaders make?

Proofreader salaries vary, but on average, proofreaders make – per hour, with median annual salaries ranging from ,171 to ,805.

What skills do I need to make money proofreading?

Strong grammar, punctuation, and spelling skills are essential, along with time management, attention to detail, and effective communication skills.

Do I need a degree to find proofreading jobs?

While some clients may require a degree, it is not a universal requirement. Your track record, references, and the quality of your work are often more important.

What are the pros and cons of proofreading?

Pros include low barriers to entry, low start-up costs, the ability to work from home, and flexible hours. Cons include strict deadlines, potential lower pay at the beginning, and competition for jobs.

What are the essential tools for beginning proofreaders?

Essential tools include spellcheckers, grammar checking software, document sharing platforms, and file storage and sharing services.

What are the best online proofreading jobs for 2024?

Some of the best options include Fiverr, Facebook groups, Upwork, and Proofreading Services, among others.

How can I get online proofreading jobs as a beginner?

Building a professional profile, specializing in a niche, offering competitive rates, and networking with other professionals can increase your chances of getting hired.

How can I make money proofreading in 2024?

By honing your proofreading skills, leveraging online platforms, and marketing yourself effectively, you can establish a successful career as a remote proofreader.

Where can I find quick-start proofreading jobs?

Platforms like FlexJobs, Upwork, and Fiverr provide vetted remote and flexible job opportunities, including proofreading positions.

What are the best entry-level proofreading jobs online?

Companies like Proofreading Services, Domainite, Jobsforeditors, and Gramlee offer entry-level proofreading jobs that can provide valuable experience and help build your resume.

What are the best high-paying proofreading jobs online?

Platforms like Scribendi, ProofreadingNow, Scribbr, and CactusGlobal offer well-compensated proofreading positions for experienced proofreaders.

What is my final word on making money proofreading?

Proofreading is a flexible and potentially lucrative way to make money in 2024, providing opportunities for a steady income and career growth.

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Money posts:

Gen Z embraces side hustles because ‘loyalty is dead’

Gen zers are selling services, products and advice online to make extra money and build their skills.

Natalie Fischer is obsessed with making money online. Even though the 25-year-old has a master’s degree and landed a data analytics job that paid six figures, the Seattle-area resident has always had online side hustles. At one point, she was working up to an extra 30 hours a week by offering tips on personal finance as well as promoting products and brands across social media. In July, she quit her corporate job to become a full-time side hustler.

“You just can’t rely on one income anymore,” said Fischer, who notes that she’s on track to make more money than her corporate job by end of year and expects that to increase “exponentially” in the years to come.

A growing number of young workers like Fischer are taking on side hustles to make extra cash, develop their skills, build their relationships and release creative energy by selling online tutorials, products and services and influencing on social media. Gen Zers — those born after 1996 — grew up with access to digital devices and the internet their entire lives, and many are keen on using them to make money. For many, the 2008 financial crisis arrived during their adolescence, and they spent some of their formative years of school during pandemic shutdowns and saw companies lay off thousands of workers in the aftermath.

Digital side hustles have low entry barriers to make additional income, and they’re often aspirational for young people who grew up watching social media influencers, academics who study business and entrepreneurship said.

“Now you can easily spin something up,” said Aaron McDaniel, adjunct professor of entrepreneurship and innovation at the University of California at Berkeley’s Haas School of Business. “Platforms … help you take a creative outlet and make money.”

Fischer found her niche posting content on personal finance — something she initially did for fun. She loved the idea of someday being her own boss and had taken a few social media marketing and entrepreneurship courses online. But when she started posting on Instagram about her journey as a first-time investor in the stock market during the coronavirus pandemic, she quickly attracted an audience. She turned inbound questions into TikToks and gained more than 56,000 followers there, allowing her to get sponsorships and create content for brands.

@investwithnat Replying to @I ask questions&forage🐟🍄🌎 exposing how much I made as a influencer and content creator in 2023 (part time) #moneytok #incomestreams #howmuchimade #ugccreator #contentcreator #creatortips #moneytransparency ♬ original sound - Natalie Fischer | Finance BFF

“People were loving it, but also some were hating it,” Fischer said about her first TikToks. “I’m Asian and I look young, so people were like, ‘How can this girl be talking about investing when she doesn’t look old enough to walk to school?’”

But age hasn’t stopped Gen Zers from making the most of what they know. Colin Stroud, a 24-year-old in Columbus, Ohio, found his digital side hustle after gaining traction from a LinkedIn post about how to get to Hawaii on credit card reward points. So Stroud, who is between jobs, started posting what he already knew from his research on traveling with points. Before he knew it, people were asking him for personalized advice and help planning trips.

Now he charges $150 for a 75-minute consultation and $175 for trip planning. Stroud said he and his wife, who is doing brand deals on social media, made $3,000 side-hustling last month. Previously, the couple were living paycheck to paycheck.

“Things have changed to be able to just afford the normal stuff in suburban middle-class America,” Stroud said. “You have to do extra stuff to do that.”

Some young workers are undertaking digital side hustles while working full time and going to school. The side gigs help with the increasing cost of living and building skills and résumés to get the jobs that they want.

“The majority of our college life was online,” said Mariz Isabella Ash, a 22-year-old resident of Huntington Beach, Calif. “We didn’t really have that time to make connections at the university … and a lot of entry-level jobs are going to people recently laid off from the big companies.”

Ash, who expects to graduate from California State University at Long Beach in spring 2025, has a full-time job in sales at a drug and medical device manufacturer. But she also gets paid to help companies, organizations and individuals with social media and sometimes babysits through the app Bambino Sitters. Ash sees side hustles as “essential” in today’s economy. Even though she works up to 60 hours or more a week, she expects to always have side gigs, even when she’s more established.

Many young workers consider diversifying their income important, especially after watching jobs vanish during the pandemic or the course correction after.

Jess Ramos, an Athens, Ga.-based senior data analyst at Crunchbase, says she has made more money through her digital side hustles than from her six-figure salary so far this year. The self-proclaimed Zillennial, or someone on the cusp of being of Gen Zer and millennial, does everything — including sponsored posts on Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn as well as teaching people how to get a job in data analytics and technical skills on LinkedIn Learning. She also has a shop on Printify, which prints and ships products, where she sells T-shirts for data enthusiasts.

Ramos views side hustles as the chance to have financial freedom, including being able to splurge on luxury items such as a Prada purse, and as a creative outlet. Still, she plans to continue building her corporate career.

“I always want to be growing in title and skill, but I realized it’s okay to also focus my attention elsewhere,” she said. “My [personal] brand is what’s going to be with me my whole life.”

While older generations sometimes view young workers as lazy or idealizing social media fame, many Gen Zers say the reality is the opposite. They say they just understand how to make money on social media, are willing to put in extra work, are faced with tough economic conditions and are bringing their personalities into their work.

For 24-year-old Ang Richard of Boston, she said she makes between a couple hundred and a few thousand extra dollars a month advertising and selling private career coaching on LinkedIn, doing speaking gigs and course facilitation. Most of her side gigs have come from positioning herself as an authoritative voice for Gen Z as the assistant director of career education at Boston University’s Center for Career Development, where she works full time.

She already garnered a Top Voice badge on LinkedIn, signifying she’s a thought leader in her industry. Now she’s looking into growing her following on platforms such as TikTok.

“I want to show my family and others that there are ways to find success, express yourself and break away from archaic professional money mind-sets,” she said.

But some experts say young people should be wary of online side hustles. It takes a lot of time and hard work, and there’s more appetite for some topics and personalities versus others, said Lindsey Cameron, an assistant professor of management at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.

“You get to live an idealized version of yourself. But there are a limited number of advertising dollars to go around. Not everyone will be able to be successful,” Cameron said.

Fischer and other young workers expect Gen Z’s interest in side hustles to continue to grow as companies cut costs and trim benefits.

“There’s a lot of distrust with companies. Loyalty is dead now,” Fischer said.

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• Tired of late messages from your boss? A new bill aims to make it illegal. April 3, 2024 Tired of late messages from your boss? A new bill aims to make it illegal. April 3, 2024
• Gen Z embraces side hustles because ‘loyalty is dead’ March 25, 2024 Gen Z embraces side hustles because ‘loyalty is dead’ March 25, 2024
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The Other Players Who Helped (Almost) Make the World’s Biggest Backdoor Hack

A shadowy figure spent years ingratiating themself to a developer, then injected a backdoor that could have taken over millions of computers.

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On March 29, Microsoft software developer Andres Freund was trying to optimize the performance of his computer when he noticed that one program was using an unexpected amount of processing power. Freund dove in to troubleshoot and “ got suspicious .”

Eventually, Freund found the source of the problem, which he subsequently posted to a security mailing list: He had discovered a backdoor in XZ Utils, a data compression utility used by a wide array of various Linux-based computer applications — a constellation of open-source software that, while often not consumer-facing, undergirds key computing and internet functions like secure communications between machines.

By inadvertently spotting the backdoor, which was buried deep in the code in binary test files, Freund averted a large-scale security catastrophe. Any machine running an operating system that included the backdoored utility and met the specifications laid out in the malicious code would have been vulnerable to compromise, allowing an attacker to potentially take control of the system.

The XZ backdoor was introduced by way of what is known as a software supply chain attack, which the National Counterintelligence and Security Center defines as “deliberate acts directed against the supply chains of software products themselves.” The attacks often employ complex ways of changing the source code of the programs, such as gaining unauthorized access to a developer’s system or through a malicious insider with legitimate access.

The malicious code in XZ Utils was introduced by a user calling themself Jia Tan, employing the handle JiaT75 , according to Ars Technica and Wired . Tan had been a contributor to the XZ project since at least late 2021 and built trust with the community of developers working on it. Eventually, though the exact timeline is unclear , Tan ascended to being co-maintainer of the project, alongside the founder, Lasse Collin, allowing Tan to add code without needing the contributions to be approved. (Neither Tan nor Collin responded to requests for comment.)

The XZ backdoor betrays a sophisticated, meticulous operation. First, whoever led the attack identified a piece of software that would be embedded in a vast array of Linux operating systems. The development of this widely used technical utility was understaffed, with a single, core maintainer, Collin, who later conceded he was unable to maintain XZ, providing the opportunity for another developer to step in. Then, after cultivating Collin’s trust over a period of years, Tan injected a backdoor into the utility. All these moves were underlaid by a technical proficiency that ushered the creation and embedding of the actual backdoor code — a code sophisticated enough that analysis of its precise functionality and capability is still ongoing .

“The care taken to hide the exploits in binary test files as well as the sheer time taken to gain a reputation in the open-source project to later exploit it are abnormally sophisticated,” said Molly, a system administrator at Electronic Frontier Foundation who goes by a mononym. “However, there isn’t any indication yet whether this was state sponsored, a hacking group, a rogue developer, or any combination of the above.”

Tan’s elevation to being a co-maintainer mostly played out on an email group where code developers — in the open-source, collaborative spirit of the Linux family of operating systems — exchange ideas and strategize to build applications.

On one email list, Collin faced a raft of complaints. A group of users, relatively new to the project, had protested that Collin was falling behind and not making updates to the software quickly enough. He should, some of these users said, hand over control of the project; some explicitly called for the addition of another maintainer. Conceding that he could no longer devote enough attention to the project, Collin made Tan a co-maintainer.

The users involved in the complaints seemed to materialize from nowhere — posting their messages from what appear to be recently created Proton Mail accounts, then disappearing. Their entire online presence is related to these brief interactions on the mailing list dedicated to XZ; their only recorded interest is in quickly ushering along updates to the software.

Various U.S. intelligence agencies have recently expressed interest in addressing software supply chain attacks. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency jumped into action after Freund’s discovery, publishing an alert about the XZ backdoor on March 29, the same day Freund publicly posted about it.

Open-Source Players

In the open-source world of Linux programming — and in the development of XZ Utils — collaboration is carried out through email groups and code repositories. Tan posted on the listserv, chatted to Collin, and contributed code changes on the code repository Github, which is owned by Microsoft. GitHub has since disabled access to the XZ repository and disabled Tan’s account. (In February, The Intercept and other digital news firms sued Microsoft and its partner OpenAI for using their journalism without permission or credit.)

Several other figures on the email list participated in efforts — appearing to be diffuse but coinciding in their aims and timing — to install the new co-maintainer, sometimes particularly pushing for Tan.

Later, on a listserv dedicated to Debian, one of the more popular of the Linux family of operating systems, another group of users advocated for the backdoored version of XZ Utils to be included in the operating system’s distribution.

These dedicated groups played discrete roles: In one case, complaining about the lack of progress on XZ Utils and pushing for speedier updates by installing a new co-maintainer; and, in the other case, pushing for updated versions to be quickly and widely distributed.

“I think the multiple green accounts seeming to coordinate on specific goals at key times fits the pattern of using networks of sock accounts for social engineering that we’ve seen all over social media,” said Molly, the EFF system administrator. “It’s very possible that the rogue dev, hacking group, or state sponsor employed this tactic as part of their plan to introduce the back door. Of course, it’s also possible these are just coincidences.”

The pattern seems to fit what’s known in intelligence parlance as “persona management,” the practice of creating and subsequently maintaining multiple fictitious identities. A leaked document from the defense contractor HBGary Federal outlines the meticulousness that may go into maintaining these fictive personas, including creating an elaborate online footprint — something which was decidedly missing from the accounts involved in the XZ timeline.

While these other users employed different emails, in some cases they used providers that give clues as to when their accounts were created. When they used Proton Mail accounts, for instance, the encryption keys associated with these accounts were created on the same day, or mere days before, the users’ first posts to the email group. (Users, however, can also generate new keys, meaning the email addresses may have been older than their current keys.)

One of the earliest of these users on the list used the name Jigar Kumar . Kumar appears on the XZ development mailing list in April 2022, complaining that some features of the tool are confusing. Tan promptly responded to the comment. (Kumar did not respond to a request for comment.)

Kumar repeatedly popped up with subsequent complaints, sometimes building off others’ discontent. After Dennis Ens appeared on the same mailing list, Ens also complained about the lack of response to one of his messages. Collin acknowledged things were piling up and mentioned Tan had been helping him off list; he might soon have “a bigger role with XZ Utils.” (Ens did not respond to a request for comment.)

After another complaint from Kumar calling for a new maintainer, Collin responded: “I haven’t lost interest but my ability to care has been fairly limited mostly due to longterm mental health issues but also due to some other things. Recently I’ve worked off-list a bit with Jia Tan on XZ Utils and perhaps he will have a bigger role in the future, we’ll see.”

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The pressure kept coming. “As I have hinted in earlier emails, Jia Tan may have a bigger role in the project in the future,” Collin responded after Ens suggested he hand off some responsibilities. “He has been helping a lot off-list and is practically a co-maintainer already. :-)”

Ens then went quiet for two years — reemerging around the time the bulk of the malicious backdoor code was installed in the XZ software. Ens kept urging ever quicker updates.

After Collin eventually made Tan a co-maintainer, there was a subsequent push to get XZ Utils — which by now had the backdoor — distributed widely. After first showing up on the XZ GitHub repository in June 2023, another figure calling themselves Hans Jansen went on this March to push for the new version of XZ to be included in Debian Linux. (Jansen did not respond to a request for comment.)

An employee at Red Hat, a software firm owned by IBM, which sponsors and helps maintain Fedora, another popular Linux operating system, described Tan trying to convince him to help add the compromised XZ Utils to Fedora.

These popular Linux operating systems account for millions of computer users — meaning that huge numbers of users would have been open to compromise if Freund, the developer, had not discovered the backdoor.

“While the possibility of socially engineering backdoors in critical software seems like an indictment of open-source projects, it’s not exclusive to open source and could happen anywhere,” said Molly. “In fact, the ability for the engineer to discover this backdoor before it was shipped was only possible due to the open nature of the project.”

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Biden holds record-breaking New York City fundraiser with Barack Obama and Bill Clinton

By Aaron Navarro , Jordan Freiman

Updated on: March 29, 2024 / 6:54 AM EDT / CBS News

President Biden participated in a star-studded fundraiser with former Democratic Presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton on Thursday in New York City in an event expected to raise more than $25 million for the president's re-election campaign.

Thursday's New York City fundraiser at Radio City Music Hall was hosted by actress Mindy Kaling and featured performances by several musical guests and artists, including Queen Latifah, Lizzo, Ben Platt, Cynthia Erivo and Lea Michele. The event was capped off with a nearly hourlong discussion between Mr. Biden, Obama and Clinton moderated by "The Late Show" host Stephen Colbert. 

Obama accompanied Mr. Biden on the Air Force One flight from Washington, D.C., to New York earlier in the day.  

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and first lady Jill Biden also delivered remarks during the event. 

Schumer touted several of Mr. Biden's accomplishments and spoke of the potential for not just the president's re-election, but for Democrats to control all three branches of government with key wins in the 2024 election.

"Re-elect Joe Biden as president, put Hakeem Jeffries as Speaker, keep me as Majority Leader, and the next four years will be better than this. You ain't seen nothing yet," the Senate majority leader said.

The first lady, joined by several other members of the Biden family, recalled that after she agreed to marry Mr. Biden, "He said, 'Jill, I promise you, your life will never change.' Well that, of course, turned out to be wildly untrue."

She also spoke of the large sum raised for her husband's campaign.

"This is the biggest fundraiser the DNC has ever held – the fundraiser to end all fundraisers – and we've raised a record amount," Jill Biden said.

Mr. Biden, Obama and Clinton discussed a wide variety of topics, from the economy to the border to the Jan. 6, 2021 assault on the U.S. Capitol, which Mr. Biden bluntly referred to as an insurrection. 

"I was supposed to make a speech on the economy, and I decided I couldn't remain silent," Mr. Biden said. "So what I did was I made a speech about January the sixth, what was happening. And I said it was an insurrection underway, and it must be dealt with and I plead with the president to stop and do his job, call these people off. He sat there in the dining room off the Oval Office for several hours and watched, didn't do a damn thing. That's why I felt obliged even though I wasn't sworn in yet. I was president-elect."

The fundraiser was interrupted by demonstrators protesting against the war in Gaza multiple times, and one who appeared to be yelling something about nuclear with Russia, throughout the night. One interruption came while Obama was discussing Gaza, to which he replied "You can't just talk and not listen," leading the audience to give him a standing ovation.

"It is also possible for us to have our hearts broken watching innocent people being killed and try to manage through that in a way that ultimately leads to both people being able to live in peace side by side," Obama said. "That is not an easy thing."

"It is important for us to understand that it is possible to have moral clarity and have deeply held beliefs, but still recognize that the world is complicated and it is hard to solve these problems," the former president added.

There were also Pro-Palestinian protests outside the music hall, CBS News New York reported . The New York Police Department told CBS News one person was detained. There was no word on why.

The demonstrators were chanting and screaming their messages, directing their anger toward Mr. Biden and, at times, at police officers.

Mr. Biden reiterated his support for Israel and its right to self defense, but said there were "too many innocent victims" and that more aid needs to get into Gaza. Mr. Biden also expressed support for a two-state solution.

"It's understandable there's such a profound anger, and Hamas is still there, but we must in fact, stop the effort resulting in significant deaths of innocent civilians, particularly children," Mr. Biden said.

The campaign has billed the event as the "most successful political fundraiser in American history." 

During a swing through Texas earlier this month, the Biden campaign raised a combined $7 million from three separate fundraisers. A fundraiser for Mr. Biden in Raleigh, North Carolina, on Tuesday raised $2.3 million. 

Mr. Biden's largest single-day haul prior to Thursday came in the 24 hours after his  State of the Union address earlier in March, when he raised $10 million, according to his campaign.

But Thursday's staggering sum is a new record for the campaign, and it further illustrates the growing cash gap between Mr. Biden and his presumptive general election opponent, former President Donald Trump. 

Trump raised $20 million in the whole month of February and $8.8 million in January. He's also been dogged by legal bills and payments , with his campaign and the political action committees supporting him spending over $10 million in legal fees this year.

Mr. Biden's campaign committees have more than double the cash on hand of Trump's equivalent groups, $155 million for Mr. Biden and $74 million for Trump as of late March.

"Unlike our opponent, every dollar we're raising is going to reach the voters who will decide this election — communicating the President's historic record, his vision for the future and laying plain the stakes of this election," said Biden-Harris campaign co-chair and Hollywood mogul Jeffrey Katzenberg. 

Trump's campaign sent out two fundraising emails Wednesday mentioning Mr. Biden's Thursday fundraiser, with one calling on "one million Trump supporters to donate to beat the "Obama-Clinton cartel" and the other reading, "We can't lose to Obama!"

• Democratic Party

Aaron Navarro is a CBS News digital reporter covering Florida Governor Ron DeSantis' presidential campaign and the 2024 election. He was previously an associate producer for the CBS News political unit in the 2021 and 2022 election cycles.

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$254.1 million

in donations

Various Trump accounts

$107 million

in legal expenses

How Trump Moved Money to Pay $100 Million in Legal Bills

By Molly Cook Escobar ,  Albert Sun and Shane Goldmacher

Since leaving office in 2021, former President Donald J. Trump has spent more than $100 million on lawyers and other costs related to fending off various investigations, indictments and his coming criminal trials, according to a New York Times review of federal records.

The remarkable sum means that Mr. Trump has averaged more than $90,000 a day in legal-related costs for more than three years — none of it paid for with his own money.

Instead, the former president has relied almost entirely on donations made in an attempt to fight the results of the 2020 election.

Now, those accounts are nearly drained, and Mr. Trump faces a choice: begin to pay his own substantial legal fees or find another way to finance them.

November 2020 to Early 2021

Mr. Trump raised a staggering $254 million online from Nov. 4, 2020, the day after the election, to President Biden’s inauguration on Jan. 20, 2021, as he urged supporters to fuel an “election defense fund.”

America PAC

$15.6 million

The New York Times

The contributions came so quickly that on Nov. 9, Mr. Trump formed a new political action committee, Save America, to store all the cash.

Only a fraction of the money, however, went toward recounts and other legal challenges to the election. Some went to Mr. Trump’s lawyers during his second impeachment, related to the Jan. 6 riot.

But Mr. Trump banked much of the cash.

Rest of 2021

Mr. Trump started to use the money to fund his post-presidential political operation and what would eventually become his sprawling legal teams. In February, Trump renamed his 2020 committee to “MAGA PAC.”

$94.9 million

$10.9 million

By the end of 2021, Save America, which continued to bring in new donations, held a substantial portion of Mr. Trump’s fund-raising: $105 million.

Both Save America and MAGA PAC spent significantly in 2022 on legal bills and other related expenses. The House held its public Jan. 6 hearings. The F.B.I. searched Mar-a-Lago for missing classified documents in August. His legal fees rose.

Mr. Trump spent about $27.2 million on legal-related costs for the year.

$84.6 million

$60.0 million

$27.2 million

As Mr. Trump prepared to announce his 2024 run late in 2022, he faced a quandary: His PAC could not directly spend money to elect him as president. So Save America transferred $60 million to a pro-Trump super PAC called MAGA Inc.

Save America began 2023 with $18.3 million. But Mr. Trump’s legal expenses were about to soar. He was first indicted in March 2023 in New York. Three other indictments followed.

Mr. Trump spent close to $60 million on legal and investigation-related costs — which included his lawyers, a document-production company and an expert witness in Trump’s New York civil fraud case.

$104.2 million

$11.8 million

$42.3 million

$59.3 million

Early last year, Mr. Trump made a change to bring more money into Save America, the PAC that was paying his legal expenses. At first, one cent of every dollar he raised online went to Save America; the rest went to his 2024 campaign. But with Save America short of cash to pay lawyers, he increased that to 10 percent.

It was still not enough. By June 2023, Save America had less than $4 million on hand. In an unusual move, Mr. Trump asked his super PAC for a refund of the $60 million he had given just months earlier, so that Save America could continue paying for his legal expenses.

By the end of 2023, more than $42 million had been returned from his super PAC to Save America.

With his first trial looming — in the New York case related to hush-money payments to a porn star in 2016 — Mr. Trump’s legal costs continued to rise. He spent at least $9.7 million in January and February.

$10.0 million

At least $9.7 million

The more than $100 million in legal spending since leaving office does not include spending from Mr. Trump's 2024 campaign, which has not paid for his personal legal bills. The use of donations to pay for his personal lawyers has been allowed under federal rules.

To cover the ongoing legal costs, his super PAC refunded an additional $10 million in January and February. But there is now only $7.75 million left to refund. Save America had less than $4 million at the end of February, when accounting for unpaid debts.

The Trump team has said the Republican National Committee won’t pay his legal bills. But his new shared fund-raising agreement with the party directs a portion of donations to his Save America PAC before the party itself.

Still, the account paying Mr. Trump’s legal bills will most likely be out of money by summer at the current spending pace.

Then, Mr. Trump will have to decide: Whose money will he use to pay his lawyers?

Methodology

Data comes from filings made with the FEC since 2020 for: Trump’s 2020 campaign committee (which was renamed Make America Great Again PAC); Trump’s 2024 campaign committee; the leadership PAC Save America; the Make America Great Again Inc super PAC; the joint fund-raising committees Trump Make America Great Again Committee and Trump Save America Joint Fundraising Committee; the fundraising platform WinRed.

Legal costs were tallied from all expenditures matching the term “legal” and certain expenditures matching the terms “document” and “research,” which were determined to be related to ongoing legal cases and investigations. The figure for 2024 includes legal debts incurred by Save America in 2024, which were outstanding at the end of February.

Yearly donations were calculated online donations reported by WinRed for the 2020 and 2024 Trump campaigns, Trump-aligned leadership committees and Trump-controlled joint fund-raising committees.

An earlier version of this article misstated the subject of House hearings related to Donald Trump in 2022. The House held public hearings on the Jan. 6 riot, not impeachment hearings, in 2022.

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