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Earn Money with Transcription Jobs from Home

As a transcription freelancer with Rev, you'll have access to a list of customer audio that needs transcribing. You can claim and work on any jobs you choose, subject to meeting Rev's quality requirements for freelancer work. The audio content, pay, and deadline are all listed upfront so you can decide if the transcription job is a good fit for you and your schedule. Rev provides a web-based transcription editor that you use to capture all audible English speech in an audio file. Customers receive an interactive version of the transcript that can be downloaded into other formats, like PDF, .txt, and MS Word.

You must have strong English language skills and be able to accurately transcribe audio. We ask you to take a grammar quiz and submit a transcription sample prior to being approved to transcribe with Rev. We will provide you with guidelines on how to ensure your transcription sample meets the quality standards expected by customers. Transcriptionists do not need demonstrated prior experience or any special qualifications.

You need a desktop or laptop computer and a reliable internet connection. You can claim freelance transcription jobs and complete them all through Rev's online platform.

Rev accepts Transcription and Caption applicants from the following countries: Australia, Canada, Ireland, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, South Africa, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, United States (excluding California)

It is always free to sign up and transcribe with Rev. We never ask for your payment information.

No. Unfortunately, you must use a desktop or laptop computer to complete and submit a sample transcript using our online transcription editor. If you are approved, you will also need a computer to complete transcription jobs.

Follow the guidelines to ensure you submit an accurate sample transcript. Take as much time as you need. We are unable to accept freelancers who do not meet the quality requirements. Please use US spelling.

Normally within a few days. If you are approved, you can start working immediately.

You'll be paid through PayPal for the work you completed in the prior week. As of now, PayPal is the only available payout option.

Payment is in USD, which can be converted into other currencies through PayPal.

Please refer to this help center article on taxes .

There is no minimum requirement to remain active on Rev's platform. You decide when and how often you transcribe. You can claim transcription jobs at any time of the day. Rev's global customer networks means there is a steady stream of work available to transcribe.

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Unmatched expertise at affordable rates tailored for your needs. Our services empower you to boost your productivity.

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One ot the Largest Online Transcription and Translation Agencies in the World. Founded in 2005.

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Transcription jobs available worldwide

We pay competitive rates for our online transcription jobs

Please note: buying and selling a gotranscript account is illegal, jobs languages, frequently asked questions, what vacancies are available, what are your payment modes, what is the payment rate, when will i be paid, how much do i have to work, do you hire worldwide, do i need to pay any fees, do i have to upload any files myself, do you take care of my taxes, can i have multiple accounts on gotranscript, can i work with multiple languages, can i use my phone for work, do i need any equipment, can i use a foot pedal, what is the application process for english transcribers, which foreign languages are you hiring for, and what is the application process, i created a customer/client account. what should i do, do i have to get all of the questions in the quiz right, i get the 'wrong answers' error, is that right, can i choose multiple answers, why is the quality of the audio test so bad, when and how will i get my test results, what is the minimum accuracy rate needed to pass, if i fail, can i take the test again.

Create astonishing web sites and pages.

Freelance Transcription

Work at your convenience and earn $5 to $20 per audio hour. We provide automated transcripts to save you around 60% of the typing effort.

No obligations, monthly commitments, withdrawal limits.

What is Transcription?

Required skills are listening ability and good comprehension of English

Apply context, identify mistakes and correct the automated transcript

Earn $5 to $20 per audio hour, paid into your verified PayPal account

How much can you earn in a month?

Transcriber guide.

The guide has all details about this job

This job is available to all individuals with a Verified PayPal account

We've been in business since 2008!

$ 4M in payouts

50K+ certified transcribers, globally

Over 9M minutes transcribed

Top 5 reasons to sign up!

Earn $5-$20 per audio hour.

Earning depends upon your skill level and time spent

Automated transcript

Let our AI help you get most of the work done automatically

Work From Home

All you need is a computer and an internet connection

Work at your convenience

No obligations, no monthly commitments or withdrawal limits

Short files

Transcription and review files are only around 6 minutes long. We don't assign files. You can preview and choose files to work on.

Become a Freelancer & Start Earning Anywhere

Join the TranscribeMe professional freelancer community and start working on projects from anywhere, anytime.

Monetize Your Downtime with the Industry’s Highest Pay

We also offer advancement opportunities for our Special Teams that include Medical and Specialty Styles, which pay even higher rates!

Learn More About Freelancing

Flexibility & career growth.

Our freelance jobs allow you to earn money from anywhere you’d like, while paying you competitively and providing career growth opportunities.

Freedom and Flexibility

Work from the comfort of your own home, on the road, or anywhere really – whenever you want and how much you want.

Transcribe short 2-4 minute clips (not long interviews). When one clip is complete our system sends another to transcribe – there is no limit to how many can be processed consecutively.

More About the Work

Grow your skills and career.

We believe in promotion from within. Our transcriptionists enjoy their work and have career advancement opportunities.

Gain insight into various industries and boost your resume for any job market. Develop your skills, and grow into higher-paying projects and positions.

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Our happy freelancers.

“TranscribeMe has allowed me to maintain a flexible schedule...this gives me the freedom to be able to work when I want to.” Rebecca Gallant Tennessee, 3 years with TranscribeMe

“I can work my work around what I need to do for myself which is fantastic...TranscribeMe is the perfect place for me to work.” Suzanne Thomas Florida, 3 years with TranscribeMe

“I’ve loved every second of it. I love to work when I want to work and not work when I don’t feel like working.” Shadrack Ndjate South Africa, 2 years with TranscribeMe

“The community’s really supportive, it feels like kind of an online family and it’s really nice to be a part of.” Nicole Shafer Utah, 4 years with TranscribeMe

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Transcription Jobs From Home

Enjoy the flexibility of working from home. Join a global community of transcribers from United States, United Kingdom, Spain, France, Germany, Canada, Kenya, Philippines, and many more.

• €0.90 Per minute
• €450 Average Monthly Pay
• €3000 Top Monthly Pay

">How does it work?

• Submit your application. Take an assessment test and complete the questionnaire. We'll be in touch as soon as possible.
• Select a transcription. Show your magic and start working on the file that you selected.
• Get paid bi-weekly. Get paid by bank transfer in your currency on a bi-weekly basis.

Hear From Our Transcribers

What do our transcribers – Scribes – say?

Why Should You Join Us?

Custom-made tool

Our transcription software is powered by the web. Our keyboard shortcuts will allow you to proofread even quicker.

Global community

Need advice from other transcribers? Having problems with the platform? We have created a fantastic online community to answer questions, help when you need it and, of course, share some fun.

How to work from home as a freelance transcriber?

1. sign up ..

Fill the details and select the language of your choice.

2. Skill Check.

For us to assess your transcription skills, you will have to proofread the transcript of a sample file. The transcription guidelines are your friend! Make sure to follow them. You will be allowed to check them during the test.

3. We review your application.

If you are a good fit, we will reach out by email.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the job about.

As a self-employed collaborator of Happy Scribe, you will have the possibility to access a wide range of audio files uploaded by our customers. You can preview and choose to work on the jobs that suit you best. Once you start working, your job will be to listen carefully to the audio and proofread the transcription generated by our AI. If you are working with a subtitle file, you will also synchronise the subtitles with the audio and improve the subtitle breaks for optimal readability.

What is the process to become a transcriber?

The process to become a transcriber and subtitler at Happy Scribe starts by taking an assessment test to evaluate if you have the necessary skills to become a collaborator. Learn more about the process here . You can start your application here .

Can I work from anywhere?

Yes! This is a 100% remote, freelance position. All you need is your laptop, a good internet connection and quiet space to work. Learn more about the requirements to become a collaborator here .

Where do your transcribers come from?

Our transcribers and subtitlers come from every part of the world: United States, United Kingdom, Spain, France, Germany, Canada, Kenya, Philippines, and many more. We love our international Scribe Community!

How much will I get paid on average?

A typical transcriber earns around 450 € per month, whereas our most active transcribers earn up to 3,000 € per month. This depends on the language you choose to transcribe, the availability of jobs and how much time you can dedicate to Happy Scribe. Learn more about payments here .

25+ Best Transcription Jobs for Beginners up to $60/hr! (2023)

This page may contain links from our sponsors. Here’s how we make money .

Want to make money with transcription work? The best opportunity is to work as a freelancer. Transcribe Anywhere provides the top training in the industry that will help you earn a full-time or part-time income as a freelance transcriptionist. You’ll go from beginner to professional in 2-4 months and earn a transcription certificate recognized in the industry. Learn more .

Working as a transcriptionist is a great way to make money from home and benefit from a flexible schedule. Whether you’re looking for a full-time job or just some extra money, transcribing can be a good option.

In this article, I will help you find the best transcription jobs . There are a lot of different companies and websites that pay transcriptionists, and hopefully, this list will help you find the right transcription career for you.

I’ve been a big proponent of transcription jobs as a side hustle, and over time, I have researched and written many transcription articles on how to get started. If you need more information before digging into finding the best online transcription jobs, check out:

• Be sure to read the article,  How to Become a Transcriptionist  
• Make sure you have the right transcription equipment
• Look into the best transcription courses

Most online transcription jobs allow you to work as an independent contractor. Typically, you’ll have control over the days and hours you work and how much you work. Some transcription companies have minimums or specific requirements that you’ll need to meet.

We’ll start by looking at the best opportunities. Later in the article, you’ll find companies that provide the best online transcription jobs for beginners .

The Best Transcription Jobs from Home

Before you get started, make sure you have the right transcription equipment .

1. SpeakWrite

• Pay Rates: $0.005 – $0.006 per word
• Payment Method: Direct deposit or check
• Payment Frequency: Twice per month
• Job Requirements: One year of experience, 60+ words per minute, 90% accuracy
• Read our SpeakWrite Review

SpeakWrite is one of the top transcription companies, but you’ll need some previous transcribing experience. They have a well-established customer base that includes legal, government, law enforcement, and private sector clients.

As a transcriptionist for SpeakWrite, you’ll be paid $0.005–$0.006 per word. According to SpeakWrite, average monthly earnings are $300+, with top earners exceeding $3,000 per month. Payments are made twice per month by direct deposit or check.

To work for SpeakWrite, applicants must pass a transcription test with a minimum of 60 words per minute and at least 90% accuracy. You’ll also need at least one year of audio transcription experience, and you must pass a background check.

Once approved, you’ll choose your own shifts, and work will be assigned to you during your shifts. You’ll need to schedule at least 15 working hours per month, which means you’ll have a steady stream of work.

2. Transcript Divas

• Pay Rates: Average of $1.39 per audio minute
• Payment Method: PayPal or direct deposit
• Payment Frequency: Unspecified
• Job Requirements: Transcription experience preferred but not required
• Read our Transcript Divas Review

Transcript Divas offers one of the higher-paying remote transcription jobs, with rates going up to $2.98 per audio minute. They don’t require previous experience, but they have high standards and only accept a percentage of applicants.

If you’re interested in working as a freelancer for Transcript Divas, apply directly on their website. You’ll need to have a resume/CV ready and answer a few questions to complete the application.

3. Speechpad

• Pay Rates: $0.25 – $2.50 per audio minute
• Payment Method: PayPal
• Payment Frequency: Twice per week
• Job Requirements: Pass their typing test
• Read our Speechpad Review

Speechpad is another good transcription company to work for. You can earn $0.25 to $2.50 per audio minute (or $15 to $150 per audio hour). Payments are made twice per week by PayPal.

It’s free to sign up, but you’ll need to pass a transcription and a grammar test before you start working. As a worker, you’ll have a rating for your transcription services, and the rating impacts which jobs are available to you. Increase your rating to open up more opportunities. There are also possibilities to qualify for rush jobs and caption jobs with higher pay.

There’s no minimum that you need to work, and you’ll choose the specific jobs that you want.

4. Averbach Transcription

• Pay Rates: $1.00 – $1.50 per audio minute
• Job Requirements: Pass their test
• Read our Averbach Transcription Review

Averbach Transcription is hiring for transcription jobs. They do not list any requirements for experience, but you’ll need to pass their 20-minute transcription test. 

Their typical rates are $1.00 per audio minute or $1.50 per audio minute for rush orders (same day or overnight). They claim that most experienced transcribers can make $20–$30 per hour of work based on these rates.

You’ll have the flexibility to set your own hours and decline work if it’s not convenient for you.

5. Transcription Outsourcing LLC

• Rate Info: $0.80 – $1.10+ per audio minute
• Payment Method: Direct deposit or PayPal
• Job Requirements: Pass their typing tests
• Read our Transcription Outsourcing LLC Review

Transcription Outsourcing LLC offers positions for employees and general contractors. They have transcribing jobs in various industries, with job openings for law enforcement, medical, legal, financial, and general transcription.

The application process requires you to pass at least one typing test before you can join their team. The test requirements vary depending on the type of transcription services you’ll be providing.

This transcription company offers competitive rates, which vary depending on the industry you’re working in. Some are paid per minute, and others per line. The per-minute rates are currently listed at $0.80 to $1.10 per minute. But they offer higher rates (up to $5 per minute) for rush jobs or when maximum accuracy is needed. A rate of $0.07–$0.10 per line is currently listed for medical transcription work.

To work for Transcription Outsourcing, you must be based in the U.S. The job requirements do not specify that transcription experience is required, but the application does ask about your experience.

6. TranscribeMe

• Rate Info: $15 to $22 per audio hour
• Payment Frequency: Weekly
• Requirements: Pass their typing test
• Read our TranscribeMe Review

TranscribeMe is one of the more popular options for transcription jobs, and getting started is easy. After you fill out the form, you must pass a test. The test is fairly simple, and TranscribeMe does not require previous experience.

While working for TranscribeMe, you’ll be transcribing short audio clips (usually 2-4 minutes long) from various industries. Pay ranges from $15 to $22 per audio hour. The average transcriptionist earns $250 per month, with top earners making up to $2,200 per month. You’ll be paid by PayPal weekly.

7. Daily Transcription

• Rate Info: starting at $0.75 – $0.85 per audio minute
• Payment Method: Check
• Requirements: Type at least 50 words per minute
• Read our Daily Transcription Review

Daily Transcription claims to pay higher rates than other transcription companies, starting at $0.75–$0.85 per audio minute. Their top transcriptionists make $250–$950 per week. Payments for your transcription services are made weekly by check.

As part of the application process for this online transcription job, you must pass a skills assessment test and a transcription test. They do not require transcription experience, but you must be able to type at least 50 words per minute.

Daily Transcription is different than some other companies. You’ll sign up for slots on their schedule, and you’ll be assigned work based on that schedule. Like other companies, they do not guarantee a specific amount of work will be available.

You’ll be transcribing audio files from the entertainment, corporate, and legal industries, as well as some academic institutions. Access to different types of audio-based files and jobs, like legal transcription, opens up better income opportunities.

8. Tigerfish

• Rate Info: $0.03 – $0.04 per line transcribed
• Requirements: Pass their skills test
• Read our Tigerfish Review

Tigerfish has been around for a long time (since 1989), and they’re a well-known company in the industry.

If you work for Tigerfish, your projects will include all types of audio files like interviews, police interrogations, and documentary film footage.

There’s an application process that involves transcribing a 15-minute sample audio file. You’ll also need the free version of Express Scribe software.

Tigerfish pays $0.03 – $0.04 per line transcribed.

9. Casting Words

• Rate Info: $0.085 to over $1 per audio minute
• Requirements: You may need to pass their test
• Read our Casting Words Review

Casting Words hires freelance transcribers from the U.S., Canada, and a long list of other countries. Signing up is easy. Some applicants must take a transcription test, but others may not need to take the test.

Once you’re approved, you’ll see available jobs in the dashboard. You can take as much or as little work as you want.

By working for Casting Words, you’ll be paid $0.085 to over $1 per audio minute. Pay varies based on a few factors, like the type of job, the level you’ve reached, and the grade you receive for the work. The higher the grade for accuracy, the more you’ll be paid.

Payments for your transcription services are made once per week by PayPal.

10. GMR Transcription

• Rate Info: Rates are not disclosed until you are hired
• Payment Frequency: Monthly
• Requirements: Pass their skills assessment test
• Read our GMR Transcription Review

GMR Transcription offers positions for general transcription, as well as for general transcription with a medical background. They claim that the average workers earn $1,000 – $3,000 per month.

No experience is necessary for the general transcription position (but they do have high accuracy standards). You will be transcribing a variety of topics like academic, business, legal, and more.

For the position with a medical background, you’ll transcribe interviews about medical conditions. This position comes with daily, consistent work, but you’ll be expected to complete work regularly.

11. 3Play Media

• Rate Info: $10-$30 per hour
• Requirements: Type at least 75 words per minute
• Read our 3Play Media Review

To work for 3Play Media, you must be located in the U.S., and you must type at least 75 words per minute.

3Play Media pays based on the project, but they suggest the equivalent is about $10 – $30 per hour, depending on your efficiency.

You’ll be able to choose which projects you accept and how much you work.

The transcription companies listed in the next section are all reputable companies that provide online transcription opportunities, but they do not publicly provide the rates that they pay. Details like job qualifications are listed below if they’re publicly available. For more details, contact the company or start the application process.

12. CrowdSurf

CrowdSurf is a legit transcription service company that offers work related to captioning videos for the deaf and second-language viewers. These will be short tasks you can do at your own convenience.

To sign up, you must create a profile and take an assessment. No experience is required, and there’s no mandatory typing speed. Once you’ve been approved and are in their system, you can take any available jobs and claim the audio file whenever you want to work.

CrowdSurf pays by PayPal or direct deposit, and you can get paid for your work instantly. 

Read our CrowdSurf Review .

13. Athreon

Athreon has been hiring transcriptionists since 1988, offering general and medical transcription work (for those based in North America). Non-medical transcription involves police, legal, media, and business transcription.

To qualify, you will either need to be a graduate of a training program or have two years of relevant working experience.

One of the benefits of working for Athreon is that you should get a steadier flow of work that may not be available with some other companies. However, they do require transcriptionists to work five days per week and complete at least 500 lines per day.

Athreon pays weekly by PayPal.

Read our Athreon Review .

Ubiqus hires experienced transcriptionists based in the U.S. Generally, they require 1-5 years of experience, but they will consider current transcription students.

You’ll be paid per word, but Ubiqus does not publicly list their rates. Opportunities are available for legal, medical, and general transcription.

Read our Ubiqus Review .

15. Ubiqus On Demand (Formerly Verbal Ink)

Ubiqus On Demand is a division of Ubiqus and formerly operated as Verbal Ink. They hire beginner transcriptionists, but there’s not a lot of detail about the job on their website. The site does provide instructions for applicants.

Read our Ubiqus On Demand Review .

16. Babbletype

Babbletype hires transcriptionists, but you must be a native English speaker. They pay weekly by PayPal, and freelance transcribers can sign up for the assignments each day. Your work schedule is totally up to you. Babbletype does not provide details about pay rates, but you can apply through their website.

Read our Babbletype Review .

Voxtab offers many different types of transcription services, including legal, medical, academic, business, sermons, videos, podcasts, and more. They don’t provide many details about the opportunity to work for them, but you can apply and submit a resume through their website.

Read our Voxtab Review .

18. AccuTran Global

AccuTran Global is another reputable company that hires transcriptionists. Currently, there’s not a lot of information about the job on their site, but it does say that a new hiring process will be coming soon.

19. Transcriptions ‘N Translations

Transcriptions ‘N Translations provides transcription services focusing on the entertainment industry. Their website does not include much information about working for them, but there’s a form to submit an application.

20. BAM! Transcription  

BAM! Transcription is a California-based company that provides general transcription and serves the entertainment industry. Their website does not provide information about working for them, but there’s a contact form you can use.

21. Alice Darling Secretarial Services

Alice Darling offers audio and video transcription services. They hire transcriptionists as needed. The requirements include typing 75 words per minute and experience with transcription and word processing.

22. TranscriptionServices.com

TranscriptionServices.com is hiring part-time transcriptionists from any country. However, you do need experience. 

Their website says that they offer competitive pay, but rates are not listed. Application instructions are listed on their site. You’ll need a copy of your resume in PDF format, and you’ll need to answer a few questions.

23. Pioneer Transcription

Pioneer Transcription updates its website with details regarding current openings for transcription jobs. At the time of this writing, they are looking for typists who can transcribe video files and insert on-screen timestamps.

They prefer experienced transcriptionists who can begin working immediately. Their website includes a short application form that you can fill out if you’re interested. If they contact you for work opportunities, you’ll need to pass a short typing test before you begin.

24. E-Typist

E-Typist offers flexible work-from-home opportunities. Their website states that applicants with at least three years of legal transcription work are preferred. You’ll need a laptop or desktop computer, a foot pedal, a smartphone, and high-speed internet access.

If you’re ready to apply, the application form is available on the E-Typist website.

25. Cambridge Transcriptions

Cambridge Transcriptions periodically hires typists, and available positions are listed on their website. Currently, they’re looking for legal transcriptionists with at least one year of experience in legal transcription or court reporting. Instructions to apply by email are provided on the website.

26. CyberDictate

CyberDictate hires experienced transcribers who live in the United States. You’ll need a headset, a foot pedal, and transcription software.

Currently, CyberDictate is only looking for legal transcriptionists with at least three years of experience. You must be able to type at least 85 words per minute to qualify, and you must be available during normal business hours.

27. VIQ Solutions

VIQ Solutions is looking for experienced transcriptionists to work as independent contractors. The role offers flexible hours and the ability to work from home. Several smaller companies fall under the VIQ Solutions umbrella, so there are plenty of opportunities here. Open transcription jobs are listed on their website, and you can apply online.

This course is the most complete, all-inclusive, multimedia education system for legal transcription. It covers everything you need to know in order to start working and making money with legal transcription work (including where to find work).

• 14 full-length training modules
• Typing drills for speed and accuracy
• Learn how to find higher-paying work
• Learn how to build and market your business
• Lifetime access to all course material and future updates

The Best Transcription Jobs for Beginners

If you’re just getting started, here are some other transcription companies and websites that are options for beginner transcriptionists.

1. GoTranscript

• Rate Info: Up to $0.60 per audio minute
• Requirements: Pass their transcription test

GoTranscript hires workers from all around the world, and no transcription experience is needed. You must pass a test to start. If you fail the test, you can try again in a few days. There’s no word-per-minute typing speed requirement.

You can earn up to $0.60 per audio minute for audio and video files. Payments for your transcription services are made weekly via PayPal. Average earners make $150 per month, with top earners bringing in $1,215 per month.

• Rate Info: $0.40 – $0.75 per audio minute
• Read our Rev Review

Rev is another one of the better-known transcription service providers. Rev offers transcription for audio files and videos.

To start with Rev, you’ll need to pass their online test . Once you pass the test, you can claim work. Payments vary depending on what you’re doing, but generally, it varies from $0.40 – $0.75 per audio minute.

According to Rev, the average transcriptionist earns $245 per month, with top earners reaching $1,495. Payments are made once per week by PayPal.

3. Quicktate and iDictate

• Rate Info: $0.0025 and $0.005 per word
• Requirements: 3 references and background check

With Quicktate, you can transcribe letters, memos, voicemails, legal notes, medical reports, and other short audio files. All of the audio files with Quicktate will be less than 5 minutes in length. iDictate is for audio files longer than 5 minutes, like lectures, sermons, conference calls, YouTube videos, and more.

Both are owned by the same company. As a transcriber, you can complete one application to work for both Quicktate and iDictate.

For the application, you’ll need three references (can’t be your family members), and you must complete a background check. They don’t accept applicants with felony or misdemeanor convictions. There’s a $20 fee for the background check.

The pay varies between $0.0025 and $0.005 per word, and payments are made by PayPal.

4. Way With Words

• Rate Info: $0.45 – $1.73 per audio minute
• Requirements: Pass their assessment

Way With Words hires transcriptionists from the United States, Canada, United Kindom (and other European Union nations), South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore, and Hong Kong. 

They pay between $0.45 – $1.73 per audio minute based on the turnaround time of the project. So if you take projects that require a fast turnaround time, you can earn more.

You don’t need previous experience to apply, but you must pass their assessment. Once you’ve applied and passed the assessment, you can work as much or as little as you want, whenever it’s convenient for you.

You’ll be paid monthly by PayPal.

• Rate Info: $5 – $25 per audio hour
• Payment Frequency: Withdraw anytime
• Requirements: Pass their test

Scribie is known as one of the lower-paying online transcription companies. By working for them, you can earn $5 – $25 per audio hour. There are also small monthly bonuses available ($5 for every 3 hours completed). You can withdraw earnings to your PayPal account at any time.

You don’t need experience to start, but you must pass a test. With Scribie, you’ll be working on short files, for 10 minutes or less.

Scribie does not assign work to you. You can preview the available transcription jobs and decide which ones you want.

Learn how to get started as a transcriptionist with this free 7-lesson course from Janet Shaughnessy of Transcribe Anywhere.

• Learn the two keys to success as a transcriptionist
• Use your existing typing skills
• Work part-time or full-time
• Work from home or anywhere with an internet connection

Who Can Work as a Transcriptionist?

You must be able to type fast and accurately to have success with an online transcription job. You may already have excellent typing skills, and if so, this could be a great opportunity for you. But thankfully, typing is a skill that can be improved with practice. Just about anyone can get their skills to the level needed with some practice. 

Aside from typing skills, you must be able to work well on your own. The job description doesn’t involve a lot of human interaction, so it’s ideal for people who enjoy and thrive working on their own. 

Some transcription jobs require work experience, but as you can see on this page, there are plenty of entry-level opportunities. Most jobs require no other special qualifications. So if you have some typing skills, you’re probably ready to start making money.

How Much Can I Make as a Transcriptionist?

According to ZipRecruiter , the average salary for a work-from-home transcriptionist in the US is $58,962. That’s not bad for an extremely flexible career with no commute!

However, making a decent wage as a beginner is challenging. There are many companies out there that allow anyone to sign up for this type of work (you may need to pass a test first). However, some of these jobs pay very low wages. Earning a certification can open up more opportunities for you, and later in this article, you’ll find some information about earning a certification and formal training. Also, working freelance transcription jobs rather than relying on open platforms can increase your earning power.

If you want to learn more about how to work as a freelance transcriptionist and earn money from home, General Transcription: Theory & Practice™ from Transcribe Anywhere is the best training available. It covers everything you need to go from beginner to professional in 2-4 months (including how to find the highest-paying work). You’ll also be able to earn a transcription certificate!

Practice Transcription Tests

If you don’t have much experience, you may want to get some practice to improve your skills before going after online transcription jobs. A skills test can help you to check your speed and accuracy to make sure you’re ready. Here’s a look at some of the best transcription tools that are available for practicing:

• Express Scribe Practice Transcription Files – Express Scribe provides several legal and medical audio files you can use for practice.
• GoTranscript – GoTranscript offers a free sample test that you can take. The test will show you any errors that you make.
• TCI Transcription Practice Test – Create a free account with TCI to get access to several test audio files.
• Listen and Write – This site has a huge collection of audio files. You can create a free account and practice transcribing directly on the website.

FAQ Related to Online Transcription Jobs

There’s no definitive industry standard for a minimum typing speed. The requirements for speed and accuracy can vary from one company to another. In general, 70 words per minute is a good goal if you want to start transcribing. Keep in mind that typing is a skill that can be learned relatively quickly with practice. Don’t be turned off if you can’t type 70 words per minute now. You can always increase your speed if you practice.

The answer to this question depends on who you’re asking. For entry-level transcription jobs, start with the companies listed in this article.

Some of the most common options include general transcriptionist, legal transcriptionist, law enforcement transcriptionist, and medical transcriptionist. Many people do a combination of a few different types. Medical transcription jobs are becoming harder to come by.

Your pay will be based on your typing speed. The better your skill level, the more money you can make. Also, earning a certification can help to open up more transcription job opportunities and better-paying jobs and advance your transcription career. Transcribe Anywhere offers certification that’s extremely helpful for increasing your earning potential.

Audio hours is the measurement used for the length of audio you’ll be transcribing. If the audio clip is 30 minutes long, that is one half of an audio hour. Working hours is the measurement of the time that you’re working. For example, if it takes you two hours to transcribe that 30-minute clip, your working hours would be two hours.-Your working hours will always be longer than the audio hours you are transcribing. While most jobs will pay you according to the number of hours you work, many online transcription jobs will pay you based on the number of audio hours you transcribe. The faster you are, the more money you can make. If you’re paid per audio hour, it’s important to track the actual time you’re working so you can calculate the hourly rate for your working hours.

That depends on many factors, including your typing speed. However, the industry standard is 4 hours of typing for every 1 audio hour. That may be higher or lower depending on the details. In addition to your own typing speed, another big factor involves the quality of the audio. If you have a clear recording and the speaker is talking slowly, you may be able to do it much faster. Or if the audio quality is poor or the speaker is talking very fast, it may take more time.

Yes, you can earn a living with transcription services. However, that doesn’t mean anyone attempting it can make a full-time income. To have the best chance of earning an income you should consider certification, which will open up more job opportunities and help you to develop advanced transcription skills. According to ZipRecruiter, the average salary for a work-from-home transcriptionist is $58,962 or $28 per hour. To reach that level, you’ll need to move beyond the low-paying gigs that anyone can sign up for. Specializing can also help to increase your income. For example, the average pay for a legal transcriptionist will be higher than the average industry rate.

Transcribe Anywhere offers comprehensive courses to help you get started with general transcription and legal transcription . These courses provide the best specialized training available and can be completed at your own pace. They also offer a great free mini-course that you won’t want to miss. Transcribe Anywhere also offers transcription certification to its students.

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Marc has been self-employed in internet marketing since 2008. He's built successful businesses in a few different industries including graphic design, photography, and travel. Marc has been featured on sites like Forbes and Business Insider. His writing has been published on Yahoo Finance, MSN, MarketWatch, and many others. You can connect with Marc at LinkedIn .

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