medical proofreading jobs from home

Medical Proofreading: How To Start & What You Can Earn [2023]

If you’ve just started your proofreading journey and are keen to niche into medical proofreading, you’re in the right place.

As hospitals and healthcare institutions move towards integrating their systems online , there will be more medical reports written and more proofreading required.

This is where you can potentially come in!

Medical proofreading is an extremely specialized niche within the wider proofreading community.

When you provide medical proofreading services, what you’re doing is helping to proofread medical reports by reviewing and editing them for grammar, punctuation, and spelling.

When I first started my journey into freelancing, the first two jobs I tried were writing and proofreading. I can safely say that these two skills are still very much useful in my daily life, helping me bring in a high income.

I am forever grateful for learning about this side hustle as it put me on a journey to achieving financial freedom!

If you want to learn how to start proofreading medical documents, read on to find out how to become one! Here’s what I’ll be going through this article at a glance:

What Is Medical Proofreading ?

Types Of Medical Writing

How to become a medical proofreader, how do i succeed as a medical proofreader, where to find medical proofreading jobs , faqs on medical proofreading, how much can a medical proofreader earn, do you need to be qualified to be a medical proofreader, is proofreading a skill, is proofreading a hard or soft skill, is proofreading good money.

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If you want to know how to become a proofreader online but need some training, the Proofread Anywhere course helps you transition into a full-time proofreader/editor and run it as a well-paid business.

The Proofread Anywhere course begins with proofreading basics and then goes on to share advanced proofreading methods, how and where to find jobs, what rate to set, and common mistakes to avoid.

Caitlin is the lady who runs the course and she has been a proofreader since 2007. She turned her love for proofreading into a full-time job and now helps others do the same.

The Proofread Anywhere course is packed with 40+ lessons in 8 modules, grammar-specific worksheets, and real-life example jobs.

After passing with 90% or higher on the final exam you will receive a Certificate of Completion and access to the Self-Publishing School Preferred Outsourcer Rolodex.

Ps; Caitlin is offering a FREE Proofreading workshop that will help you learn the basic skills and decide on whether freelance proofreading is for you. Perfect if you want to know how to become a proofreader with no experience and if you are looking for proofreading courses online for free.

What Is Medical Proofreading?

Medical proofreading is essentially what trained or experienced proofreaders do when they review and edit medical documents.

Anyone who’s been to the doctor will know how much of a hurry doctors are always in and how terrible their handwriting can be.

In the hurry and busyness, medical documents and medical reports can contain a lot of errors.

Because a typo, especially for medication or treatment, could mean the difference between life or death for a patient, medical proofreaders are extremely important to the field.

A medical proofreading job description might also ask that the proofreader be interested in the medical field and have a firm understanding of medical terminology.

It is important to have at least an interest in the field and then gain experience from there because you’ll need to know things like medical abbreviations, common medications, and so on.

You may also need to be familiar with the medical institution’s house style while proofreading their documents.

In order to be a medical proofreader, you’ll need to be familiar with the different types of medical writing out there.

Here are five types of medical writing you might encounter while doing medical proofreading:

Regulatory Writing – These are documents that are usually prepared to seek approval from regulatory agencies like the US Food and Drug Administration .
Scientific Publications – These can be writing for medical journals, for example, the American Journal of Medicine , and materials for medical conferences.
Health Communications – This can be for patient education in the form of online content, posters, news releases, and so on.
Professional Education – These refer to documents written by medical professionals for pharmaceutical staff or staff in healthcare settings.
Grant Writing – Medical professionals also need to frequently write grant proposals to receive funding for medical and scientific research.

In order to become a medical proofreader, you’ll need to have the following skillsets:

Have at least one year’s experience in proofreading – the more the better
Interest and knowledge of medical terms and medical subject matter. Even better still if you’ve worked in a medical institution previously.
Skilled in proofreading software such as Microsoft Word, Google Documents, and Grammarly .

If you’re just starting out, you might wonder, how do I gain medical proofreading experience or proofreading experience at all?

I started as a proofreader by offering to proofread for friends and then sending potential clients tracked copies of my proofread documents.

Use those as a start to create your first working samples, then pitch to new clients using those samples.

I first worked as a proofreader on top of my 9 to 5 role then, and once I had built up a strong client base, I plunged into more online proofreading jobs.

So if you’re wondering how you can start medical proofreading jobs from home if you have no experience, I’m here to tell you, it’s possible – you just need to take that first step!

Medical proofreading is an extremely lucrative and in-demand proofreading niche.

But because of how niched down it is, you’ll need to build a good base of clients to succeed in the long run.

Here are some tips you can use to succeed as a medical proofreader:

1. Familiarize yourself with the subject matter

The medical field is extremely big and constantly evolving. It might not suffice just to have prior medical knowledge.

Upgrade yourself constantly, read relevant medical materials, journals and documents to keep yourself updated with the terms used and the latest developments.

2. Attend medical networking events or online medical workshops

It might be difficult to gain entry into medical conferences if you’re not a medical professional yourself, but medical networking events and online medical workshops are fair game.

Attending such networking events help you see what medical topics are being discussed, what type of news interest the community.

At the same time, you can introduce yourself as a medical proofreader.

Trust me, you’ll be surprised how many medical professionals don’t know where to find such services and how many of them are in actual need of one!

3. Upskill yourself as a proofreader

There are many experienced proofreaders out there that have honed their techniques over the years, like Caitlin from Proofread Anywhere .

In her Proofread Anywhere course , which has 40 lessons spread across 8 modules , she goes through proofreading basics, advanced methods and common mistakes to avoid.

Honestly, I wish I had these resources right at the start of my proofreading journey because it would have saved me so much time!

There are also plenty of free proofreading workshops if you prefer to keep costs low when you just start out.

But investing in a proofreading course , especially a medical proofreading course, is always worthwhile if you intend to stay in the industry for long.

4. Always check for your client’s house style and preferences

Don’t assume! You might be used to a particular style like the American Medical Association’s (AMA) style book, but check before you start.

Other commonly used style guides include Modern Language Association (MLA) and American Psychological Association (APA) .

5. Offer returning discounts or introductory discounts

The medical community can be quite tight-knit, and if you’ve done good work for one client, chances are they’ll want to introduce you to their contacts.

Offer a referral discount to these loyal customers.

At the same time, you can also offer your new clients an introductory offer – such as helping them proofread a short document for free.

But at the same time, only offer to work for free IF they seem more likely to commit and are just on the fence.

Don’t offer it if you’re quite certain they’re just out to get free services!

6. Always go above and beyond to make your client feel special

Make an effort to find out about their work and why they have engaged you to proofread their work.

Once you have finished proofreading their piece, comment on how much you enjoyed the piece (if you did) or tell them what you liked about it.

Chances are they would have spent a long time working on the very document you’re proofreading, like a research paper.

Hearing compliments and being recognized for their work could help you stand out among past proofreaders they have engaged.

There are many online sites where you can find proofreading jobs and more specifically, medical proofreading jobs, and even medical proofreading jobs with remote options.

Online sites with jobs usually come in two categories:

Proofreading companies
Freelance sites

For proofreading companies with medical proofreading jobs, you can register with Scribblr or Proofreading Services .

Both are large reputable proofreading companies that have a large base of proofreading clients.

They would be able to offer you anything from part-time medical proofreading jobs to remote work as long as you can commit to their minimum requirements and number of hours.

If you want to find medical proofreading jobs with freelance sites, your best bets are Problogger and Upwork .

Both platforms are great for anyone with no experience wishing to start medical proofreading. You can find medical proofreading jobs in the UK, US, and anywhere, really!

Oftentimes, you might also find all-in-one roles, such as proofreading medical transcription jobs, where the client requires you to transcribe a medical recording and proofread it.

Have a look and see which job descriptions appeal to you and apply to them!

I’ve also written a whole series of articles on how to succeed on Upwork , so make sure you read them if you’re new to looking for jobs on Upwork!

How Long Does It Take To Proofread 1000 Words? + Pro Tips!
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Honest Proofread Anywhere Review: Personal Experience [2023]

Not sure how much can a medical proofreader earn? They can earn an average of $37 per hour in the US , or above $76,000 annually for their medical proofreader salary.

This is on the assumption that you’re a salaried employee.

You could potentially earn more than the average medical proofreading salary, especially if you clock more hours, or raise your rates with returning clients.

A quick look at medical writers or proofreaders on Upwork shows that the best ones on their site charge as much as $100 per hour .

Work your way up, and don’t be afraid to charge more or raise your rates, especially if you’ve consistently delivered good work to your existing clients!

If you’re wondering do you need to be qualified to be a medical proofreader, no you do not, though it is beneficial to have professional certification to show your medical knowledge.

Some certifications include those from the International Society for Medical Publication Professionals (ISMPP) .

If you’re an aspiring medical proofreader who wants to get better at proofreading while you gain industry knowledge, taking a proofreading course is always beneficial.

Wondering is proofreading a skill? One hundred percent yes, proofreading is such an important and underrated skill!

As long as there is writing, there will always be a need for a proofreader and an editor.

Proofreaders help to improve the quality of written work by spotting often-overlooked grammar, punctuation and spelling mistakes.

Even the best spell checkers cannot replace proofreaders as it might not be able to pick up correctly-spelt but incorrectly placed words like ‘too’ and ‘two’.

Unsure about is proofreading a hard or soft skill? Proofreading is a hard skill – it requires learned skills such as reviewing, editing, and some writing.

It is most definitely not a soft skill as these refer more to non-technical skills such as interpersonal and problem-solving skills.

Proofreading is a hard skill that can be honed with more practice , upskilling, and experience.

The easiest way to differentiate between hard and soft skills is: hard skills refer to skills you need to do your job well, whereas soft skills refer to personal skills that help you thrive.

Trying to see is proofreading good money? Proofreading is extremely good money – you can make an average of $37 per hour as a salaried proofreader.

If you’re a freelance proofreader, your rate could even go up to $100 per hour , as seen on some freelance platforms like Upwork.

The sky’s the limit as long as you’re able to justify your rate increase to your clients and show how much you can value-add to their work.

As you can see, getting into medical proofreading isn’t as difficult as you might have imagined.

There is a huge demand for medical professionals as healthcare is always in need – and by extension, so will medical writers and proofreaders be needed.

Have faith in your skills when pitching to clients while constantly looking to upgrade your proofreading skills .

Trust me when I say this – it’s really tough at the beginning, but it will get easier over time as you get more proofreading clients!

Did this post help you? Let me know if you still have any other questions on medical proofreading!

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Freelance & Remote Proofreading Jobs: 10 Companies Hiring

Are you looking to launch a new career in proofreading and curious about entry-level jobs ? Or, perhaps, you’re a seasoned freelancer ready for your next gig . Whatever stage of your proofreading career you’re in, it’s an excellent time to dive into the world of remote proofreading jobs .

The demand for precise and polished written content has significantly increased freelance and remote proofreading jobs. Expand your portfolio by working on diverse projects, such as medical journals, business communications, or academic papers. You’ll discover the freedom to engage in work that aligns with your schedule and preferences .

What Are Freelance and Remote Proofreading Jobs?

You’ll do more than scan for typos as a freelance or remote proofreader. You’ll be charged with a comprehensive review of texts to enhance accuracy, readability, and style compliance .

Work on everything from blog posts and novels to technical documents and advertising copy. As a remote proofreader, you aim to ensure each piece of content is polished, precise, and error-free.

If you’re passionate about language and get a thrill when every “i” is dotted and “t” is crossed, start exploring work-from-home proofreading jobs today.

10 Companies Offering Remote and Freelance Proofreading Jobs

Launch your research and job search with this curated list of companies that routinely post online proofreading jobs .

Cella helps people forge meaningful careers by bridging the gap between creatives and companies. This woman-owned company offers consulting, staffing, and managed solutions for marketing , digital creative, and proposal teams .

Explore more remote proofreading jobs hiring now !

2. InStyle.com

InStyle.com offers celebrity news, fashion trends , and shopping and beauty information across various platforms. The online platform has become a significant source of Hollywood news and lifestyle trends.

Hikers and bikers looking for routes and recommendations for on and off-road experiences turn to komoot. The technology-based application is available on both the iPhone and Android platforms.

4. Language Bear

Language Bear provides professional, SEO-optimized content , writing, editing , and translation services for clients worldwide in the casino, sports betting, and gambling industries.

5. MissionWired

MissionWired is an advertising services company that helps its clients “change the world” by developing and delivering innovative digital storytelling. The company is a full-service agency providing digital expertise and communications strategies.

6. Motion Recruitment

Motion Recruitment supports staffing and recruiting challenges by providing contract, contract-to-hire , and direct-hire IT staffing .

7. Sonata Learning

A professional training and coaching company, Sonata Learning helps organizations strengthen staff performance through learning, process optimization, the appropriate use of technology, and knowledge management.

8. Study.com

Study.com features over 200 instructors that deliver courses, all available for GED credit, certificates of completion, or easily transferable to thousands of universities nationwide.

Made by teachers , for teachers, Twinkl is an educational publishing company that provides award-winning teaching, planning, and assessment resources for birth through adulthood.

10. Welocalize

Welocalize helps brands capture business worldwide by reaching, engaging, and growing their international audiences through multilingual content and data transformation.

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Find Online Proofreading Jobs from Home

As you can see, there’s a demand for online proofreaders across many industries . You can build a career blending your interests with the flexibility you need. As you begin your research, consider roles with similar titles, such as copy editor , quality assurance , or content editor .

If you’re on the lookout for the best remote companies to work for and legitimate online jobs , our partner site FlexJobs is here to assist you. With new jobs posted daily in over 50 career categories, including full-time , part-time , temporary , and freelance jobs —there’s something for everyone in the FlexJobs database. Launch your search today!

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Remote Proofreading Jobs and 26 Places to Find Them

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

What is proofreading?

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

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

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

Becoming a proofreader and securing remote jobs

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

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

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

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

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

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

26 places to find remote proofreading jobs

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

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

1. ProofreadingPal

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

Remote job for proofreaders | Proofreading Pals

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

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

4. American Journal Experts

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

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

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6. Polished Paper

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

7. Managed Editing

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

8. Wordvice

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

9. Start your own freelance business

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

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

10. Scribendi

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

11. Scribbr

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

12. Proofreading Services

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

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

14. Writer’s Relief

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

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

16. OneSpace Freelancers

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

Looking to find proofreading services at OneSpace Resources

17. Gramlee

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

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

19. Flexjobs

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

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

21. MediaBistro

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

22. Get Editing Jobs

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

23. Domainite

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

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

24. Freelancer

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

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

25. Lionbridge

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

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

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

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34 Best Proofreading Jobs from Home

Updated on February 24, 2024

Lydia Edward

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The high demand for proofreaders makes this job among the best ways to make money online. You can also work from the comfort of your home or your favorite coffee shop.

You can become a proofreader if you have a good command of English and a keen eye for detail.

But is proofreading all day worth your time? What’s the income potential, and where can you find work?

I’ll cover everything you need to know, including the best places to find proofreading jobs from home, the skills you need, and how to kickstart your career with zero experience.

How Much Do Proofreaders Make?

Your income as a proofreader depends on your experience, qualifications, marketing skills, and relevant proofreading skills.

According to Indeed , proofreaders in the United States earn between $12 and $40 an hour, averaging $22.

You’ll probably be on the lower end of this as a beginner, but with the right strategies, you can increase your income potential to its peak.

Online courses can empower you to improve your skills and market yourself effectively to land more clients.

Caitlin Pyle, the founder of Proofread Anywhere , makes a good example. She earned $43,000 in her first year of proofreading.

The most significant perk of freelancing is you get to set your rates. You can adjust your rate card as you improve and gain more experience.

Taking up as much work as possible is another way to maximize your earnings.

Do You Need Proofreading Training?

Proofreading training isn’t required; you can easily learn on the job.

However, taking online proofreading courses is beneficial if you’re unsure where to start or want to level up to a professional level quickly.

Proofread Anywhere is an excellent place to start. Caitlin Pyle offers two courses depending on the direction you want to take:

General Proofreading: Theory and Practice : This is the best course if you’re a beginner in proofreading. You’ll learn to establish yourself in the field, market yourself, and improve your skills.
Transcript Proofreading: Theory and Practice : Do you want to specialize in legal proofreading? If so, this course is designed for you.

One thing I like about Proofread Anywhere is they offer a free workshop so that you know what to expect as you enroll for the course.

Consider checking out the free workshop to determine if the course is worth your time and meets your needs.

The Best Proofreading Jobs from Home

Here are some of the best proofreading jobs you can do from the comfort of your home. Whether you’re an experienced proofreader or beginning your career, these sites are worth exploring.

Simply sign up on any of the platforms and apply for jobs. Apply for as many jobs as possible to increase your chances of getting one.

You can also maximize your income and achieve your financial goals by stacking several sites.

1. FlexJobs

FlexJobs is a job site that helps you find work-from-home opportunities, including proofreading jobs.

It’s among the best options if you’re looking for long-term contracts, but it also has some part-time opportunities.

Search for keywords like “online proofreading” to get a list of available gigs. However, it’s worth noting that the platform charges a $14.95 monthly fee with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

FlexJobs is better than most free job sites since its team researches job postings to avoid scams. There’s no guarantee you’ll get hired, but at least you’re less likely to get scammed.

2. Fiverr

This freelance platform offers numerous entry-level proofreading jobs perfect for beginners.

There are also plenty of intermediate and expert-level options if you already know what you’re doing. It’s an excellent place to polish your skills and grow as a proofreader.

All you need to do is create a killer profile to appeal to clients and proofreading gigs that convert.

The income potential is low initially, but you can use Fiverr as a stepping stone to higher-paying sites. Use it to get experience, build a reputation, and land long-term clients.

This freelance marketplace platform is quite similar to Fiverr. Like with Fiverr, your profile dramatically affects your chances of landing clients.

Therefore, you must create a good profile and write the best cover letters when you pitch for jobs to stand out among the many freelancers on the platform.

According to Upwork, proofreaders earn between $18 and $35 hourly. The site charges your earnings a 10% freelancer service fee. I like that it’s free to use, so you have nothing to lose before you land contracts.

The only disadvantage is that there are many scams since the platform is free. It’s advisable to only deal with clients who have verified their payment information and have a high hiring percentage.

4. Scribendi

Another place to find proofreading jobs from home is through Scribendi, a freelance platform that connects proofreaders and clients.

Unlike Fiverr and Upwork, Scribendi focuses on proofreading. It also has courses to hone your skills and a forum to discuss ideas with other proofreaders worldwide.

The only problem with Scribendi is you must meet some standard requirements to get accepted to the platform. Some of them include:

A university degree in a relevant field
Native-level English ability
A minimum of three years of experience
Able to edit at least 1000-1500 words per hour

Scribendi doesn’t accept proofreaders from some states, including the following:

Arkansas
Kentucky
Massachusetts
Delaware
Florida

Despite the strict requirements, Scribendi offers a nice opportunity to monetize your proofreading skills.

5. People Per Hour

People Per Hour is worth considering if you’re seeking beginner-level proofreading gigs.

The site is similar to Upwork, except you must apply to join. Once accepted, the platform matches you to jobs that fit your profile description.

Expect $15 to $100 an hour , depending on the length and type of project. You can earn over $100 hourly as you gain more experience and land loyal clients.

Like any other freelance platform, the pay on People Per Hour may be low because you need to lower your rates to outbid the competition.

6. Clickworker

If you have a good command of your native language and some experience proofreading, you might enjoy working on Clickworker .

The first step is signing up and creating a proofreader profile. From there, you must take some tests to work as a proofreader on Clickworker.

The test qualification is advantageous as it eliminates competition, but on the negative, you may fail the test if you have no prior experience in proofreading.

You can take the assessment only once, so you must have something to offer. Payment ranges from $0.02 to $0.1 per word. Your earnings depend on the quality of your work.

7. ProofreadingServices.com

ProofreadingServices is a reputable site that offers part-time and full-time remote proofreading jobs.

According to their website, the pay ranges from $19 to $46 hourly, based on the type of project and turnaround time.

You can also interact with other proofreaders for more insight into improving the quality of your work.

The platform offers a 20-minute test if you want to work with them. Simply visit their website and complete the application. They accept applicants worldwide.

8. Freelancer

Another site to find proofreading jobs from home is Freelancer . It’s a remote work platform similar to Upwork. Sign up and create a proofreader profile to access gigs on the site.

Remember, the better your profile, the higher your chances of attracting clients and landing gigs. Optimize your profile with proofreading-related keywords to make it easier for clients to find you.

Freelancer charges $5 or 10%, whichever is greater, for fixed-price projects and 10% for hourly projects.

The main downside of Freelancer is you may get low rates as an entry-level proofreader. However, the pay increases as you gain more experience.

9. Scribbr

Scribbr has a rigorous application process, which is worth it since it’s among the highest-paying proofreading platforms.

First, you must take a 30-minute language quiz. If you pass the quiz, Scribbr sends you three documents to edit within 1-2 hours.

From there, you’ll attend Scribbr Academy for 2-3 weeks to learn how to edit projects according to Scribbr guidelines. Once you finish the course, you’ll be ready to take on some tasks.

Scribbr focuses on editing dissertations, theses, and essays for students. You can earn up to €145 for a 10,000-word thesis.

Check out if they have any proofreading jobs

10. ProofreadingPal

ProofreadingPal is an excellent side hustle idea if you’re in a US college or university. It’s among the best proofreading websites. You can earn $500 to $3000 monthly .

While the pay is high, ProofreadingPal has stringent requirements. You must be employed by or enrolled as a US university or college student.

You must also have a graduate degree and at least five years of experience as a proofreader. They have an online application on their website. You must also submit your resume and cover letter.

The site approves your application within 5-10 business days. After that, you must pass a timed examination to start as a proofreader.

11. Get Editing Jobs

While the name suggests the platform offers editing gigs alone, you can get proofreading and writing jobs on Get Editing Jobs .

This job board isn’t widely known, but it’s one of the best places to kickstart your proofreading career. Simply search a keyword like “proofreading” to get a list of jobs that align with your skills.

12. LinkedIn

LinkedIn is one of the most famous job boards out there. The platform isn’t only relevant to people looking for corporate jobs. You can also find full-time remote proofreading gigs.

Start by creating your profile and describing your skills. From there, connect with other users and start applying for jobs.

LinkedIn has a feature that lets you get notifications when new jobs in your preferred field are available. You can turn it on to get alerts for new proofreading gigs.

13. Polished Paper

Polished Paper has proofreading opportunities for numerous projects, including:

Essays
Business documents
Screenplay
Resumes
Journal articles
Dissertations

If you consider yourself an exceptional editor, register on the platform, submit your resume, and complete the 35-question test to begin your proofreading career.

14. Gramlee

Gramlee is another excellent place to find online proofreading jobs from home. You’ll earn $0.03 per word for up to 3000 words.

The site only assigns projects over 3000 words to senior editors, so you need to gain more experience to access higher-paying projects.

This is an invite-only platform. Fill out the application form on Gramlee’s profile, and they’ll contact you if you qualify.

15. Scribe Media

Scribe Media helps authors write, publish, and market their books. This might be the best option if you want to proofread non-fiction books.

You can make about $50 hourly if your skills match the platform’s requirements. You’ll work on a project with other professionals, making this a perfect opportunity to improve your skills.

Whether you’re seeking a full-time or part-time gig, Scribe Media is worth exploring.

Reedsy connects freelancers to clients needing different skills like proofreading, web design, and marketing. It allows you to work with bestselling authors and publishers on various projects.

The platform claims that only the best freelancers make it into their community. Therefore, you need to have high-quality skills to join the site.

Simply submit your application and portfolio if you want to join the site. Once the team approves it, you can create your profile and find clients.

17. Wordvice

Wordvice provides freedom and the flexibility to choose projects to work on and dictate your availability. It also offers a steady inflow of projects due to a constantly increasing number of clients.

You’ll need to fill out an application to get started on Wordvice . The company asks about your expected pay rate in the application, so you must know precisely what you want.

You’ll also need to complete a proofreading sample and wait for the team to contact you.

Wordvice’s requirements include:

Native English
At least two years of experience in professional proofreading
Be enrolled in a university or have a graduate degree

18. EditFast

If you’re still looking for work-from-home proofreading jobs, EditFast is an excellent option. It’s a job board that lets you apply for proofreading gigs worldwide.

The first step is submitting your application and completing proofreading tests on the website. Once your application is accepted, you’ll get the go-ahead to create your account.

Many freelancers work on this platform, so you must revamp your resume to stand out. The only downside with EditFast is it takes 40% of your earnings.

Cactus has won numerous awards for women empowerment and a safe working environment. It also ranked 18th in the top 100 companies for remote jobs in 2022.

The platform offers numerous opportunities for proofreaders, both full-time and part-time.

It’s worth noting that you must have a degree in your area of specialization. For instance, you’ll need a medical degree to proofread medical-related projects.

20. Writer’s Relief

Unfortunately, Writer’s Relief only hires proofreaders from the US. If you reside outside the US, consider other freelance platforms like Clickworker or a job board like FlexJobs.

Plus, their hiring rate is 2%, which is very low compared to similar sites. I’d recommend this platform if you’re an experienced proofreader.

You’ll have a better chance on freelance platforms like Upwork if you’re a beginner. Use them to hone your skills to land better-paying jobs on sites like Writer’s Relief.

21. Edit 911

Edit 911 offers high-paying proofreading gigs but is very competitive and has strict requirements.

Here are the qualifications you need to apply:

A PhD in a writing-related field
Experience in book editing or teaching
A published scholar with superb writing skills
Expert in writing styles like APA, MLA, and Turabian

If you meet the requirements, submit your resume and samples to their email and wait for it to be reviewed within 48 hours.

If accepted, you can access high-paying proofreading projects, including academic papers, dissertations, and essays.

22. Craigslist

We all know Craigslist as a famous online marketplace. But did you know you can find proofreading gigs on this platform?

This site is a fantastic way to improve your skills as a beginner and build your portfolio. However, there are many scams and high competition from other proofreaders.

Do your due diligence to avoid scams and ensure you don’t undersell yourself to outbid the competition.

23. MediaBistro

Besides offering proofreading jobs, MediaBristo has online courses to help you improve your skills and income.

Like LinkedIn, the platform has a notification feature that alerts you when new proofreading jobs are available.

Finding opportunities is simple. Search related keywords and filter your results based on your level and availability.

24. Guru.com

Guru is a freelance platform similar to Upwork and Fiverr. It has numerous freelance gigs, including proofreading projects.

The platform is free to join, and you can choose your schedule and rates. It’s great for experienced and new proofreaders alike.

Simply sign up and browse job listings to find something that works for you.

25. Kirkus Media

Kirkus Media provides employment opportunities for proofreaders who want to work with authors and publishers.

The platform has been around for quite some time and is among the leading companies in the editing space.

The only downside is that this platform favors experienced proofreaders more than beginners. Most job listings require prior experience with a press company or a publishing house.

26. Cambridge Proofreading and Editing

Cambridge Proofreading and Editing LLC mainly deals with academic work like theses, essays, and dissertations.

Therefore, you must have a degree in an academic field to work as a proofreader on this platform.

Proofreaders on Cambridge Proofreading and Editing earn about $20-$30 hourly, depending on the project and skills.

27. ProofreadNow

ProofreadNow might be a good option if you have a good command of English and Spanish. You can maximize your earnings by doubling up as a Spanish translator.

You must have at least five years of professional proofreading experience to get accepted to the platform. You must also be ready to complete complex tests as part of the application process.

You must also have a stable internet connection, Adobe Acrobat Professional, and Microsoft Word.

28. LifeTips

LifeTips is a freelance platform that works with clients who need writing services. They also hire editors and proofreaders to review the work written by their freelance writers before publication.

This is a lucrative full-time job opportunity with a salary and full medical benefits. If interested, fill out the application form on their website and submit your resume.

The team will contact you within a week if you meet their expectations.

29. Book Editing Associates

Here’s another platform worth considering if you have prior proofreading experience. Book Editing Associates requires that you have copy-editing skills in addition to proofreading.

Here are the basic requirements:

You must be 100% freelance without a day job
At least five years of proofreading experience
Ability to respond to emails within 3 hours
You must reside in the US

The platform also clearly states they aren’t looking for entry-level proofreaders. Before applying to this job, take time to hone your skills and gain experience on freelance sites.

Other Proofreading Jobs From Home

30. WritingJobz

31. American Journals Experts

32. R3ciprocity

33. Domainite

34. ManagedEditing

What’s the Difference Between Proofreading and Editing?

Editing and proofreading are consistently used interchangeably. However, there are notable differences between the two.

Firstly, editing begins on the first draft and continues as the author works on his project. On the other hand, proofreading is the final writing process for the final draft.

Proofreading focuses on surface-level issues like spelling and grammar errors, while editing focuses on the core features of the document, like consistency of ideas and fact-checking.

Lastly, editing takes longer than proofreading since the former involves research during fact-checking.

What Proofreading Tools Do I Need?

Some helpful proofreading tools include:

Google Docs
Hemingway App
Microsoft Word
Paper Rater

What Proofreading Skills Do I Need?

Here are the skills you need to kickstart your proofreading career:

Good command of a language like English
Expertise in proofreading tools like Grammarly, Microsoft Word, and Google Docs
Flexibility
A keen eye for detail
Expertise in writing styles like MLA, APA, and Chicago
Time management
Good communication skills
Patience
Consistency

How To Become a Proofreader With No Experience

There’s no official certification for becoming a proofreader. However, some sites require a bachelor’s degree.

Don’t be discouraged if you have no educational background. You can become a proofreader without experience .

With perseverance and intentionality, follow the following steps to become a proofreader:

Choose a niche
Understand grammar rules and writing styles
Create a portfolio
Find jobs on freelance platforms like Upwork
Market your proofreading services through social media
Engage with clients fast through emails and proofreading platforms

While an educational background isn’t necessary to succeed as a proofreader, taking an online course like Proofread Anywhere helps you improve your skills and know what to expect.

Proofread Anywhere offers two courses: General Practice and Transcription Practice. It also provides a free workshop to help you determine if you’re passionate about proofreading.

Pros and Cons of Becoming a Proofreader

Here are some upsides and downsides of becoming a proofreader:

Pros:

The job is flexible
You can succeed without experience
No certification or degree is required
Low upfront costs
You can work from home
Meeting deadlines may be stressful
The job is repetitive
You must be up to date with language changes
Not consistent in the beginning
Low earnings in the beginning

Extra Reading – High-Paying Under the Table Jobs

Final Thoughts

There are numerous opportunities if you’re seeking proofreading jobs from home. All you need to do is gauge your skills and find something that aligns with them.

Choosing a platform that aligns with your skills helps you deliver what clients want and avoid stress.

Take care not to undersell your skills, especially as a freelance proofreader. Price your services in line with your skills. And if you want to hone your proofreading skills, join this free workshop to help you kickstart your proofreading career.

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Lydia is a personal finance expert and the founder of Sproutinue, a personal finance site helping you find legit ways to make money, save money, and achieve financial freedom. She has been featured on various major financial publications, including Investopedia, Business Insider, GoBankingRates, and more.

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