2023 Transcription-jobs for beginners
22 Online Transcription Jobs in 2023 (Beginner-Friendly)
![A person sits at a table while working on a laptop.](https://images.ctfassets.net/pdf29us7flmy/4UaheDSUD2opR8am7v0C8d/b702e6d699c01daacc83c58160415c9f/GettyImages-1153816803.jpg?w=720&q=100&fm=jpg)
If you have good communication and typing skills, you might apply for transcription jobs. This work requires you to listen to audio files and type out scripts to make the media more accessible. Reviewing companies that offer these freelance positions can help you gain experience and earn extra money.
In this article, we discuss 22 companies that offer online transcription jobs, discuss their benefits and offer steps and tips to obtain this type of freelance work.
22 companies that offer transcription jobs
Here are 22 companies that offer transcription jobs:
1. TranscribeMe
TranscribeMe is accessible to beginners without any experience or special equipment, as the platform provides expert training and only requires you to have a reliable internet connection and computer. Average monthly earnings are $250, though top earners make as much as $2,200 per month. Freelancers enjoy flexible schedules and the ability to translate short two- to four-minute clips instead of long interviews.
2. Speechpad
Freelancers who work for Speechpad can pick the jobs they want, meaning they can specialize in a niche or accept a variety of assignments. The platform doesn't require you to work a minimum number of hours per week and allows you to start with no upfront investment. Other benefits include two paychecks every week and access to 24/7 employee support.
3. Rev
The application process for Rev takes less than an hour to complete, meaning transcriptionists can start working as soon as possible. The website requests transcriptions to possess at least a computer, a reliable internet connection and good English skills. Freelancers receive payments weekly and earn an average of $245 per month.
4. CrowdSurf
CrowdSurf provides on-demand transcription and captioning services for its various clients. Its emphasis on creating a thoughtful community of freelance transcriptionists is appealing to those who want to make media accessible to more audiences. Helpful resources include general guidelines, editing tips and a glossary for spelling industry-specific terms.
Related: A Complete Guide To Writing Interview Transcripts
5. CastingWords
Once you're approved as a transcriptionist for CastingWords, you can choose from available audio files and complete them on a flexible schedule. The platform doesn't charge a fee to ensure you keep as much of your money as possible. CastingWords uses a grading scale to score the quality of your work with high-quality work earning as much as three times the base pay amount.
6. Daily Transcription
Transcribers who work for Daily Transcription sign up for a certain time and receive work during that period. The company doesn't guarantee work amounts to freelancers, but you can accept assignment topics ranging from entertainment to academics. Freelancers receive payments weekly and can earn anywhere from $350 to $950 per week.
7. Tigerfish
Tigerfish is a well-established transcription service company with a variety of audio work including police investigations and interviews. Tigerfish has open periods when they hire new transcriptionists but may not always actively recruit. You can apply by reviewing the platform's style guide and providing a sample of your transcribing skills.
8. GoTranscript
GoTranscript offers beginner transcription positions with no word count expectation. Rates are competitive, with freelancers earning up to $0.60 per audio or video minute and averaging $150 per month. Aside from English, GoTranscript offers transcription jobs in languages such as:
Arabic
Chinese
Korean
Finnish
Italian
9. GMR Transcription
GMR Transcription allows freelancers to complete academic, business, legal and podcast transcriptions. offers transcription work. You can work from home and require no experience to get started. GMR Transcription also offers work for certified translators who can set their own rates.
10. Babbletype
Babbletype hires native English speakers for transcription, editing and translation. It offers flexible hours and lets transcribers choose their own tasks. Note that the company currently doesn't accept independent contractors who live in California.
11. Scribie
Scribie hires experienced and beginner transcriptionists. Freelancers receive a $5 monthly bonus for every three hours of work they complete each month. Another perk is the AI technology that automatically generates transcripts, which saves you a significant amount of typing.
12. Ubiquis
Ubiquis hires transcriptionists with all levels of experience. Transcribers who can turn in projects the same or the next day are likely to receive more work. You can take a test to specialize in a certain subject matter and rely on customer relationships and planning managers to effectively complete assignments.
13. 3Play Media
3Play hires English and Spanish transcribers. Requirements include excellent written communication skills, proficiency with grammar and the ability to use references and conduct internet research. You may also apply to be an English voice writer, which requires you to speak audio into free, web-based software.
14. Way With Words
Transcriptionists working for this company can make more by taking on projects that require a quicker turnaround time. Way With Words hires beginners with no experience and pays between $0.45 and $1.73 per audio minute. You may apply as a freelancer or full-time employee.
15. Transcription Hub
Transcription Hub rates freelancers on a Bronze, Silver and Gold level based on completed transcription work. It offers flexible hours and amounts of work, meaning you can work while maintaining a busy schedule. Candidates undergo an evaluation process that determines their ability to produce quality work according to deadlines.
16. Dictate Express
Dictate Express hires transcribers as independent contractors and issues semimonthly payments via direct deposit. Once a candidate receives approval, their minimum production requirement is 45 minutes per day. Approval requires you to pass four tests on the following subjects:
Spelling
Comma use
Confusing words
A sample four-minute audio transcription
17. Pioneer Transcription
Pioneer hires experienced transcriptionists to complete their work in both general and legal transcription. Most assignments entail two-person interviews, but you can find a variety of work on the site. Preference goes to freelancers who already possess a foot pedal to streamline the transcription process.
18. eScribers
The company eScribers works mainly in legal transcription and hires those with experience in the field. The company may also consider hiring those with experience in a different field. Contractors earn weekly paychecks and can qualify for generous bonuses.
19. Transcription for Everyone
Transcription for Everyone is based out of Israel but hires remote transcriptionists. The platform requires candidates to submit a CV and cover letter. A computer, a decent internet connection and noise-canceling headphones are necessary to complete work.
Related: 19 High-Paying Transcription Jobs
20. VIQ Solutions
VIQ Solutions gives freelancers 24/7 access to work, meaning you can accept as many assignments as you'd like. Requirements include a foot pedal and the use of transcription software for certain assignments. Industries that VIQ Solutions specializes in include:
Law
Criminal justice
Insurance
Government
Corporate finance
Media
21. SpeakWrite
SpeakWrite works with clients in the government and law enforcement sector as well as private and legal clients. Transcriptionists choose shift times to take on projects and work at least 15 hours per month, though usually no more than 12 hours per day. You can accept assignments through SpeakWrite's proprietary software.
22. Landmark
Landmark hires remote transcriptionists for research projects. The platform offers flexible hours and tries to match the project to the transcriber's interests. You receive compensation based on the length of the recorded audio file.
How to become a transcriptionist
Here's what a beginner needs to know to get started in an online transcription job:
1. Develop relevant skills
Consider developing these skills to prepare for your transcription
Ability to type fast
Ability to type accurately
Good grammar, spelling and punctuation
Computer proficiency
Attention to detail
Concentration
Time management
Related: 10 Ways To Improve Your Listening Skills (With Examples)
2. Get the right equipment
Online transcription jobs don't require expensive equipment, but you should have a computer with high-speed internet and word processing software. Most companies advise you to purchase transcription software that allows you to slow down the audio so it's easier to hear every word. Transcription software usually includes a headset to improve sound quality and a foot pedal so you can play, forward and rewind the audio without taking your hands off your keyboard.
Related: 16 Jobs That Allow You To Work From Your Home Computer
3. Gain experience
Many transcription companies are willing to hire freelance transcribers with no prior experience, as long as they have the necessary skills. The company might require you to submit a sample transcription or complete a test. General transcription training programs are also available online, which can help you secure your first job.
Related: How To Start Freelancing in 6 Steps
4. Pursue optional certifications
While you can get a transcription job without any formal training or experience, certain higher-paying positions require certification. You might gain certification to be a medical or legal transcriptionist. Certification programs may require you to submit proof of qualifications or complete a test.
Related: How To List Certifications on a Resume (With Examples)
Benefits of being an online transcriptionist
Flexible hours and the ability to work at your own pace are some of the main benefits of an online transcription job. Unless a company specifies certain work times, transcriptionists can set their own hours. Note that some businesses ask transcribers to complete a certain daily word count and meet assignment deadlines. Make sure you discuss any expected hours or volume of work with your prospective employer before you accept a job.
Related: Frequently Asked Questions About Transcriptionist Jobs
Tips for finding legitimate online transcription jobs
Here are some factors to consider when applying for online transcription jobs:
Free application process
Most transcription companies have free application processes. A free application process is especially important when you consider that you might not get the job. If this is the case, you can apply for other positions without spending a lot of money to apply. Note that you may pay a small fee for a background check if you choose to apply for a company that works with sensitive information.
Clear instructions
Companies that hire work-from-home transcriptionists provide information on their website that clearly outlines the steps to apply for a freelance position. Some transcription businesses provide only an email contact or a form for those interested in working with the company. If the steps to apply are too complicated, you might consider applying elsewhere.
Related: 11 Speech-to-Text Apps for Your Transcription Needs
Payment plan
An ideal transcription company is clear about when and how it pays contractors. Most pay you after a period of time based on the projects you've completed. Ensure you choose an employer with a payment schedule that caters to your lifestyle.
Related: How To Find Medical Transcription Jobs From Home
How to succeed as an online transcriptionist
Here are tips for succeeding as an online transcriptionist:
Be accurate. Make sure your transcripts are clean and you've heard every spoken word on your audio file.
Meet your deadlines. When you're starting out as an online transcriber, it might take you longer to finish an assignment than you expect. Allow yourself plenty of time to meet your deadlines.
Advertise online. Once you have some experience, you can create a website online to boost yourself as a transcriber. You can post to social media with links to your website.
Please note that none of the companies mentioned in this article are affiliated with Indeed.
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22 Online Transcription Jobs in 2023 (Beginner-Friendly)
![A person sits at a table while working on a laptop.](https://images.ctfassets.net/pdf29us7flmy/4UaheDSUD2opR8am7v0C8d/b702e6d699c01daacc83c58160415c9f/GettyImages-1153816803.jpg?w=720&q=100&fm=jpg)
If you have good communication and typing skills, you might apply for transcription jobs. This work requires you to listen to audio files and type out scripts to make the media more accessible. Reviewing companies that offer these freelance positions can help you gain experience and earn extra money.
In this article, we discuss 22 companies that offer online transcription jobs, discuss their benefits and offer steps and tips to obtain this type of freelance work.
22 companies that offer transcription jobs
Here are 22 companies that offer transcription jobs:
1. TranscribeMe
TranscribeMe is accessible to beginners without any experience or special equipment, as the platform provides expert training and only requires you to have a reliable internet connection and computer. Average monthly earnings are $250, though top earners make as much as $2,200 per month. Freelancers enjoy flexible schedules and the ability to translate short two- to four-minute clips instead of long interviews.
2. Speechpad
Freelancers who work for Speechpad can pick the jobs they want, meaning they can specialize in a niche or accept a variety of assignments. The platform doesn't require you to work a minimum number of hours per week and allows you to start with no upfront investment. Other benefits include two paychecks every week and access to 24/7 employee support.
3. Rev
The application process for Rev takes less than an hour to complete, meaning transcriptionists can start working as soon as possible. The website requests transcriptions to possess at least a computer, a reliable internet connection and good English skills. Freelancers receive payments weekly and earn an average of $245 per month.
4. CrowdSurf
CrowdSurf provides on-demand transcription and captioning services for its various clients. Its emphasis on creating a thoughtful community of freelance transcriptionists is appealing to those who want to make media accessible to more audiences. Helpful resources include general guidelines, editing tips and a glossary for spelling industry-specific terms.
Related: A Complete Guide To Writing Interview Transcripts
5. CastingWords
Once you're approved as a transcriptionist for CastingWords, you can choose from available audio files and complete them on a flexible schedule. The platform doesn't charge a fee to ensure you keep as much of your money as possible. CastingWords uses a grading scale to score the quality of your work with high-quality work earning as much as three times the base pay amount.
6. Daily Transcription
Transcribers who work for Daily Transcription sign up for a certain time and receive work during that period. The company doesn't guarantee work amounts to freelancers, but you can accept assignment topics ranging from entertainment to academics. Freelancers receive payments weekly and can earn anywhere from $350 to $950 per week.
7. Tigerfish
Tigerfish is a well-established transcription service company with a variety of audio work including police investigations and interviews. Tigerfish has open periods when they hire new transcriptionists but may not always actively recruit. You can apply by reviewing the platform's style guide and providing a sample of your transcribing skills.
8. GoTranscript
GoTranscript offers beginner transcription positions with no word count expectation. Rates are competitive, with freelancers earning up to $0.60 per audio or video minute and averaging $150 per month. Aside from English, GoTranscript offers transcription jobs in languages such as:
Arabic
Chinese
Korean
Finnish
Italian
9. GMR Transcription
GMR Transcription allows freelancers to complete academic, business, legal and podcast transcriptions. offers transcription work. You can work from home and require no experience to get started. GMR Transcription also offers work for certified translators who can set their own rates.
10. Babbletype
Babbletype hires native English speakers for transcription, editing and translation. It offers flexible hours and lets transcribers choose their own tasks. Note that the company currently doesn't accept independent contractors who live in California.
11. Scribie
Scribie hires experienced and beginner transcriptionists. Freelancers receive a $5 monthly bonus for every three hours of work they complete each month. Another perk is the AI technology that automatically generates transcripts, which saves you a significant amount of typing.
12. Ubiquis
Ubiquis hires transcriptionists with all levels of experience. Transcribers who can turn in projects the same or the next day are likely to receive more work. You can take a test to specialize in a certain subject matter and rely on customer relationships and planning managers to effectively complete assignments.
13. 3Play Media
3Play hires English and Spanish transcribers. Requirements include excellent written communication skills, proficiency with grammar and the ability to use references and conduct internet research. You may also apply to be an English voice writer, which requires you to speak audio into free, web-based software.
14. Way With Words
Transcriptionists working for this company can make more by taking on projects that require a quicker turnaround time. Way With Words hires beginners with no experience and pays between $0.45 and $1.73 per audio minute. You may apply as a freelancer or full-time employee.
15. Transcription Hub
Transcription Hub rates freelancers on a Bronze, Silver and Gold level based on completed transcription work. It offers flexible hours and amounts of work, meaning you can work while maintaining a busy schedule. Candidates undergo an evaluation process that determines their ability to produce quality work according to deadlines.
16. Dictate Express
Dictate Express hires transcribers as independent contractors and issues semimonthly payments via direct deposit. Once a candidate receives approval, their minimum production requirement is 45 minutes per day. Approval requires you to pass four tests on the following subjects:
Spelling
Comma use
Confusing words
A sample four-minute audio transcription
17. Pioneer Transcription
Pioneer hires experienced transcriptionists to complete their work in both general and legal transcription. Most assignments entail two-person interviews, but you can find a variety of work on the site. Preference goes to freelancers who already possess a foot pedal to streamline the transcription process.
18. eScribers
The company eScribers works mainly in legal transcription and hires those with experience in the field. The company may also consider hiring those with experience in a different field. Contractors earn weekly paychecks and can qualify for generous bonuses.
19. Transcription for Everyone
Transcription for Everyone is based out of Israel but hires remote transcriptionists. The platform requires candidates to submit a CV and cover letter. A computer, a decent internet connection and noise-canceling headphones are necessary to complete work.
Related: 19 High-Paying Transcription Jobs
20. VIQ Solutions
VIQ Solutions gives freelancers 24/7 access to work, meaning you can accept as many assignments as you'd like. Requirements include a foot pedal and the use of transcription software for certain assignments. Industries that VIQ Solutions specializes in include:
Law
Criminal justice
Insurance
Government
Corporate finance
Media
21. SpeakWrite
SpeakWrite works with clients in the government and law enforcement sector as well as private and legal clients. Transcriptionists choose shift times to take on projects and work at least 15 hours per month, though usually no more than 12 hours per day. You can accept assignments through SpeakWrite's proprietary software.
22. Landmark
Landmark hires remote transcriptionists for research projects. The platform offers flexible hours and tries to match the project to the transcriber's interests. You receive compensation based on the length of the recorded audio file.
How to become a transcriptionist
Here's what a beginner needs to know to get started in an online transcription job:
1. Develop relevant skills
Consider developing these skills to prepare for your transcription
Ability to type fast
Ability to type accurately
Good grammar, spelling and punctuation
Computer proficiency
Attention to detail
Concentration
Time management
Related: 10 Ways To Improve Your Listening Skills (With Examples)
2. Get the right equipment
Online transcription jobs don't require expensive equipment, but you should have a computer with high-speed internet and word processing software. Most companies advise you to purchase transcription software that allows you to slow down the audio so it's easier to hear every word. Transcription software usually includes a headset to improve sound quality and a foot pedal so you can play, forward and rewind the audio without taking your hands off your keyboard.
Related: 16 Jobs That Allow You To Work From Your Home Computer
3. Gain experience
Many transcription companies are willing to hire freelance transcribers with no prior experience, as long as they have the necessary skills. The company might require you to submit a sample transcription or complete a test. General transcription training programs are also available online, which can help you secure your first job.
Related: How To Start Freelancing in 6 Steps
4. Pursue optional certifications
While you can get a transcription job without any formal training or experience, certain higher-paying positions require certification. You might gain certification to be a medical or legal transcriptionist. Certification programs may require you to submit proof of qualifications or complete a test.
Related: How To List Certifications on a Resume (With Examples)
Benefits of being an online transcriptionist
Flexible hours and the ability to work at your own pace are some of the main benefits of an online transcription job. Unless a company specifies certain work times, transcriptionists can set their own hours. Note that some businesses ask transcribers to complete a certain daily word count and meet assignment deadlines. Make sure you discuss any expected hours or volume of work with your prospective employer before you accept a job.
Related: Frequently Asked Questions About Transcriptionist Jobs
Tips for finding legitimate online transcription jobs
Here are some factors to consider when applying for online transcription jobs:
Free application process
Most transcription companies have free application processes. A free application process is especially important when you consider that you might not get the job. If this is the case, you can apply for other positions without spending a lot of money to apply. Note that you may pay a small fee for a background check if you choose to apply for a company that works with sensitive information.
Clear instructions
Companies that hire work-from-home transcriptionists provide information on their website that clearly outlines the steps to apply for a freelance position. Some transcription businesses provide only an email contact or a form for those interested in working with the company. If the steps to apply are too complicated, you might consider applying elsewhere.
Related: 11 Speech-to-Text Apps for Your Transcription Needs
Payment plan
An ideal transcription company is clear about when and how it pays contractors. Most pay you after a period of time based on the projects you've completed. Ensure you choose an employer with a payment schedule that caters to your lifestyle.
Related: How To Find Medical Transcription Jobs From Home
How to succeed as an online transcriptionist
Here are tips for succeeding as an online transcriptionist:
Be accurate. Make sure your transcripts are clean and you've heard every spoken word on your audio file.
Meet your deadlines. When you're starting out as an online transcriber, it might take you longer to finish an assignment than you expect. Allow yourself plenty of time to meet your deadlines.
Advertise online. Once you have some experience, you can create a website online to boost yourself as a transcriber. You can post to social media with links to your website.
Please note that none of the companies mentioned in this article are affiliated with Indeed.
Explore more articles
- Degree vs. Experience: Which Do Employers Prefer? (With Tips for How To Choose)
- FAQ: What Does a Physician Recruiter Do? (Plus Key Skills)
- 15 High Paying Environmental Jobs
- 30 High-Paying Jobs That Provide a Work-Life Balance
- 27 Jobs Within the Fire Service (With Salaries and Duties)
- 26 Part-Time Jobs For Retirees
- 17 Unique Nursing Jobs To Consider (With Salaries and Duties)
- What Can You Do With a DSW Degree? 10 Possible Career Paths
- 25 Jobs for Introverts After Finishing a Business Degree
- 11 Advantages of Being an Accountant
- 10 Higher-Paying Jobs for College Students
- How To Become a Coal Miner in 6 Steps (With Salary)
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