15 Top Online Proofreading Jobs You Can Do from Home

The digital era has fueled a surge in demand for flawless content, making proofreading a sought-after skill in 2025. From blog posts to academic papers, businesses, authors, and publishers rely on proofreaders to ensure their texts are free of errors in grammar, spelling, punctuation, and style. The beauty of online proofreading lies in its flexibility most jobs allow you to work remotely, set your own hours, and earn a steady income from the comfort of home.

Whether you’re a student, a stay-at-home parent, or a professional looking for a side hustle, proofreading offers opportunities for all skill levels. Below, we explore 15 top online proofreading jobs and platforms, detailing requirements, pay rates, and how to get started, based on the latest opportunities as of August 2025.

Why Choose Online Proofreading?

Proofreading is an ideal remote career for those with a sharp eye for detail and a passion for language. Here’s why it’s a great choice:

• Flexible Schedule: Work when and where it suits you, perfect for balancing other commitments.
• Low Entry Barriers: Many platforms don’t require formal degrees, just strong language skills and sometimes a test.
• Varied Earnings: Pay ranges from $10–$50 per hour or per project, depending on experience, niche, and turnaround time.
• Growing Demand: The rise of content creation across industries ensures steady work for proofreaders.
• Diverse Opportunities: From books to technical documents, you can specialize in areas that interest you.

Getting Started as a Proofreader

To break into online proofreading, focus on these steps:

1. Sharpen Your Skills: Familiarize yourself with style guides like AP, Chicago, or APA. Online courses, such as those from Proofread Anywhere, can help.
2. Build a Portfolio: Showcase your best work, even if it’s sample edits or volunteer projects.
3. Pass Skills Tests: Many platforms require a test to assess your grammar and editing abilities.
4. Network and Apply: Use job boards, freelance platforms, and LinkedIn to find opportunities.
5. Stay Persistent: Openings fluctuate, so check regularly and apply promptly.

Below is a curated list of 15 reputable platforms and companies offering online proofreading jobs, with insights to help you choose the right fit.

1. ProofreadingServices.com

ProofreadingServices.com connects proofreaders with clients needing academic, business, or creative editing. They hire globally for part-time and full-time roles, making it accessible for beginners and seasoned editors alike.

Requirements: Pass a 20-minute skills test; no degree required.
Pay: $19–$46 per hour, depending on project urgency and complexity.
Why It’s Great: Beginner-friendly with consistent work and a straightforward application process.
How to Start: Visit their website, complete the application, and pass the test to join their team.

2. Upwork

Upwork is a leading freelance marketplace where proofreaders can find projects ranging from blog posts to technical manuals. You bid on jobs, allowing flexibility in choosing clients and rates.

Requirements: No formal qualifications, but a strong profile with samples boosts your chances.
Pay: $20–$50 per hour, with entry-level gigs starting lower and scaling with experience.
Why It’s Great: Offers a wide variety of projects and the freedom to set your own rates.
How to Start: Create a detailed profile, include editing samples, and bid on relevant proofreading jobs.

3. Fiverr

Fiverr lets you create “gigs” to offer proofreading services, attracting clients directly. You can specialize in niches like resumes, eBooks, or website content.

Requirements: No degree needed; a compelling gig description and portfolio are key. Fiverr takes a 20% commission.
Pay: $10–$40 per hour, starting low but increasing with reviews and experience.
Why It’s Great: Perfect for self-starters who enjoy marketing their services and building a client base.
How to Start: Set up a gig with clear pricing, deliver quality work, and earn reviews to boost visibility.

4. Scribbr

Scribbr specializes in academic proofreading, focusing on essays, theses, and dissertations. They hire native English speakers and provide training to ensure high-quality edits.

Requirements: Bachelor’s degree and minimum 10 hours per week availability.
Pay: $21–$27 per hour, depending on project volume.
Why It’s Great: Ideal for those with academic backgrounds who enjoy working with students.
How to Start: Apply online with your resume and pass their language and editing quiz.

5. Scribendi

Scribendi offers freelance proofreading for academic, ESL, and professional documents. They cater to a global client base, ensuring a steady flow of projects.

Requirements: University degree, three years of editing experience, and a Windows PC.
Pay: Around $25 per hour for independent contractors.
Why It’s Great: Reliable work for experienced proofreaders with diverse project types.
How to Start: Submit your resume and pass their rigorous editing test to get started.

6. Polished Paper

Polished Paper provides proofreading services for students, businesses, and ESL writers. They emphasize high-quality edits across various document types.

Requirements: Pass a challenging editing test; no experience required, but strong skills are essential.
Pay: $20–$30 per hour, based on project complexity.
Why It’s Great: Offers diverse projects to help build a robust portfolio.
How to Start: Apply with a resume and excel in their skills assessment to join.

7. Wordvice

Wordvice focuses on academic and admissions editing, particularly for ESL clients. They seek proofreaders with advanced qualifications for specialized work.

Requirements: Advanced degree (master’s or PhD) and editing experience.
Pay: $20–$40 per hour, depending on project scope.
Why It’s Great: High pay for those with expertise in academic writing or research.
How to Start: Apply with your credentials and demonstrate proficiency in academic editing.

8. Cactus Communications

Cactus specializes in scientific and medical editing, hiring globally (except New York). They welcome beginners with editing skills and offer opportunities in technical fields.

Requirements: Editing skills; prior experience preferred but not mandatory.
Pay: $14–$19 per hour, with potential for higher rates with experience.
Why It’s Great: Appeals to those interested in science or technical writing.
How to Start: Submit an application and pass their editing test to join their team.

9. Gramlee

Gramlee offers proofreading for blogs, business documents, and creative content. They seek exceptional editors for flexible, project-based work.

Requirements: No degree required, but high editing standards are expected.
Pay: $15–$25 per hour, depending on the project.
Why It’s Great: Low entry barrier for detail-oriented freelancers seeking contract work.
How to Start: Apply online and showcase your editing precision to secure projects.

10. EditFast

EditFast connects proofreaders with clients for novels, contracts, and textbooks. They take a 40% commission but offer access to high-paying projects.

Requirements: Degree and passing their editing test.
Pay: $20–$35 per hour after commissions, depending on experience.
Why It’s Great: Great for experienced editors looking to build long-term client relationships.
How to Start: Create a profile, pass the test, and attract clients through the platform.

11. Reedsy

Reedsy links proofreaders with authors for book projects, from manuscripts to self-published works. You set your rates, with Reedsy taking a 10% commission.

Requirements: Strong portfolio; no degree required but publishing experience helps.
Pay: $25–$50 per hour, depending on project and expertise.
Why It’s Great: Perfect for book lovers passionate about helping authors polish their work.
How to Start: Sign up, upload editing samples, and pitch directly to authors.

12. Cambridge Proofreading

Based in Chicago, Cambridge Proofreading matches subject-expert editors with academic and business documents. They hire globally for remote roles.

Requirements: Bachelor’s degree and strong editing skills.
Pay: $20–$30 per hour, based on project complexity.
Why It’s Great: High-quality projects for those with specialized knowledge.
How to Start: Apply with your degree and pass their skills test to join.

13. WordsRU

WordsRU serves businesses, academics, and authors with proofreading services. They prefer experienced candidates with advanced qualifications.

Requirements: Master’s degree and two years of editing experience.
Pay: $20–$35 per hour, with flexible remote work.
Why It’s Great: Suited for professionals seeking high-paying, specialized projects.
How to Start: Submit your resume and demonstrate editing expertise to get hired.

14. Clickworker

Clickworker offers micro-task proofreading for short texts like product descriptions or ads. It’s beginner-friendly with no experience required.

Requirements: Complete a brief assessment to prove your skills.
Pay: $10–$20 per hour equivalent, based on task volume.
Why It’s Great: Easy entry point for gaining experience and building confidence.
How to Start: Register, pass assessments, and start accepting proofreading tasks.

15. FlexJobs

FlexJobs curates remote and flexible job listings, including proofreading roles for various industries. It’s a subscription-based platform ($24.95/month) but filters out low-quality gigs.

Requirements: Varies by employer; some roles need experience or a degree, others are entry-level.
Pay: $15–$40 per hour, depending on the client and project.
Why It’s Great: Access to vetted, high-quality remote proofreading jobs from reputable companies.
How to Start: Subscribe to FlexJobs, search for proofreading listings, and apply directly.

Tips for Building a Successful Proofreading Career

• Learn Style Guides: Master AP, Chicago, MLA, or APA to handle diverse projects.
• Take Courses: Platforms like Proofread Anywhere or Udemy offer affordable training.
• Build a Portfolio: Edit sample documents or volunteer for nonprofits to showcase your skills.
• Network: Join online communities like the Editorial Freelancers Association or LinkedIn groups.
• Stay Updated: Monitor job boards and platform updates, as opportunities change frequently.
• Invest in Tools: Use Grammarly, ProWritingAid, or PerfectIt to enhance your efficiency.

Challenges to Anticipate

• Competition: Popular platforms like Upwork and Fiverr have many freelancers, so a strong profile is key.
• Inconsistent Work: Some platforms have fluctuating project availability, requiring proactive applications.
• Skill Tests: Rigorous assessments can be daunting but are essential to prove your abilities.
• Client Expectations: Fast turnarounds and high standards demand time management and precision.

Conclusion

Online proofreading is a versatile and rewarding way to earn money from home, with opportunities for both beginners and experienced editors. Platforms like ProofreadingServices.com and Scribbr offer accessible entry points, while specialized sites like Wordvice and Cactus cater to niche expertise. By sharpening your skills, building a portfolio, and applying consistently, you can tap into the growing demand for proofreaders and create a sustainable remote career. Explore these 15 platforms today, take the necessary tests, and start turning your love for language into a profitable venture.

FAQs About Online Proofreading Jobs

Q1: What qualifications do I need to start an online proofreading job?

Most platforms require strong grammar, spelling, and punctuation skills, often tested through an assessment. While some, like Scribbr and WordsRU, require a bachelor’s or master’s degree, others, such as ProofreadingServices.com, Upwork, and Clickworker, have no formal degree requirements. Familiarity with style guides (e.g., AP, Chicago, APA) and a portfolio of sample edits can boost your chances.

Q2: How much can I earn as an online proofreader?

Earnings vary by platform and experience. Entry-level roles on Clickworker or Fiverr may pay $10–$20 per hour, while specialized platforms like Wordvice or Reedsy offer $20–$50 per hour. Pay depends on project complexity, turnaround time, and your expertise. Some platforms, like Upwork, allow you to set your own rates.

Q3: Do I need prior experience to get started in proofreading?

Not always. Beginner-friendly platforms like ProofreadingServices.com, Gramlee, and Clickworker don’t require experience, just strong skills proven through tests. However, platforms like Scribendi and WordsRU prefer candidates with at least two to three years of editing experience, especially for specialized fields.

Q4: How can I prepare for proofreading skills tests?

Practice with style guides (e.g., Chicago Manual of Style, APA) and online tools like Grammarly or ProWritingAid. Take free grammar quizzes on sites like Purdue OWL or invest in a course like Proofread Anywhere. Review sample documents and practice editing for clarity, consistency, and accuracy to build confidence.

Q5: Are these proofreading jobs truly remote and flexible?

Yes, all 15 platforms listed offer fully remote work. Most allow you to set your own hours, though some, like Scribbr, require a minimum weekly commitment (e.g., 10 hours). Flex-Jobs and Upwork provide the most flexibility, as you can choose projects that fit your schedule.

Q6: How do I find clients on freelance platforms like Upwork and Fiverr?

On Upwork, create a detailed profile with samples and bid on relevant projects. Tailor proposals to each job and start with competitive rates to build reviews. On Fiverr, set up a compelling gig with clear pricing and keywords (e.g., “eBook proofreading”). Deliver high-quality work to earn positive ratings, which attract more clients.