30+ Best Transcription Jobs for Beginners & Pros

Securing a fulfilling and well-paying job isn’t a walk in the park.

Imagine dealing with difficult bosses, unfriendly colleagues, low wages, lack of recognition– and the list goes on.

Fortunately, the internet provides numerous opportunities to earn extra income. Even without any particular skills, you can make money online at your convenience.

Your earnings generally depend on the amount of effort and time you invest.

When it comes to legitimate online earning, transcription jobs offer beginner-friendly options that don’t require technical expertise.

While it’s important to be wary of scam websites that aim to waste your time, there are reputable transcription sites that deliver on their promises.

In fact, many authentic transcription platforms don’t demand prior experience from beginners who want to get started.

What is Transcription?

Transcription involves the conversion of recorded audio or video files into a written or electronic text document.

Basically, transcription jobs entails listening to voice recordings and converting them into written text format.Recordings may be done either manually or automatically using artificial intelligence which makes use of Automated Speech Recognition (ASR) software to convert speech to text.

With an accuracy of over 95%, human produced transcripts have ahigh accuracy rate in comparison to automated transcripts which are prone to errors.

There are several fields in the world of transcription which comprises general, medical and legal industries, primarily serving local, state and federal government agencies and courts, trade associations, meeting planners and non-profit organizations.

Types of transcription

There are four types of transcription: Verbatim, non-verbatim (edited) intelligent verbatim and phonetic transcription.

Verbatim Transcription: This is where the exact verbal word and non-verbal communication from an audio or video file is captured. Verbal pauses such as “ah,” “um,” “ah” “uh,” “okay”, “you know” are included. Literally, every syllable uttered and ambient sound in an audio or video file is transcribed.

Non-verbatim (edited): Also known as “clean copy”, non-verbatim transcription excludes all unnecessary speech or non-verbal communication. Basically, grammatical errors and meaningless sounds are omitted to enhance readability as an official document without changing the message being conveyed.

Intelligent Verbatim: A special form of transcribing where filler words, repetitions, pauses, stutters and stammers, slang words, non-standard or vernacular dialect and irrelevant phrases and sounds are omitted thus the final transcript accurately depicts the essence and meaning of the original content.

Phonetic Transcription: Phonetic transcription is the visual representation of speech sounds by means of symbols. It involves conveying the way spoken words are pronounced using phonetic symbols, including certain words that change in pronunciation over time. The dialect in which a word was spoken is retained in phonetic transcription.

What are the Tools Required for Beginner Transcribers?

While some online sources may portray transcription as an effortless task, in reality, it often demands dedicated effort and consumes a significant amount of time. Undoubtedly, it presents challenges, yet with the appropriate skills and tools, triumph is within reach.

When seeking transcription jobs, it is important to note that every company has its unique set of rules and prerequisites. But the most common ones required by all companies for paid transcriptionists who work from home are:

A desktop computer or laptop in good working condition.
A high-speed internet connection
A high-quality noise-canceling headset
Transcription Software like Express Scribe Pro Software
A foot pedal (optional depending on transcription company or personal preference).

As a beginner transcriber, you will require a good internet-enabled computer, set of a headset, foot pedal, and express scribe pro software and a text expander to speed up your work.

To up your game you may also opt for a course in transcription, which will equip you with advanced skills to even become a certified transcriptionist. As a result, you will generate accurate transcripts thus your earning potential will also increase.

What are the integral skills of a competent transcriber?

For you to be a certified transcriber and produce amazing transcripts, you will be required to hone the following skillset for a career in professional transcription:

Possess ardent listening skills
Have a strong attention to details
Be a fast and accurate typist with good keyboarding skills
Observe proper punctuation, grammar, capitalization and spelling.
Have good research skills
Ability to meet deadlines
Have patience and determination
Have good proofreading and editing skills

List of the Top Transcription Jobs

Are you looking for the best remote transcription jobs for beginners and pros? Don’t get worked up, we’ve got you covered!

After a thorough research, we have created a list of the top beginner-friendly and expert transcription sites for you to explore and we hope that you’ll be able to find the right opportunity to join.

Here we go. Let’s get started!

1. GOTRANSCRIPT

Application Requirements: No experience, Good English skills, Pass grammar and audio test

Payment Rate: $15 – $55 per audio hour

Transcription Fields: General, Medical

Method of payment: PayPal and Payoneer

Payment Frequency: Every weekend, on Friday

Availability: Worldwide

GoTranscript is a top site offering transcription solutions since 2005. They’ve been producing quality transcripts, translations, subtitles, and captions. They provide the transcribing services for many types of managed business – interviews, dissertations, lectures, seminars and webinars.

They accept transcriptionists from all over the world and don’t require prior transcription experience. As far as quality is concerned, human generated transcripts are the best choice. They pay up to $45 per audio hour via PayPal and Payoneer. As a transcriber at GoTranscript, you get to freely choose which projects to work on.

Additionally, all transcribers are trained which ensures that the transcription service guarantees 99% accuracy every time to the satisfaction of clients.

GoTranscript claims to pay transcribers up to $0.60 per audio/video minute of audio transcribed, with the average transcriber earning around $150 per month whereas top earners get $1,215/month.

GoTranscript’s Four-step Transcription Process

Transcription: Files are divided into sections and transcribed by professional transcriptionists.

Review: Sections are edited, and timestamps and speaker tracking are added.

Proofreading: Sections are merged and proofread to ensure that the text is consistent.

Quality Check: The transcript is proofread a second time to ensure over 99% accuracy.

How do you Join GoTranscript?

Create an account by signing up at GoTranscript using your name and Facebook, Google or email account.
Study the GoTranscript guidelines and samples carefully
Apply and take a grammar and formatting test based on the guidelines.
Transcribe an audio file as fast and as accurately as you can,paying attention to the transcription guidelines and submit it for review.
If you are accepted, you’ll get a message from the test page that you are a transcriber and access to the work section. If unfortunately you fail, you have another chance to take the test again.
Get paid every Friday via PayPal or Payoneer.

Notably, for your application to succeed, you have to pass the tests with an accuracy of at least 95%. In the event that you fail, don’t become despondent as you can use the same account to take the test again. They’re always hiring at GoTranscript.

Pros

Flexible work from home
Choose which projects or files to work
Accepts beginners worldwide
Work as much or as little as you like

Cons

No steady flow of assignments which means no steady income.
Low Pay for work done.

2. REV TRANSCRIPTION

Application Requirements: No experience, Strong English Language skills, Pass grammar and audio quiz

Payment Rate: $15 – $55 per audio hour

Transcription Fields: General, medical or legal

Method of payment: PayPal

Payment Frequency: Every Monday for work completed the previous week

Availability: Worldwide

Rev is a speech-to-text company based in San Francisco and Austin. It was founded in 2010. They offer a range of audio and video transcription services, including closed captions, subtitles, and translations.

Rev transcripts are claimed to have a high accuracy rate of over 99% for their services.

Rev transcribers get to work on files comprising academic audio files, focus group meetings, business transcription, and more.

The rates of earning range from $0.24 to 0.90 per audio or video minute transcribed. Video captioners earn from $0.4 to $0.75 per minute of video captioned earning on average $240/month.

They also have a forum where transcribers can share and express their views on how best they can serve the customers.

At Rev you get to choose the type of audio files to transcribe. Payment is done weekly via PayPal for completed work.

The four freelancer positions at Rev
There are four positions available for freelancers depending on their skillset. These Are:

Transcriptionist – Listens to recorded audio and video files and converts them to text document.
Captioner – Transcribe recordings and also adds captions to videos. It is the most demanding but lucrative of all transcription jobs.
Subtitler – Adds subtitles to videos by translating the audio in videos into a language the viewer will understand.
Translator – Translates one language into another.

Once you are approved to be part of the Rev Transcription team, you automatically become a transcriber and begin working on jobs.

Pros

Flexible work from home opportunity
Set your own work schedule
Projects are segmented into smaller parts easing the transcription process.
Choose which files to work on

Cons

Pay below minimum wage
Not enough projects to work on thus daily work is not guaranteed.

3. TRANSCRIBEME

Application Requirements: No experience needed, Be at least 18 years old, Valid PayPal account, computer/laptop with reliable internet connection, pass entrance exam

Payment Rate: $15 – $22 per audio hour

Transcription Fields: General, medical, legal

Method of payment: PayPal

Payment Frequency: Once a week

Availability: Worldwide

TranscribeMe! is another legit site offering online transcription opportunities for beginners working from home. Transcriptionists need not have any prior transcription experience to join the company.

With a good typing speed and a strong command of the English language, you’re about set for paid work at TranscribeMe! files are split into sections ranging from 2 to 4 minutes in length and there is no limit to the number of files you can work on and submit.

You choose the files to work on from the WorkHub, submit the completed transcript and get paid if accepted by the Quality Assurers. General transcribers are paid $15 per audio hour whereas specialty transcription pays at higher rates.

Payments are done weekly via PayPal and you can request a withdrawal once you reach the $10 threshold.

At TranscribeMe!, you make your own schedule, work for however long you need to, and come back to it whenever you have the time.

They also have a social network called Yammer where you can ask questions, connect with the staff members and other transcribers worldwide.

TranscribeMe! Application Process

To apply for work at TranscribeMe!, follow the steps below:

Go to TranscribeMe Exams tab from your chrome browser and complete the application form
You’ll receive a confirmation email after submitting your application.
If you pass the entrance exam, you’ll receive a welcome email with further instructions.
Start working by logging into the WorkHub, select and transcribe a file then submit it

Pros

Transcribe whenever and wherever you are.
Work as much or as little as you like.
Files are shortened into 2-4 minute clips easing the transcription process.
Freedom to choose which files to work on.
Opportunity to join special teams that pay at higher rates

Cons

Low hourly wage for work done.
There’s not enough work to go around.
Some audio files are of poor quality

4. SCRIBIE

Requirements: No experience, 60+ words per minute, 90% accuracy

Payment Rate: $0.005 – $0.006 per word

Transcription Fields: General

Method of payment: PayPal, Direct deposit or check

Payment Frequency: Twice per month

Availability: Worldwide

Scribiehires both experienced and beginner transcriptionists worldwide. You get to work whenever you want and you also get an opportunity to choose which files to work on.

You work on audio or video files including dictations, sermons, podcasts, conferences, meetings, interviews and more. As a transcriber, you will be provided with tools and a comprehensive set of guidelines for transcription.

Scribie’s Manual Transcription Process

At Screbie, the transcription process takes place in four stages as illustrated below.

Scribie.com has a unique feature called Progress Tracking which enables you to track the progress of a transcript from your account at any stage of the transcription process.

Based on the stage of the workflow, a completion percentage is calculated together with the draft transcript.

Working at scribie, be prepared to get the lowest earning rates in the industry. However, it’s a great transcription site for beginners to kick start their transcription careerand gain experience.

Moreover, they pay out a $5 monthlybonus for every 3 audio hours of submittedwork.

You’ll earn around $5 – $25 per audio hour which is lower than minimum wage. Earnings are credited to your Scribie account and accumulate there.

To withdraw, you submit a withdrawal request after which the funds will be sent to your verified PayPal account any time.

The amount you make per audio hour will also depend on your skill level, experience, and how fast you submit finished transcripts.

Scribie has a 2-hour turnaround time (TAT) for each file to be transcribed and submitted for review. There is no restriction on the number of files you can submit per day.

How to Join Scribie.com Transcription

Sign up as a freelance transcriber and receive an application number after confirming your email.
Set up a verified PayPal account using the link sent to you email.
You will be put on the waiting list to take a transcription test.
Choose and transcribe a short file then submit the transcript for certification.
Depending upon the grade of the transcript, you will either be certified as a transcriber and paid for the test file or rejected.
If rejected, you can compare your submitted transcript with the reviewed file to see where you went wrong then take another test and submit it. You can only attempt up to a maximum of 10 tests consecutively after which if rejected, you’ve got to wait for 6 months to re-test again.
If you are certified, log in to your account and select files to transcribe. Files are available on a first-come, first-serve basis and you can select as many as you wish, albeit one at a time.

Pros

Work from home opportunity worldwide.
Preview and select the files to work on.
Projects are segmented into smaller parts easing the transcription process.
$5 monthly bonus

Cons

Low pay which is lower than minimum wage.
Scarcity of projects to work on.
Poor quality audio files

5. Casting Words Transcription

Application Requirement: No experience, Be 18+ years old, reside in any supported country or state, have a verified PayPal account, be legally able to work as an independent freelancer

Payment Rate: $0.085 – $1 per audio minute

Transcription Fields: General

Method of payment: PayPal, Direct deposit or check

Payment Frequency: Twice per month

Availability: Worldwide

Casting Words is a legit and beginner-friendly company from around the world. Founded in 2005 by Nathan McFarland and Rachel Pearson it is a crowd-sourced transcription company with thousands of transcribers, editors and quality control workers.

At Castingwords.com, there are no obligations. As long as you have a computer with stable internet connection, you’ll work as an independent freelance contractor which means that you’re self-employed. You set your own schedule as you work wherever and whenever you like.

Because PayPal is their payment system, to join Casting Words team, you have to reside in any country that uses PayPal to send and receive funds. Transcribers get around $0.085 to $1 per audio minute.

You can request payment as long as you have $1 in your account. The amount you get will also depend on your job category, including grading, editing and transcription. The more you work, the more you’ll earn.

Casting Words Application Process

Create your account by providing basic information and filling out a brief bio.
Read carefully the Quick Start Guide to understand their style basics.
You may or may not be directed to a short audio transcription test. In the latter case, you are sent to your Dashboard. Check your email for a welcome message with further information, a link to their Style Guide and more.
If you take a test, you’ll have 90 minutes to complete it and submit it for review which may take from a few seconds to a week. If accepted, you’re set for paid work; otherwise, you may or may not be able to retake the test.
Read scrupulously the Style Guide in preparation for working on paying assignments.

Side note: At Casting Words, you are assigned a badge depending on what you work on.

They include Language badge, New Transcriber badge, Beginner badge, Working Hard badge, Transcriber badge, Editor Badge and many more.

You will automatically receive the New Transcriber badge on account activation. Your badge levels will increase as you submit good quality work, giving you access to more work thus higher pay rates.

Pros

Great work from home
Work at your own schedule
Work as much or as little as you like
No experience required

Cons

Low pay
Work is not guaranteed
Poor feedback scheme
Unfair grading system

As an entry-level transcriber, Casting Words promises to be a perfect site to get your feet wet in transcription. Everyone needs to start somewhere, right?

6. GMR Transcription

Application Requirement: No experience required, pass a transcription test

Payment Rate: $0.005 – $0.006 per word

Transcription Fields: General, academic, legal, business and Spanish transcription

Method of payment: PayPal, Direct deposit or check

Payment Frequency: Every two weeks

Availability: USA only

GMR Transcription is a reputable transcription company that started operations in 2004, with a mission to provide accurate transcription and translation solutions for writers, students, professors and businesses.

Apart from transcription, they also offer translation, proofreading and editing services. They claim to provide a 99% accuracy guarantee for their services, which are of high-quality and at affordable rates with quick turnaround times.

Transcriptionists at GMR Transcription earn from $1,000 to $3,000 per month. This depends on your skills and the kind of work you do. The pay rates are also based on the turnaround time, number of speakers and quality of audio.

The more experienced you become and the more time you’re willing to put in, the more you will earn. You create your own schedule and pick how much work you take.

Note that GMR Transcription does not hire transcriptionists for medical or legal transcription fields.

How to join GMR Transcription
To be part of GMR Transcription team, you apply through their website, complete and submit a test from the careers tab. If you pass the test, you’re good to start receiving paid projects.
Pros

Remote work from home
Work at your own pace
Rapid response to queries and issues
Flexibility to pick which assignments you take

Cons

Doesn’t hire worldwide
Not always available work
Poor audio quality

7. Transcription HUB

Application Requirement: No experience required, pass a transcription test

Payment Rate: $0.75 per audio minute

Transcription Fields: General, academic audio, religious, medical, podcasts, legal, business, webinars, media etc.

Method of payment: PayPal, credit card, a debit card

Payment Frequency: Every two weeks

Availability: USA only

Transcription HUB follows the intelligent verbatim transcription style for their human transcription services. They also do offer foreign language transcription services for Spanish, French and other languages.

At Transcription HUB, transcribers have the freedom of working from anywhere and anytime.Transcription Hub also offers an Affiliate Program. You get a 10% lifetime affiliate commission on the business generated from the invited clients.

There’s no limit on the number of people you can invite. The more people you invite, the more you earn. Transcribers at Transcription HUB earn between $540 and $1,500 monthly.

The earnings are credited to your Transcription HUB account and will accumulate there and will be credited to your PayPal account between the 1st and 5th of every month.

As a transcriber, you have the chance to pick as many audio files as their pickup limit allows but must be completed within 24 hours.

How to join Transcription HUB

Apply by entering the information as requested on the registration page and click on Create Account to complete the registration process.
Once you are successfully registered, you will be taken to the login page where you’ll be prompted to login using the username and password. You will be taken to the Marketplace screen to pick up an audio/video file for transcription.
You’ll receive an email notification when a file is assigned for evaluation. You will see a display of allocated files, click on the box on the left under Pick. Once you have checked all the files you are going to pick up, click on ‘Pick Job’ button at the bottom.
Download the audios and transcribe the same. After completing the transcription, upload the transcript via the marketplace by logging into your account. On the Dashboard, click on “Under Transcribing” and the“learn more link” to see the screen flow to complete your evaluation.
The test results of the evaluation will be available after about 24-48 hours under Evaluation Results on the Dashboard. You will receive an email to confirm your results.
Once you have successfully passed the test, you will be provided with an NDA and a contract agreement, both of which you will have to sign and return. After both have been signed, you can log into your account on Transcription Hub to start working on live files.

Pros

Great work from home
Work at your own schedule
Work as much or as little as you like.

Cons

Pay is lower than minimum wage
Not enough supply of work
Fake claims and testimonies
Not a worldwide work opportunity

8. Appen Global

Application Requirement: No experience required, pass a transcription test

Payment Rate: $0.005 per word

Transcription Fields: General, academic audio, religious, medical, podcasts, legal, business, webinars, media etc.

Method of payment: PayPal

Payment Frequency: Every two weeks

Availability: Worldwide

Appen Global is a legitimate company with over 20 years of experience in the development of high-quality, human annotated datasets for machine learning and artificial intelligence.

They offer a variety of services including audio transcription, note taking and meeting minutes, audio recording, stenography and court reporting.

Apppen hires general transcriptionists globally to work remotely as independent contractors. The transcription pay rates depend on the project and work projects are paid per task, which ranges from $5-$1000 per project.

What’s the application process?

Apply online by filling out their application form.
Attach your résumé.
Take a transcription test by strictly following their style guide.
If you pass the test, you’ll be invited for an interview before they consider you for paid projects.

Pros

Remote work even for beginners.
Good customer support.
Work as much or as little as you like.
Regular pay

Cons

Inconsistent work availability.
Not much concrete and exact details about the company.
Poor management

9. Speechpad

Application Requirement: No experience required, fluency in English grammar, pass a transcription test, type at least 40 w/minute,

Payment Rate: $0.25-$1.00 per audio minute

Transcription Fields: General, academic, legal, business and Spanish transcription

Method of payment: PayPal

Payment Frequency: Every Friday

Availability: Globally

It is free to join Speechpad as a transcriptionist. All you need is a computer with a reliable internet connection and headphones, you’re good to go.

In addition to transcription work, they offer, captioning, review and translation jobs.

At Speechpad, each transcriber and job has a minimum worker rating requirement. Your rating determines what jobs you are qualified to accept. The higher your rating, the more jobs you’ll be able to do and therefore you’ll also earn more.

You’ll be paid per audio minute for completed work. The price per minute varies depending on the type of job you do, but generally falls within the range of $0.25-$1.00 per audio minute.

Captioning jobs pay from$0.3-$1.00 per minute whereas reviewers earn from $0.20 up to $1.00 per minute.

How to join Speechpad

Pros

Great remote work even for newbies.
Set your own schedule
Work as much or as little as you like.
Get bonuses for highly rated jobs

Cons

Low pay especially for beginners.
Limited number of jobs.
Complaints about their biased rating system.

Speechpad has a good number of positive reviews on Glassdoor and Indeed by some freelancers who have worked for the site.

So, if you’re looking to dip your toes into the world of transcription, Speechpad is undoubtedly an excellent platform to begin with.

10. Quicktate

Application Requirement: Experience required, accurate spelling and punctuation, be honest and reliable,no convictions of felony, pass audio transcription and typing tests.

Payment Rate: $0.025-$0.05 per word

Transcription Fields: General, academic, legal, business and Spanish transcription

Method of payment: PayPal

Payment Frequency: Weekly

Availability: Globally

Quicktate frequently hires transcribers as independent contractors. Their professional transcription services comprise files in the form of letters, memos,general and medical reports, conference calls, field notes, legal notes, insurance etc.

Most audio files, particularly voicemail messages average 2-3 minutes in length while other recordings may be much longer.

As an independent contractor, you work at your own pace and schedule. You work for as few or as many hours as you like, setting your own hours.

At Quicktate, beginner transcribers earn on average $240 per month whereas those with experience can earn $950 or even more.

Note that Quicktate is also affiliated with iDictate, which means that if you regularly submit high quality work, you may also be offered work on iDictate.

Quicktate Application Process

Sign up for an account on by filling out the form.
Agree to abide by their strict confidentiality requirements and code of ethics.
Take a quiz for them to determine if you qualify to receive paid assignments.
If you pass the quiz and typing tests, Quicktate quality reviewers will perform a background check on you which will cost you $20 paid using PayPal or credit card.
When your typist account is successfully created, you will be notified in less than a weeks’ time, ready to start working on paid projects.

Pros

Flexibility of setting your own work schedule.
Freedom to accept or reject work without penalty. Work as much or as little as you like.
Opportunity for advancement

Cons

Instances of poor audio quality without compensation.
Inconsistent availability of projects to work on.
You have to pay for background check.

11. Accutran Global

Application Requirement: Experience required, reside in the US or Canada, 70 words/minute typing speed,

Payment Rate: $0.004 – $0.0055 per word

Transcription Fields: General, medical, legal, corporate, finance, focus groups and press conferences

Method of payment: Direct deposit or check

Payment Frequency: Twice per month

Availability: Only USA and Canada

AccuTran Global is a transcription site which hires US and Canadian residents only. They provide remote work opportunities for writers, transcriptionists, cautioners and editors as independent contractors.

AccutranGlobal pays transcribers at the rate of $0.004 to $0.0055 per word of audio transcribed which implies that you may earn from $48 up to $66 per audio hour you transcribe.

The amount you earn depends on the type of projects you work on. Payment for completed work is made on the 15th of every month via Direct Deposit or check.

Acutran Global Application Process

For you to be considered for work at Accutran Global, apply via their website and download theapplication form.
Fill the form with the required information. You’ll be prompted to visit typingtest.com to complete a typing test to prove if you are able to type 70+ words per minute.
You will also be required to take another test involving punctuation.
Once done with the rest of the form requirements, submit the form with the tests to the provided email address.
The reviewing process will take about a month after which you’ll be notified about the application.

Pros

Remote work
Work at your own schedule.
Freedom to choose which projects you work on.

Cons

Does not accept applicants worldwide.
Not many tasks available.
Poor feedback scheme

12. Tigerfish Transcribing

Application Requirement: No experience required, reside in the US or Canada, Express Scribe software, 65+ words/minute typing speed, windows-based computer, be 18+ years.

Payment Rate: $0.005 per word

Transcription Fields: General, medical, health, legal, corporate, documentaries, finance, focus groups and press conferences

Method of payment: PayPal

Payment Frequency: Every two weeks

Availability: USA

TigerFish has been in the transcription business for quite a long time (since 1989). They only hire US citizens who are 18+ years.

The application process is rather fastidious and inquiries are accepted through email only.

As a work-at-home individual, you’ll enjoy a flexible and remote working schedule. For you to qualify to work with Tigerfish, you must be a US citizen or legal resident of the country.

Unfortunately, TigerFish does not disclose their pay rates; however, after scouring the web for reviews by former and current workers, they average around$10 per hour.

The faster you work and submit quality transcripts, the more you’re bound to earn with Tigerfish. Transcribers receive their payment via PayPal every fortnight.

Tigerfish Application Process

Download their Transcription Style Guide and go through it thoroughly.
Take a transcription test by first downloading an audio file then transcribing it using the style guide. The audio files are three 5-minute segments which include a focus group, an interview and a presentation. Each has its own transcription specifications which you have to strictly observe.
You’ll also be required to send a brief note that describes you as a writer, what you like to read, your educational background and experience.
After filling the application form and transcribing the files, submit it via email for review and wait for a reply in about three weeks.
If you passed the application, you’ll be contacted ready to start working on transcription projects.

Pros

Good entry-level transcription work.
Work at your own schedule as an independent contractor.
Freedom to choose which projects you work on.
Advancement opportunity for long serving members

Cons

Does not accept applicants worldwide.
Poor feedback scheme.
Costly Start Stop Play transcription software.

13. Crowdsurf

Application Requirement: Pass tests, Maintain a 3.5 QC score, desktop computer, headphones, foot pedal.

Payment Rate: $0.005 per word

Transcription Fields: General, medical, health, legal, corporate, documentaries, finance, focus groups and press conferences

Method of payment: Direct bank transfer, PayPal, WorkMarket Visa.

Payment Frequency: Withdraw as long as money is in account

Availability: Wordwide

CrowdSurf has a team of freelance transcriptionists who create video captions and short transcription tasks. Croudsurf uses Work Market to hire and pay all freelancers. Work Market is a gig economy platform providing tasks to earn from.

Once your Work Market account is created, you now become a new transcriber, review the guidelines and take a brief assessment to join the CroudsurfWork platform ready to work on paid assignments if you pass.

Each transcription job will pay you per audio minute. As a beginner transcriber, you can expect to earn around $2 to $3 per audio hour you transcribe.

CrowdSurf Application Process

On the application dashboard, click the “Apply” button.
Once your application is approved, you will be notified via email.
Check your application status by logging into the member dashboard.
If accepted, ensure that you submit all the necessary requirements before the deadline.
After submitting the requested deliverables, CrowdSurf will review your work.
If everything is satisfactory, you will receive the promised compensation.

Pros

Convenient payment methods.
No payout threshold
Work at your own schedule or pace.

Cons

Low payment rate
Limited tasks to work on

14. SpeakWrite

Application Requirement: Desktop computer, 60WPM, headphones, foot pedal.

Payment Rate: $.005 to $.006 per word

Transcription Fields: General, medical, health, legal, corporate, documentaries, finance, focus groups and press conferences

Method of payment: Direct bank transfer, PayPal, WorkMarket Visa.

Payment Frequency: Withdraw as long as money is in account

Availability: US and Canada Only

Speak Write accepts legal US or Canada residents only, Speak Write accepts applicants with 1+ years of legal and general work experience.

You should type about 60WPM with 90% accuracy, be proficient in Microsoft Word and be available for 4 hours each week.

You get to set your own work schedule, working as much or as little as you like. They claim to pay transcriptionists an average of $450 while top earners make $3,400.

SpeakWrite Application Process

Read the job requirements then click the orange “apply” button and enter your contact information.
Log in using the username and password you established in step 1. Complete a short exercise to validate your typing speed and accuracy.
Sign a Confidentiality Agreement and provide more detailed information about your work history and availability.
Once your work history has been approved, you will be given access to training videos and quizzes.
Finally, download the software and complete a few training jobs before accepting live jobs.
Your Your completed transcription jobs will then be evaluated and you’ll now start working on paid tasks.

Pros

Flexibility and remote work opportunities
Set your own hours
Less competition for transcription work.

Cons

Only available for applicants in Canada or US.
Repetitive Nature of Work
Available on Windows PCs only.

15. Transcript Divas

Application Requirement: Experience, Desktop computer, 60WPM, headphones, foot pedal.

Payment Rate: $1.39 per audio minute

Transcription Fields: General, medical, legal, financial

Method of payment: PayPal or direct deposit

Payment Frequency: Vague

Availability: US and Canada Only

Transcription Divas is a reputable transcription service provider which hires experienced US transcribers only.

To become a transcriptionist with Transcription Divas, applicants typically need to possess excellent listening skills and a high level of accuracy in transcribing audio files.

Prospective transcriptionists may be asked to submit a resume, complete a transcription test, and undergo an evaluation process to assess their suitability for the role.

Transcription Divas is among the high-paying remote transcription jobs. Expect to earn up to $2.98 per audio minute.

Pros

Competitive payment rates
Diverse transcription fields
Flexible working hours

Cons

High application standards
Uncertain work volumes at times
Only available for applicants in the US.

16. Transcription Outsourcing LLC

Application Requirement: Pass typing tests, Desktop computer, 60WPM, headphones

Payment Rate: $0.70 – $1.10 per audio minute

Transcription Fields: General, medical, legal, financial

Method of payment: PayPal or direct deposit

Payment Frequency: Every 2 weeks

Availability: US Resident

Transcription Outsourcing LLC is a reputable company that serves a wide range of industries, including but not limited to legal, medical, academic, market research, corporate, and media.

Each industry has unique transcription needs, and Transcription Outsourcing understands the importance of tailoring its services to meet those specific requirements.

Whether it’s transcribing legal proceedings, medical dictations, focus group discussions, academic lectures, or corporate meetings, the company has the expertise to handle diverse transcription projects.

Transcription Outsourcing provides affordable pricing options tailored to different industries.

An audio minute transcription rate ranges from $0.80 to $1.10. For medical transcription work, the listed rate is currently $0.07 to $0.10 per line.

Pros

Above-average pay.
Diverse transcription fields
Bonus incentive program

Cons

Must be based in the U.S.
Many style guides

17. Daily Transcription

Application Requirement: Express Scribe, Foot Pedal, Headphones, 50 wpm, 18+ years of age

Payment Rate: $0.75 – $1.10 per audio minute

Transcription Fields: General, medical, legal, financial

Method of payment: Check

Payment Frequency: Weekly

Availability: Reside in US, Canada, UK or Australia, Resident

Daily Transcription is a professional transcription service that converts audio and video recordings into accurate written documents. The company has over 19 years of expertise in the field.

Their competitive payment rates starts from $0.75 to $0.85 per audio minute. You have the potential to earn between $250 and $950 per weekly via check.

Pros

Competitive pay rate
Good quality audio files
Flexible remote work

Cons

Must be based in the U.S, Canada, UK or Australia.
Erratic supply of work

18. 3Play Media

Application Requirement: US based, 75 WPM, PC or Mac, Pass Background Check, Pass Skill Tests, be 18+ years old, internet & English Grammar proficiency.

Payment Rate: $10 – $30 per audio hour

Transcription Fields: General, medical, legal, financial

Method of payment: Direct Deposit or check

Payment Frequency: Monthly

Availability: Reside in US.

3Play Media is a leading provider of video accessibility solutions that specializes in closed captioning, transcription, and audio description services.

They require candidates to be located within the United States and have a typing speed of at least 75 words per minute.

As for compensation, 3Play Media offers payment based on the project, with an estimated equivalent of $10 to $30 per hour for quality work submitted.

Pros

Work as much or as little as you want.
Flexible remote work

Cons

Must be based in the U.S.
Type at least 75 words per minute

19. Pioneer Transcription

Application Requirement: Infinity Foot Pedal, PC or Mac, Pass Skill Tests, be 18+ years old, Internet & English Grammar proficiency.

Payment Rate: $1.00 per audio minute

Transcription Fields: General, medical, legal, Spanish

Method of payment: Direct Deposit or check

Payment Frequency: Weekly

Availability: Worldwide

To apply for work at Pioneer Transcription, you are required to complete an online application form, paying careful attention to detail and providing references if available.

Proficiency in the English language, a keen eye for detail, and prior experience in transcription work are also essential qualifications.

Once accepted as a subcontractor, you’ll have the flexibility to log into the system at your convenience and select transcription jobs that align with your schedule.

The majority of your work will involve handling video files and accurately inserting on-screen timestamps.

You can earn about $1.00 per audio minute.

Pros

Good customer service
Flexible work schedule

Cons

Strict hiring process
No guarantee of daily tasks

20. Ubiqus

Application Requirement: 2-5 years of experience, PC or Mac, Pass Skill Tests, Internet & English Grammar proficiency.

Payment Rate: $14 per audio hour

Transcription Fields: General, Medical, Legal, Finance, Lifestyle, Aeronautic, Luxury, Automobile, High-Tech & Media

Method of payment: Direct Deposit or check

Payment Frequency: Every 2 weeks

Availability: US Resident (except California)

Ubiqus has been in the transcription industry for more than 60 years. They offer a wide range of work opportunities to writers, transcriptionists, translators, interpreters and hearing reporters from around the world.

Work from all types of digital audio files, as well as physical media such as cassettes, video recordings, and hard copy documents.

Experienced transcribers are required to have at least two years of transcription experience in law, medicine and corporate firms. You will be paid about $14 per audio hour.

Pros

Work from home
Good pay rate
Set own working schedule

Cons

Rigorous hiring process
US based workers only

21. Way With Words Jobs

Application Requirement: PC or Mac, Pass proficiency Test, Internet & English Grammar proficiency.

Payment Rate: $0.45 and $1.73 per audio minute

Transcription Fields: Court, Legal

Method of payment: PayPal

Payment Frequency: Monthly

Availability: US, UK, EU, Canada, Australia, SA, NZ, Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong.

Way With Words is an established international audio-to-text services and solutions company. Since its launch in 2002, Way With Words has been providing English language transcription solutions to clients worldwide.

While previous transcription experience is required, you must be a highly proficient English first language speaker.

You should also reside in South Africa, the United Kingdom, countries in the European Union, the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore, or Hong Kong.

Join as a freelancer or work full-time and earn between $0.45 and $1.73 per audio minute, depending on the project’s turnaround time.

Pros

No experience is necessary
Competitive pay rate
Flexible remote work

Cons

Selective hiring process
No steady flow of work

22. We Scribe It

Founded in 2008, We Scribe It usually hires US residents only with previous experience in general, legal, and medical transcription.

You must type 55 words per minute and have a year of transcription experience, be detail-oriented, follow instructions, and know how to format formal documents.

Transcriptionists are paid at the rate of $0.005 per word for general and legal work while medical transcribers earn $0.0075 per word.

To apply, fill out the application form then complete a test emailed to you and submit for review.You’ll be notified if your submission is considered.

23. eScribers

Application Requirement: Windows PC , Pass Test, US resident,

Payment Rate: $1.25 per page

Transcription Fields: General, Medical, Legal

Method of payment: Direct Deposit or check

Payment Frequency: Weekly

Availability: US only

eScribers is a company that offers transcription services and court reporting specifically for the legal community.

They employ experienced transcribers and reporters who work on transcribing audio recordings of legal proceedings and ensure the accuracy of the transcripts through a team of proofreaders.

You will be working on legal proceedings, including court hearings, depositions, and other legal events. As for payment, eScribers pay $1.25 per page.

Pros

Work from home
Set working schedule

Cons

Low pay
Experience required
Us residents only

24. Cambridge Transcriptions

Cambridge Transcriptions is constantly searching for experienced corporate and A+ legal transcriptionists to join their team of freelance workers.

Their transcription files include interviews, conference calls, court proceedings, depositions and much more.

They hire fast typists who have a strong grasp of the English grammar, punctuation and vocabulary, are detail-oriented, and capable of following specific instructions. You must also have at least a year of transcription experience.

If interested to join the staff, email your cover letter, resume and transcript samples to employtran@ctran.com.

25. BabbleType

English-language transcriptionists at Athreon exclusively consider candidates who are either current or former long-term residents of the United States (excluding California), Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, or New Zealand.

Exceptional proficiency in language, keen listening skills, and the capacity to handle intricate transcript formats are prerequisites for this role. Due to these stringent criteria, the hiring process is highly selective.

As the transcripts we generate play a vital role in market research projects, absolute adherence to completeness, accuracy, and reliability is imperative.

26. Transcription for Everyone

Transcription For Everyone (TFE) is a specialized transcription service provider offering top-notch English Torah, medical, court, legal, and general transcription services.

They also excel in delivering exceptional translations and captions (subtitles) for our clients’ audio and video files. They aim to produce documents of the highest quality to meet clients’ needs.

With a team comprising of 550 dedicated professionals including transcribers, editors, proofreaders, translators, and captioners, TFE has experienced significant growth. This means that they are very selective in who they hire.

27. Voxtab

A constituent of Crimson Interactive,Voxtab hires experienced transcribers worldwide. Apart from transcription, they also offer captioning and subtitling services in a lot of languages which follows a 3-step quality check process involving accuracy review and analysis.

Interested applicants are required to submit their resume through their website.

28. Athreon

Athreon is a transcription company that make use of cutting-edge AI transcription technology combined with thorough workflow evaluations to deliver high-quality transcripts promptly, efficiently, and with utmost security.

They hire independent contractor remote workers from the US and Canada with at least 2 years of transcription experience.

Transcribers are paid every week for completed work. The more you submit quality work, the more you earn.

29. ScribeAid

Scribeaid specializes in legal and medical transcription fields. They also provide typing services with reliable quality standards.

Scribeaid’s offers services through a reliable, secure and state of the art transcription infrastructure by outsourcing specialist transcription staff.

They hire transcriptionists occasionally via their website.

30. Ubiqus on Demand (Verbal Ink)

Ubiqus on Demand hires 100% US-based English Language transcriptionists. They have open positions for academic, medical, legal, and market research transcriptions.

You must have a strong command of the English language, be familiar with basic computer programs, and be able to meet deadlines.

31. Fiverr Transcription

Fiver is one of the largest freelance online marketplace sites on the web connecting millions of freelancers with special skills or talent and clients buying and selling digital services. Originally, all services on the site were priced at $5, as the name suggest.

You get to set your own rates depending on the service you offer. Digital services (also called “gigs”) include transcription, proofreading, web design, graphic design, and copywriting to name but a few.

On Fiverr, a gig buyer (registered client who purchases freelance services) requests for a specific service and a seller (registered freelancer) offers it at a set price.

To join Fiverr as a freelance transcriptionist, you are required to sign up for an account and set up a compelling transcription profile to showcase your skills and experience.

You’ll then have to create custom gigs (provide information about your services, requirements and your charges) for advertising to prospective buyers and get paid upon order completion.

32. Upwork Transcription

Upwork, just like Fiverr, is an online work marketplace where talented freelancers get to showcase their expertise to potential clients in different fields around the world.

The freelance skill categories include writing, transcription, copywriting, web design and development, virtual assistant, social media marketing, proofreading and much more.

To kickstart your freelancing career on Upwork as a transcriber,create a free account using your email address, Google or Apple account and follow the prompts to the next part of creating a persuasive profile and adding your portfolio.

You’ll also have to indicate your work experience, title and overview, contact details, set your hourly rate, previews the profile and submits.

Unlike Fiverr, you will be required to verify your identity on Upwork by adding a profile picture, uploading either a valid government-issued ID or video call verification before you can apply to projects by submitting proposals.

33. Transcription Certification Institute (TCI)

Are you passionate about becoming a General Transcriptionist from anywhere across the globe?

Well, Transcription Certificate Institute offersyou a transcription training program to join and start earning your potential within weeks.

They guarantee quality, 100% online, accuracy, career support and unlimited free access to free transcription resources to leverage your transcription endeavors.

34. Transcription Wing

Transcription Wing hires transcriptionists worldwide who have a strong grasp of the English language, excellent listening skills, goal oriented and able to work from anywhere around the world.

Their transcription files are in the form of interviews, podcasts, and conferencecalls among many others.

35. Transcription Experts

As the name suggests, Transcription Experts require those with experience. It is a veteran in the transcription field, having launched in 1986.

They have been providing superior transcription services to companies and individuals throughout the U.S.

Both in-house and remote US-based transcribers with 2+ years of transcription experience are hired. Most of their audio content involves Legal and Law enforcement and Spanish to English files.

36. Sonix

Sonix.io is an automated speech transcription, instant video caption and subtitles site using the latest artificial intelligence transcription API and natural language processing to ensure the highest accuracy levels.

Real-time transcription and live caption services are offered in over 40 languages including English, Spanish, French and Italian. They promise highly accurate, affordable and expedited services.

37. Cyber Dictate

CyberDictate is a web-based transcription company based in Texas, US. They are constantly seeking out individuals like you – experienced and driven by integrity to join their team Transcription experience is a must (3+ years) to work for Cyber Dictate.

They hire general transcriptionists based in the USA only to work as independent contractors.Currently, only legal transcribers are accepted. To be considered, you must have a foot pedal, headset, type 85 words per minute and have transcription software capable of reading DSS, DS2, WAV, MP3, DVI, WMV audio files.

Also be able to read AVI and MPEG files, at a minimum. Additionally, you are required to have the latest versions of Corel WordPerfect, Microsoft Word and Microsoft excel installed.

38. Alice Darling

Alice Darling audio transcription services occasionally hires transcribers from around the world. You need to have experience to be considered.

Their transcription services deal with academic work, legal,market research, science & technology, biotechnology, finance, medicine, entertainment and advertisement. You should have a typing speed of 70+ words per minute, excellent English and grammar skills.

If you are an expert in transcription, try applying to Alice Darling audio transcription services. You may land a good work from home job.

39. Accuro

Accuro is a top transcription company in the United Kingdom. They have transcription jobs for talented and experienced transcriptions.

You get flexible working hours but they prefer UK-based transcriptionists. Accuro mainly focus on legal and medical transcription.

40. Allegis Transcription

Allegis Transcription offers freelance transcription jobs for interested transcriptionists based within the United States. Allegis specializes in transcription for the insurance and legal industries.

You should have at least two years of experience in the legal and insurance industries. As an independent contractor, you choose which files to take and how much work to take as you work on your own schedule. Allegis Transcription pay rate is around $18/hour.

As an independent contractor transcriptionist for Allegis, you decide how much you work and work on your schedule.

Transcription Jobs FAQ

Is a Career in Transcription Worth it?
As mentioned earlier, engaging in transcription work necessitates a commitment of time and possibly financial resources for acquiring necessary tools. However, with dedication and consistency, transcription jobs can yield substantial rewards.

As a freelance transcriptionist, you have the freedom to work from anywhere in the world, establish your own schedule with flexible hours, and choose when to work.

Nevertheless, it is important to remain vigilant for fraudulent websites that may exploit your efforts by offering meager compensation.

While it is natural for beginners to receive lower salaries initially, as you gain experience and attract higher-paying clients, the financial returns from transcription will be well worth your exertion and expertise.

How much do Transcription Sites Pay You?

Most transcription sites prefer per audio minute pricing. Some may pay per line, per page, per hour, or per typed document.

Beginners typically take around four hours to transcribe one hour of high-quality audio. Professionals can transcribe much faster. Professional transcribers working with private clients tend to earn more.

How Much Money Can I Possibly Make As a Transcriptionist?

Your income as a transcriptionist depends on various factors such as skillset, typing speed, listening skills, command of different English accents, expertise, and the type of project.

The field of transcription (general, medical, legal) also affects payment rates. On average, a transcriptionist’s salary is around $15 per hour, while experienced professionals earn $25 to $45 per hour.

This translates to earning $1,200 to $2,500 per month in a good month. Beginners start with lower rates and increase earnings with experience.

Is Transcription Training and Courses Necessary?

While experience is not always required for transcription, having training and experience can significantly impact your earning potential. Clients and employers value professionals with expertise.

Training from an industry expert can help you gain valuable skills and experience, enabling you to work directly with clients and access more lucrative opportunities.

Enroll in Janet Shaughnessy’s Free 7-Lesson Mini Course to discover the ins and outs of transcription, determine if it’s right for you, explore potential earnings, and understand the current demand for this valuable skill.

Wrapping Up

Transcription work may seem like an easy option, but it’s not suitable for everyone. It requires patience and consistency, as you will encounter challenges such as poor audio quality, thick accents, background noise, multiple speakers, and low pay.

Getting some transcription training may be a wise decision you can make. Training not only helps you develop advanced skills and knowledge in the transcription field, but also enables you to identify the right transcription jobs for you, increasing your chances of joining higher paying opportunities.

To ensure a steady flow of transcription work, consider applying to multiple transcription companies. Investing in high-quality transcription equipment like a foot pedal, headset, and software can expedite your work and increase your earnings.

As most transcription jobs allow you to work from home as an independent contractor, you can explore opportunities worldwide without being limited by location.

Remember, working directly with clients often yields higher income as a transcriptionist.

Initially, as a beginner, you may encounter low pay from most transcription companies. However, as you improve your transcription speed and skills, what seems like low pay now can become more significant in the future.

Furthermore, the experience gained from lower-paying projects can lead to higher paying transcription jobs down the line.

Have you considered a career in transcription? What’s your experience working as a transcriptionist? Share with us in the comments below. And don’t forget to share the article with your friends on social media.