Saving money on transcription jobs that pay does not have to be complicated. We rounded up the essentials so you can spend less and skip the guesswork.
Key Takeaways
- 9 Transcription Jobs That Pay You to Type Audio to Text Transcription jobs require strong typing skills, a knack for detail, and fast turnar...
- These great companies offer high-paying gigs.
- Written by Trinity Owen Last Updated: April 1, 2025 Reviewed by Zina Kumok Home Jobs Some of the links on DollarSprout point to products or...
Transcription jobs require strong typing skills, a knack for detail, and fast turnaround times. These excellent companies offer high-paying gigs.
Written by Trinity Owen Last Updated: April 1, 2025 Reviewed by Zina KumokSome of the links on DollarSprout point to products or services from partners we trust. If you choose to make a purchase through one, we may earn a commission, which supports the ongoing maintenance and improvement of our site at no additional cost to you. Learn more.
If you’re a fast typist and can translate audio to written form quickly, then you may enjoy working from home as a transcriptionist.
A transcriptionist listens to recorded audio and types it into a text format for clients. Some transcription jobs need every single word written out, including “umms” and “uhs,” while others just want the basic words. Examples of audio clips include meetings, conferences, classes, monologues, and more.
The transcription job description is simple, but each client may require different formatting or have other special requests. For example, one client may need the audio typed exactly as spoken, while another client may ask for bullet points.
When working directly with a client, you frequently get to set your own rates, turnaround times, and other guidelines. You also have the flexibility of a work-from-home job. If you’re working with an agency that provides jobs, you’ll need to follow their stipulations.
A few years ago, I tried my hand at transcribing audio to text. At the time, it was a grueling procedure, and I had to rewind the audio constantly. Transcribing one six-minute audio clip easily took more than 30 minutes of my time, and it only paid a few bucks.
Today, things are different. Transcription tools have improved, so it’s easier to complete transcription jobs quickly. User-friendly voice-to-text programs allow you to quickly transcribe the majority of an audio file in almost real-time, without manually typing each word one by one.
Who Can Work In Transcription?
Transcription jobs are excellent for college students, stay-at-home moms, and even high school students who can listen and type quickly.
Transcribing audio files might be a excellent opportunity to make money online full-time or as a side hustle.
You can find your own transcription jobs working directly with clients or for a transcription company. Transcription platforms tend to pay less than working with clients directly, but they may provide consistent work and won’t require you to market your services. If you’re a beginner transcriptionist, it may be easier to build experience by working with an agency.
What You Need to Know About Remote Transcription Jobs
The best thing about transcription jobs is that they’re typically remote, so you can work from home. Remote transcription jobs allow you to transcribe on the side for extra income or potentially build a full-time career while at home or on the go.
There are three types of work-from-home transcription jobs you can do: generic or entry-level, medical, and legal.
If you’re new to transcribing and need to get experience under your belt, then entry-level jobs are going to be your best option. If you already have experience and are ready to become certified in the medical or legal transcription job field, then those options will allow you to increase your income.
Transcription is like any other industry. As a beginner, it can be difficult to find high-paying transcription jobs from home. As you grow your client base, your income will also increase.
Most companies set a pay rate per “audio hour.” This isn’t the same as clocking in and out and getting paid per hour. Instead, you’re paid based on a set rate for one hour of audio transcribed. When you see a pay rate, make sure you understand if it’s the audio hour or the general hourly rate. Transcribing can be a lengthy process, especially for a beginner.
Most companies assign transcription jobs based on short snippets of audio (2- to 10-minute clips). You’ll rarely be required to transcribe a full hour of audio in one sitting if hired to work for these companies.
How to Become a Transcriptionist
Jumping into the field is relatively simple. Most beginner transcriptionists start by taking an online transcription course that teaches them the skills necessary to perform the job.
Companies, such as Transcribe Anywhere, offer classes that teach students the basics of general, medical, or legal transcription, as well as how to find new clients.
You can also find transcription jobs online.
1. FlexJobs
- Pay: Depends on the job, workload, and experience required
- Payment Method: Depends on the employer
- Payment Frequency: Depends on the employer
- Experience Required: Depends on the employer
FlexJobs is a job board that focuses on online, flexible, and work-from-home opportunities. You can find a range of transcribing jobs on the site, including both part-time and full-time positions, and filter opportunities by remote, freelance, flexible, part-time, and full-time options.
These jobs may be for US-based companies or international firms. In some cases, you may even find opportunities if you’re fluent in another language. A downside to using FlexJobs is that the site requires a paid membership, ranging from $14.95 for a one-month membership to $49.95 for a one-year subscription. You can join for one week for $6.95 to see if you find any jobs that fit your needs and experience.
Related: FlexJobs Review: Is a Membership Worth Your Money?
2. Fiverr
- Pay: $30 to $120+ per audio hour
- Payment Method: PayPal, Fiverr Revenue Card, or Direct Deposit
- Payment Frequency: 14 days after job completion (7 days if you’re a top-rated seller)
- Experience Required: None
Fiverr is a job platform that allows you to list almost any type of professional service you can think of. Though numerous think Fiverr is only for beginners, it’s also for seasoned transcriptionists.
You set your rate on Fiverr. Someone can reach out to negotiate, but you can always decline. Research other reputable transcriptionists and use their pay structure as a guide. Remember, competition and quality are key when choosing a rate for your services. You can use Fiverr as a way to find new clients and deactivate the account once you have a steady stream of reliable clients.
Related: 17 Places to Take Paid Online Surveys for Cash
3. Allegis Transcription
- Pay: Between $13 and $17 per hour
- Payment Method: Not available
- Payment Frequency: Not available
- Experience Required: May need prior experience with legal or industry transcription
Allegis Transcription focuses on transcribing files for the insurance and legal industries. The jobs are for independent contractors, which means you’re not a full- or part-time employee. Some reports from former employees said that the rates were low, so this job may only work if you’re a beginner. You can apply for a position here, get some experience under your belt, and then look for higher-paying gigs after a few months.
You’ll need to be based in the US and meet their technology requirements.
4. Scribie
- Pay: $5 to $25 per audio hour + bonus potential
- Payment Method: PayPal
- Payment Frequency: Any time
- Experience Required: None
Final Thoughts
The bottom line: a little research on transcription jobs that pay goes a long way. Compare your options, watch for seasonal offers, and never pay full price when a better deal is one click away. Originally published at dollarsprout.com.
