25 Best Online Proofreading Jobs for Beginners in 2025

Ever find yourself mentally correcting grammar when you read articles online? Or maybe you've always been the go-to person when your friends need help with resumes or essays. If that sounds like you, there’s good news: you can actually get paid to do that, right from your laptop.

In 2025, there are more online proofreading jobs than ever before. With businesses, bloggers, and even AI tools pumping out content daily, there's a growing demand for real humans to give it the final polish.

And the best part? You don’t need a degree or professional experience to get started. Just a sharp eye, a solid grasp of grammar, and a willingness to learn.

So, whether you’re looking for a side hustle or hoping to build a remote career, here are 25 of the best places to find online proofreading jobs, especially if you’re just starting out.

First Things First: What Is a Proofreader?

A proofreader is basically the last line of defense before something gets published. Your job is to catch mistakes: spelling errors, missing words, weird punctuation, formatting issues, that sort of thing.

It’s different from editing, which involves restructuring and rewriting. Proofreading is more about cleaning things up and making sure the writing flows smoothly.

If you’re the type who notices when “your” is used instead of “you’re,” you’re already halfway there.

Why Proofreading Is Perfect for Beginners

Here’s why online proofreading jobs are a solid starting point if you’re new to working online:

• You don’t need formal experience: Strong grammar skills and attention to detail are more important than a degree.
• You can work from anywhere: Your couch, a coffee shop, or even while traveling.
• You control your hours: Take on as much or as little as you want.
• It can grow with you: Start small and work your way up to higher-paying gigs or full-time freelance work.

Let’s jump into where you can actually find these jobs.

25 Best Online Proofreading Jobs for Beginners

1. ProofreadingServices.com

A solid company that hires proofreaders for both part-time and full-time remote work. Pay ranges from $19 to $46 an hour, and you don’t need a degree to apply. There’s a short test, but it’s manageable if your grammar is strong.

2. Upwork

It’s one of the biggest freelancing platforms out there. You’ll need to create a profile and pitch for jobs, but once you land a few gigs and get good reviews, things start to snowball. Tons of beginner-friendly proofreading jobs pop up every day.

3. Fiverr

This is where you create a listing (called a “gig”) and offer proofreading services directly to clients. It’s slower at first, but once you get reviews, your visibility increases. A lot of freelancers make steady income here over time.

4. Scribbr

If academic writing is your thing, Scribbr focuses on proofreading student essays and dissertations. They offer training, but their application process is a little tougher. Still, it's worth a try if you like working with academic content.

5. Polished Paper

They offer decent pay and attract a range of clients, from authors to businesses. You’ll need to submit a résumé and complete a short editing test to qualify.

6. Scribendi

This site has been around forever and hires freelance proofreaders for different kinds of documents. They tend to favor people with experience, but strong language skills can get your foot in the door.

7. Wordvice

Great for anyone interested in academic or admissions proofreading. They often need help with essays, research papers, and journal articles.

8. EditFast

Once your profile is approved, you can take on projects from clients who find you through the platform. It’s not super high-volume, but it’s one more way to get experience.

9. Reedsy

This one’s perfect if you’re interested in books. Reedsy connects authors with editors and proofreaders. You’ll need some samples or experience, but even newer freelancers can break in with the right pitch.

10. PeoplePerHour

A UK-based freelancing platform that works a lot like Fiverr or Upwork. You can pitch for jobs or create a listing and wait for clients to come to you.

11. Freelancer.com

Very similar to Upwork. It’s a good place to find entry-level proofreading work if you’re okay with some competition in the beginning.

12. Clickworker

Clickworker offers small online tasks, and some of them involve proofreading short texts. It won’t pay a ton, but it’s very beginner-friendly and easy to get started.

13. FlexJobs

A well-known job board for remote and flexible work. You do have to pay a monthly fee, but the listings are vetted, so no scams or shady job posts.

14. Contena

Another paid platform that helps freelance writers and editors find clients. It’s geared toward building a long-term career, so it’s best if you’re in it for the long haul.

15. Cactus Communications

They hire proofreaders with backgrounds in science, medicine, or academia. If you’re into technical writing or want more specialized (and higher-paying) gigs, check them out.

16. WordsRU

WordsRU hires freelance proofreaders to work on academic, business, and book content. They prefer applicants with a graduate degree or editing experience, but strong grammar skills can still get you in. All work is remote and flexible.

17. Babelcube

This platform works with indie authors who are translating and publishing books. You help clean up translated work and get paid through royalties. It’s more of a long-term play, but good experience.

18. Edit24-7

Edit24-7 offers 24/7 proofreading and editing services for business, academic, and general content. They look for proofreaders with strong attention to detail and solid grammar skills. Work is remote and available on a freelance basis.

19. LinkedIn

Yes, really. Search “remote proofreading jobs” or “freelance proofreader” and you’ll find listings from businesses, publishers, and startups. Even better: connect with content managers; they’re often hiring quietly.

20. Indeed

It might take some filtering, but Indeed lists hundreds of remote proofreading jobs. Look for contract or freelance roles, and don’t be afraid to apply even if you don’t check every box.

21. Remote.co

A great site for fully remote jobs. They often list proofreading, writing, and editing gigs that are perfect for beginners or part-time freelancers.

22. Outsourcely

Outsourcely connects remote workers with startups around the world. Create a profile, list your proofreading skills, and wait for potential matches.

23. Gramlee

Gramlee hires remote editors and proofreaders to work on everything from blog posts to business content. You don’t need formal experience, but you’ll need strong writing skills and a keen eye for grammar.

24. Workana

Popular in Latin America, but open to anyone. It’s a freelance platform that regularly lists writing and proofreading gigs, great if you're bilingual or want something less competitive than Upwork.

25. Facebook Groups & Reddit

Yep, don’t underestimate social media. Search for groups like “Freelance Proofreaders” or browse subreddits like r/HireaWriter. People post jobs, ask for help, or even look for ongoing proofreading support.

How Much Can You Actually Make?

Most beginners start around $15 to $25 an hour, depending on the platform and type of work. But once you get experience or start working with direct clients, $30–$50+ an hour isn’t uncommon, especially if you specialize in academic or business writing.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need to be a grammar snob or an English major to start proofreading. You just need sharp eyes, solid writing instincts, and the courage to start small.

Try one or two of the platforms above, build up your confidence, and you might be surprised how quickly proofreading turns into a real source of income, or even a career.

In a world full of content, clear writing stands out. And if you can help polish that up? There's a spot for you in this field.

FAQs About Online Proofreading Jobs

1. How do I become an online proofreader?

To become an online proofreader, start by strengthening your grammar and writing skills. You don’t need a degree, but it helps to take a proofreading course or certification (like Proofread Anywhere or Coursera). Then, create a profile on freelance platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or ProofreadingServices.com, and start applying for beginner-level jobs to build your portfolio.

2. Can I really make money from proofreading online?

Yes, you can absolutely make money proofreading online; whether as a side hustle or a full-time gig. Beginners often earn $15–$25 an hour, while experienced proofreaders can charge up to $50+ per hour, especially with direct clients or specialized industries like legal, medical, or academic proofreading.

3. How much do Amazon proofreaders get paid?

Amazon doesn’t publicly list proofreading job salaries, but contract or freelance proofreaders working with Amazon Publishing or KDP authors can expect to earn anywhere from $20 to $45 per hour, depending on experience and project type. Many Amazon authors hire proofreaders directly via platforms like Reedsy or Upwork.

4. What qualifications do I need to be a proofreader?

Most online proofreading jobs don’t require a formal degree. However, you’ll need strong grammar skills, close attention to detail, and the ability to follow style guides (like APA or Chicago). Taking an online course or earning a proofreading certificate can help you stand out in a crowded market.

5. Is online proofreading a good job for beginners?

Yes, online proofreading is one of the most accessible remote jobs for beginners. It requires low startup costs, flexible hours, and no advanced tech skills. As long as you’re confident in your writing and grammar abilities, you can start with entry-level jobs and work your way up.