In the world of side hustles, proofreading appeals to the linguistically savvy and grammatically versed. It’s a low-stress, low-entry field that can supplement your income and bulk up your side hustle stack.
For the unfamiliar, proofreading is the final step in publishing. Proofreaders correct grammar, spelling, and formatting, and fact-check sources and claims. Unlike in copy editing, where content may be restructured or rewritten, proofreaders don’t make significant changes.
Proofreading isn’t limited to articles like the one you’re reading right now. You may review:
- Academic papers
- Manuscripts
- Contracts
- Technical documentation
- Grant proposals
Whatever you choose, the trick is finding your footing. Below, we go over seven sites that help you start your proofreading side hustle.
7 ways to find proofreading side hustles
In a post-pandemic world, the gig economy continues to thrive and plenty of sites hire part-time or freelance proofreaders. Rates vary, though ZipRecruiter puts the average at $27.65 per hour.
Getting started requires choosing the right platform(s). It may take some time, but it’s possible to develop a steady side income on any of the following sites.
1. Upwork
Upwork is one of the most popular freelance marketplaces and often the preferred platform for employers looking for contractors.
Launching your profile takes a few steps. Afterward, you can land your first gig by responding to client proposals. In my experience, short and sweet pitches are best. Once you have a few reviews and a decent reputation, clients may come to you or you can package your services through the Project Catalog.
That said, Upwork is competitive. The site also charges a 10% service fee on earnings. Additionally, responding to proposals requires “Connects,” which are limited to free users but may be purchased, rewarded, or supplied through a subscription.
2. Fiverr
Fiverr is a great choice if you prefer short-term, ad hoc work.
Getting started is relatively faster than on Upwork as there’s no extensive verification process. The pricing structure is also flexible. You can offer a Basic, Standard, and Premium package, where you outline the types of documents you’ll proofread, turnaround times, word count limits, and additional services like formatting or multiple revisions.
Clients can either come to you or post requests that you respond to. Expect fierce competition and service fees of up to 20% of the total purchase value.
3. LinkedIn
LinkedIn is my favorite way to find freelance work. Utilize it to network with potential clients and follow people in your target market, which cuts out the headache of bidding and proposals.
Additionally, you can use the job board to find work in specific niches, such as novels or scientific papers. I prefer to respond directly to user posts and follow up over DM as it’s easier to establish a genuine connection.
Note that you may need to make several connections to see certain profiles. I nevertheless recommend LinkedIn, especially if you already have experience or professional relationships to leverage.
4. ProofreadingServices.com
ProofreadingServices is a great starting point if you’d like a more direct service.
To begin, you’ll have to complete an assessment and, if approved, you may see all sorts of projects, from academic papers to book chapters. I recommend the site if you’re not too picky about what you do.
ProofreadingServices is open to international workers, which is great as some clients on different platforms limit their scope to the US only. Hours are flexible and the work is fully remote, but anticipate tight deadlines and varying client quality.
5. Cactus Communications
One caveat of proofreading is taking on projects you know nothing about. Cactus Communications (also called Cactus Global) plays to your expertise by offering opportunities in academic fields.
This means you will need relevant industry experience and a degree to start. It’s a flexible side hustle if you want to take on as much or as little as you want. However, client quality and scope of work vary. I suggest starting here to gain experience, then move on to find better work elsewhere.
6. Proofreading Pal
Proofreading Pal targets students or people with editing experience. The site uses a dual-review process, which means you’ll work with another person to finalize documents
Beyond collaboration, its greatest appeal lies in the flexible turnaround times and work variety. The site is also transparent about its current openings, saving you some grief in applying during the low season.
Like Cactus, there are prerequisites. You have to either have a graduate degree with five years of relevant work experience or be enrolled in higher education within the United States and maintain a GPA of 3.5 or higher.
7. Scribendi
Scribendi is a great option if you’re up for a challenge. The site primarily focuses on English as a Second Language (ESL) services and freelancers must feel comfortable tackling a variety of content, including academic papers, business documents, and creative work that may not be written in perfect English.
Furthermore, speed is key. I recommend the site if you’re a quick reader and don’t mind tight turnaround times.
Fortunately, you don’t have to be located in the US to work here, making it a great choice for digital nomads and international editors. They typically prefer proofreaders with a university degree in a relevant field, but newcomers are welcome.
Quick tips for finding work as a beginner
Proofreading is a great side hustle, but it’s easy for beginners to feel lost. Here are a few things to keep in mind if you’re just starting out.
- Visibility is key: Make sure potential clients can find you. Optimize your chosen platform’s profile (if there is one) and reach out directly whenever possible.
- Leverage referrals: Ask people who know you—friends, family, colleagues—to recommend you to potential clients.
- Develop a niche: Not all proofreading is created equal. Specializing in a specific area, like academic papers or legal documents, helps you stand out.
- Be selective: Try to focus on one or two platforms to start. The volume of work will vary, so it’s essential to have dedicated spaces with a steady stream of income.
- Upsell services: Offer additional value, like formatting, expedited delivery, or extra revisions, to increase your earnings.
- Plan accordingly: As a side hustle, know when and how you’ll invest time into proofreading. Never ignore potential clients, but don’t burn yourself out either.
- Know your value: The point of a side hustle is to optimize your income, not make life harder. If a site isn’t paying you appropriately, don’t be afraid to move on or boost your prices.
Final thoughts
As an editor, I know how essential the proofreading process is. It ensures that every piece of content—whether creative, academic, or technical—meets a professional standard and signals credibility to readers.
Consequently, there’s plenty of demand, but keep in mind that building a client base and gaining experience takes time. Don’t get discouraged if your side hustle doesn’t blossom overnight.
For more potential side hustles, check out our list of the 50 best remote gig work.
