Highest Paying Transcription Jobs

Last Updated on May 23, 2024 by Ludiah

What was the first thing that came to your mind when you thought of becoming a transcriptionist? I’m sure you Googled on how to become a transcriptionist, right. And most likely you had a dream of how you’ll start getting the Highest Paying Transcription Jobs. Your dream is valid. Whether you’re looking for transcription jobs or to learn more about transcription. This post is for you.

What are the Highest Paying Transcription Jobs Online?

The highest paying transcription jobs include GoTranscript, TransribeMe, SpeakWrite, Rev, Casting Words, & Speechpad. The pay-per-minute audio and others are based on your level. Every website has its guidelines and pay rate. Keep reading for more details about the transcription websites above.

What is transcription?

Transcription is the art of listening to audio files and transforming them into a written documents. There are 3 types of transcripts:

  • Clean read/ intelligent version– Transcripts that omit false starts and corrects mistakes in the audio file.
  • Modified Verbatim- It is a refined mix of both verbatim and clean-read
  • Verbatim– Transcripts include every phrase and utterance, even the mistakes said.

In simple terms, transcriptionists convert speech, either live or recorded, to a written document. To achieve this the transcriptionists have to acquire certain skills like accuracy, fast typing skills, and good language skills. If this interests you, here is how to become a transcriptionist working from home UK.

There are two types of transcriptionists:

  • Those who transcribe general files like voicemails or interviews
  • Those who undergo specialized training to work in specialized fields like legal or medical transcription.
Best Highest Paying Transcription Jobs
Transcription jobs

Transcription requirements for beginners

Getting the right transcription tools and skills can help you transcribe easily and become a professional. These requirements are important if you want to get into transcription. But before that, learn how to become a transcriptionist easily. The requirements include:

A computer

If you want to become a general, legal or medical transcriber, you’ll need a computer. This is the most basic requirement. You may need to invest heavily in this as they can be expensive. Most companies will require you to use Microsoft Word since it is the commonly used word processor for general transcription. That’s why you should ensure you have the best laptop with Microsoft Word installed. This is one of the best laptops for transcription??

High-speed Internet Connection

This is important since it will determine how fast you transcribe. A fast internet connection will ensure there are no errors while working. This is a basic requirement to work for most transcription companies.

Headset or headphones

They will help you listen clearly to what is being said in the audio file. Getting headphones with the noise-canceling feature is helpful. They will reduce background noise making you concentrate on the ongoing task. Lightweight headphones are the best as you will use them for longer periods. You can use earbuds but they aren’t effective.

Transcription software

Accuracy and speed are important in transcription. Thus is you need to use the best software to achieve the highest accuracy. There are numerous transcription software, both free and paid, which can make your work easier. Also, you need software that is compatible with your audio files. Express Scribe is a good example of transcription software.

For instance, you can get a Transcription Foot Pedal that you can use with Express Scribe. This will help you transcribe faster, especially when you’re a beginner. The foot pedal will allow you to control the recording. You can pause, play, rewind, slow down or stop the audio. It enables you to use your foot instead of your hands to control the audio. This makes you more productive and fast enough.

Language skills

Since transcription involves writing audio files and editing texts, you need to familiarize yourself with English or other languages. You can improve your spelling by writing often and using spell check.

Listening skills

To become a pro transcriber, you’ll need to have impressive listening skills. Be keen and use transcription software like Express Scribe to help you with listening to the audio files. Let me explain. With Express Scribe, you can easily play forward or rewind so you get the words clear and avoid mishears. You can also use noise-canceling headphones to reduce background noise.

Accuracy

This is important, especially if you’re transcribing specific audio files, like legal or medical files. You should put more time and effort into getting the best accuracy percentage. If you want to handle medical transcription jobs ensure you understand the medical language/vocabularies/terms.

Frequently asked questions about transcription

If you’ve been having these questions while looking for transcription sites that pay well, we’ve answered nearly all of them. Let’s know if you have got a question that you need to be answered.

What is the Difference between working hours and audio hours?

Audio hours is the measurement of the length of audio that you will be transcribing. If the audio clip is 30 minutes long, that is one half of an audio hour. Working hours is the measurement of the time that you’re working. If it takes 1 hour to transcribe a 15-minute clip, your working hours will be 1 hour. Many online transcription jobs will pay based on the number of audio hours transcribed. If you’re paid per audio hour, you need to track the actual time that you’re working so you can calculate the hourly rate for your working hours.

How long does it take to transcribe one hour of audio?

Experts can transcribe one audio hour for about 2-3 hours. However, the period it takes to transcribe a file depends on a lot of factors, including your typing speed. The standard time is 4 hours of typing a one hour audio file. It may, however, be higher or lower depending on the details of the audio file. On average, a beginner can use 6 hours to transcribe decent audio with a clear speaker.

The clarity of the audio is also another factor. Sometimes, the speaker may be inaudible and is talking fast making the audio unclear, this can lower your pace. If you have clear audio and the speaker is speaking slowly, you may be able to transcribe faster.

can you make a living transcribing?

Yes, you can make a living transcribing. This, however, doesn’t mean that anyone who tries it will be able to make a full-time income. It depends on factors like experience, where you live, and how fast you work. To increase your chances of earning an income, you should consider getting training and certification. This will open up more job opportunities and turn you into a professional transcriber. Also, try looking for Highest Paying Transcription Jobs so you can make good money transcribing at the comfort of your home.

If you’re looking to learn transcription, join this free training by Transcribe Anywhere if you want to win the best transcription jobs online.

According to ZipRecruiter, the average salary for a full-time transcriptionist is $58,218 or $28 per hour. To reach this level, you need to put in more hard work and commitment.

Can I do online Transcription work part-time?

Yes, working part-time is preferred to doing it full-time. All of the transcription websites will offer great flexibility so you can work in your own time and schedule. You can work as little or as much as you want. This can allow you to attend to other jobs and responsibilities. You can look for online transcription jobs for beginners that do not require much of your time.

How fast does a transcriptionist need to type

There is no standard for a minimum typing speed. The requirements for speed and accuracy can differ from one company to another. If your goal is to be a good transcriber, you need to type at least 70 words a minute. You will get some transcription jobs at slower typing speeds but at 70 words per minute, you’ll be qualified for most of the jobs. Typing is a skill that can be learned quickly with practice.

Is working as a transcriptionist a flexible job?

Of course, working as a transcriptionist is a flexible job! One of the advantages of working as a transcriptionist is the fact that you can work as much or as little as you want, whenever you want. There are very few jobs that offer this kind of flexibility. The turnaround time for each company is different, ensure you’re working for a company with a considerate turnaround time

How much do entry-level transcriptionists make?

Most transcription jobs that require no experience will pay less than the minimum wage. Although you’ll be paid per audio minute, it may end up being less than the minimum wage. You can, however, increase that amount by improving your typing speed, language skills, and accuracy, and gaining experience. You can also get certified, though it is optional, it can open many transcription opportunities for you.

So, how much does a transcriptionist charge per hour? It varies from one transcriptionist to another. It also depends on many factors from how long it takes you to transcribe the file to its clarity.

The amount you make also depends on how much you charge. But if you focus on bagging the Highest Paying Transcription Jobs, you’ll definitely earn more.

How do I earn more as a Transcriptionist?

You can earn more as a transcriptionist by attending a training program and getting certified. It helps to improve your skills so you can earn faster. It will also improve your chances of getting into higher-paying companies. Once you start earning, consider investing in transcription equipment and software which can make your work easier.

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List of Highest Paying Transcription Jobs

Check out our list of highest paying transcription jobs. Comment below and let’s know what you think of this article written by Onami.

TransribeMe

TrasncribeMe is a popular option for beginners interested in transcribing as a way to earn extra cash. They don’t require previous experience but having a background in either law or medicine can get you a higher pay rate.

The company monthly average transcriptionists, in this company, can earn as much as earnings at $250 monthly. Their experienced transcriptionists earn as much as $2,200. They pay anytime via Paypal. They have a limited number of jobs so you have to be fast to get jobs.

The company shortens the projects received into short 1 or 2-minute clips, making them less difficult. To apply, register on their website, take the test and wait for their reply within 12 business days.

SpeakWrite

SpeakWrite is always looking for general transcriptionists with at least 1 year of experience. Most of their customer base is largely made up of legal, government, and law enforcement sector clients. They, therefore, encourage transcribers with a background in law to apply.

Candidates are also required to have a minimum typing speed of 60 wpm with at least 90% accuracy. Once accepted, you need to have a foot pedal to continue working. You can also choose your schedule but you must work a minimum of 15 hours a month to retain employment.

The expected pay is $0.005 per word with a 10% bonus for some extra shifts. The payment is made twice a month by direct deposit or check. There is a steady flow of jobs.

GoTranscript

GoTranscript accepts transcribers from all over the world, even without experience. You will however need to prove your identity by sending your photo.

The company has a reasonable turnaround time of 6 hours for 10-minute media. This favors slow typers and beginners. They lack a monthly quota so you’re free to work as much or as little as you want.

The expected pay is up to $0.6 per audio minute and they pay weekly via PayPal or Payoneer. GoTranscription has a constant flow of jobs. You can register here

Daily Transcription

Daily transcription has top clients like the Bank of America, The New York Times, HBO, and The US Air Force. This means that they always have a steady amount of work with a good pay rate. They, however, only accept transcribers from the US or Canada. You just need to pass the transcription test and the skills assessment test.

After the training period, you’ll get tasks depending on the schedule you’ve signed up for. The company pays $0.75 to $0.85 per audio minute, weekly by check. There is a steady flow of jobs. Their audio files are from the corporate, entertainment, and legal sectors. They also have some audio files from academic institutions. There are numerous positive online reviews about this company.

Rev

Rev is a large network of freelancers with many global clients like Amazon, Google, and Facebook. You only need good listening skills, a relatively fast typing speed, a reliable internet connection and a computer to apply. You will have to pass a test to start working.

They pay $0.25 to $1.10 per audio minute and payment is done weekly via PayPal. There is a steady flow of jobs, from recorded interviews and focus groups to lectures and podcasts. This is where you will find your Highest Paying Transcription Jobs if you keep improving on the quality that you provide.

Casting Words

To get hired by Casting Words, you need to fill out their form. You may or may not need to take a test depending on your experience. Once accepted, you can choose any job provided in their list.

By working for Casting Words, you’ll get paid $0.085 to over $1 per audio minute. Pay varies on factors like the type of job, the level you’ve reached and how well you did the job. The higher the grade for accuracy, the more you’ll be paid. Payments are made once per week through PayPal.

CrowdSurf

This company specializes in creating captions for education, entertainment and business videos to help the hearing-impaired and second language viewers. The videos are divided into 30-second clips to make the task easier for the transcribers.

Signing up is easy, you’ll need to pass the transcription assessment and provide valid proof of your identity. Once accepted, You’ll get login instructions through email in less than 5 days.

The pay is relatively low at $0.03 to $0.20 per audio minute with some bonus rates. Payment is made through the Work Market, from there, you can withdraw funds via bank transfer, Paypal, or WM Visa Card. There is a limited number of jobs.

3Play Media

3Play Media has a limited number of jobs but they do pay well. According to reviews from their members, you can get paid anywhere from $10 to $30 per working hour. They pay in working hours, not audio hours so they pay well.

3Play Media transcribes their video files by speech recognition software. Since computer-generated transcriptions are usually inaccurate, your job is to make sure that they are accurate.

Transcript Divas

This is the best company for transcribers looking for a side hustle and good pay. The company’s main aim is to pay more than the average wage for transcriptionists in the USA

There are both high and low seasons in terms of work available, but this is common in most companies. They pay $0.84 to $2.98 per audio minute through PayPal or Bank transfer weekly. The company accepts transcribers with experience or not. They, however, have very high standards and only accept a few percentage of applicants.

Averbach transcription

Averbach Transcription is one of the best paying transcription companies. They pay according to an audio minute. For files with a 2 day or more turnaround, you get paid $1.00 per audio minute. For those with overnight or same-day turnarounds, you get $1.50 per audio minute through PayPal.

To be accepted, you need to have a 2-year transcribing experience and pass their skills test. You’ll be transcribing for the entertainment industry and also focus groups for researchers.

GMR Transcription

GMR Transcription is one of the highest paying companies that do not require prior experience. They, however, only accept US-based applicants. You also need to have a foot pedal, MS office, high-speed internet, and the best headphones for transcription to work for them.

Once you’ve passed the exam, you’ll have to transcribe 2 hours’ worth of audio before you can receive any payments. After this probation period, you need to transcribe at least 4 audio hours every month to stay employed.

They have a steady amount of jobs to help you meet their quota. They pay $0.70 to $1.25 per audio minute monthly through PayPal or direct bank transfer.

How to find transcription jobs that pay well

The following ways can easily help you land transcribing jobs from potential clients. They include:

Free advertising

There are numerous ways to advertise and many of them are free. Social media is your friend when looking for transcription jobs. Create a business profile and place it on as many social media platforms as possible. Some of the most prominent platforms include:

  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn
  • Twitter
  • Instagram

You can job transcription groups on Facebook and advertise yourself. You can also apply for jobs that different employers advertise for. You, however, have to be careful as some people on social media are untrustworthy. Some will post the Highest Paying Transcription Jobs, online to scam you.

Offer discounts

This is not one of the best ways but it can help you gain experience if you’re a beginner. There are many discounts you can offer to first-time clients. While you may want to control the number of discounts, they can be a useful tool to get potential clients. If it works out well, you can land yourself long term transcription jobs.

Freelancing platforms

Before creating a brand for yourself as a transcriber, you will need to advertise your services. Getting freelance transcription jobs is very easy. Simply search on the internet for platforms or clients looking to hire freelance transcribers. Some of the best freelance platforms include:

Upwork

This is one of the best freelancing platforms. Both large and small companies use it to find remote workers for various projects. Transcription jobs are among the on-demand services. Upload samples of transcription work you have done to increase the chances of finding a job.

Fiverr

Competition on Fiverr is tough, you have to be creative and entice clients to choose you to be their transcriber. Upload some of your transcription samples. This will give you an added advantage.

Craigslist

Unlike other platforms, Craigslist directly connects buyers and sellers. They offer freelancer protection by requesting the client to pay a full or partial upfront payment for any transcription job.

Cold pitching

Cold pitching is simply approaching people, through email or phone, and informing them of the services you offer. Your target clients can be podcasters, law professionals, the clergy among others. You can also look for institutions for the deaf who might need your services.

Cold pitching is a great method of finding transcription jobs. However, very few transcribers or freelancers, in general, enjoy using it. It can be frustrating at times when clients don’t respond or give negative feedback but you have to keep pitching. You also need to be patient before you can land your online transcription job through cold pitching.

Job Board Ads

If you’re new to transcribing and want to find quality jobs, responding to job ads is the best idea. You can also get consistent work from these clients. The main advantage of using job boards is that there is no bidding like in freelancing sites. While there are paid job boards, you should start by using free job boards, especially if you’re a beginner.

Use your website

The importance of a website is to build your portfolio. Show your potential clients how you are their best transcriber. You can attract higher-paying clients if you have a professional website. If you don’t have a website but want to create one, get your domain & hosting from Bluehost.

Network with other Transcriptionists

This is the best way to find the highest-paying transcription jobs. Network with other transcribers and learn from them. It can help you build long-term relationships as well as a good reputation. These relationships can refer you to potential clients or can even hire you to transcribe for them.

Conclusion

Transcription is very important today. Time is money, that is why everyone needs transcription. When you offer your transcription services to someone, you’re helping the person, to focus on other important things. Many businesses today require transcription, from law firms to health providers to individuals in the academic field and many others. This means that online transcription jobs will always be available. You should consider transcription as your part-time job if you’ve got a full-time job.