7 Best Freelance Websites to Find Work as Editors & Proofreaders

Do you find it excruciating when someone uses the wrong “your” on a social media post? Do comments riddled with typos send you over the edge?

Maybe you should consider a career as a freelance editor.

Here are the best freelance sites you can join to find freelancing work as an editor or proofreader.

Check out our list of the best freelance websites for hiring editors and proofreaders.

Best Freelance Websites for Editors/Proofreaders

1. Contra

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Our top overall pick for editors and proofreaders is Contra.

The biggest benefit is that it’s commission-free, meaning you won’t have to lose 10%-20% of your payment to pay the “finder’s fee” associated with most other freelancing sites.

It’s also fast. It takes editors and proofreaders as little as a week to find their first clients on the freelancing site.

Bidding on jobs starts at $25 an hour, so there’s no scrounging for $5 gigs like there is with the other sites.

2. Upwork

Best for beginners

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Upwork is our top pick for editors and proofreaders just starting out in the industry.

It’s free to join and you receive 30 connections per month which you use as currency to apply to proofreading or editing jobs on the popular site.

A lot of the jobs are short-term or one-off gigs, making it an ideal place for you to try out editing for little to no risk if you’re not sure whether or not you want to pursue a career in the field.

You will have to “pay your dues,” so to speak, and work low-paying gigs at the beginning. But once you get some clients to leave positive reviews, you can raise your rates and start making serious cash with regular work.

• Read our Upwork review.

3. LinkedIn

Best for long-term connections

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LinkedIn is generally known as a sort of “career social media network,” and is a great find to create and foster long-term relationships with clients.

It’s a great place to find potential clients to sort of “cold email” with editing propositions. You can also keep up with old clients and reach out to them any time you notice work drying up or need some extra cash between gigs.

This is a great resource, especially for editors who have established a niche in the proofreading industry. Just make sure to keep your profile up-to-date with your availability and the services offered.

4. r/Copyediting

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Reddit is a valuable hub for editors and proofreaders, offering more than just job listings; it's a networking goldmine.

The r/copyediting subreddit is a reliable space to discover freelance gigs and seek advice.

While it might not have the organizational structure of larger platforms, it presents numerous freelancing opportunities within a smaller, less saturated community.

Many freelance editors successfully post their job-seeking status and receive responses. Users also frequently seek guidance and industry insights through questions and advice requests.

5. Flexjobs

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Flexjobs is a great resource for editors that features not only one-off clients looking for an editor for a single project but also clients looking for full-time editors.

All of their job postings are remote, which is essential for freelance editors who don’t want to go to the office.

They have a huge variety of gigs for proofreaders and editors to choose from, with filters for keywords to narrow down niches and locations for editors looking for gigs in their home countries.

6. Scribbr

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Want to focus on helping students succeed? Check out Scribbr.

Seen as the top editing site for academic writing, editors and proofreaders on Scribbr are largely satisfied with the work that they have found on the site.

Scribbr also offers editors one-on-one coaching from their expert team and gain exclusive access to educational resources through the Scribbr Academy.

All of that said, becoming a Scribbr editor is a rigorous process. First, you must ace a language quiz. Then, demonstrate your editing skills by refining a student's work within a 24-hour deadline. If you pass the test, you earn the prestigious title of a Scribbr editor.

7. Jobsforeditors

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If you have a formal education in linguistics or translation, Jobsforeditors.com is a great option to find a steady stream of well-paying work.

Though some reviews from freelance editors are mixed, most have a generally positive outlook on the company. Almost all would recommend working there to a friend.

Pay is iffy and they don’t list rates on their site, but the consistency of work is something that many proofreaders are looking for.

If you have the right degree and can pass their rigorous testing process, you can get regular work on the site.

How to Become a Freelance Editor/Proofreader

Want to become an editor? You’ll need to follow several steps.

First, develop your editing skills by pursuing relevant education or online courses. Get a deep understanding of grammar, punctuation, style guides, and editing software.

Next, practice your skills by offering to proofread or edit content for friends, and family, or on platforms like volunteer organizations or blogs. This will help you build a portfolio. This is also a good time to establish your niche and what type of editing you want to focus on.

Create an online presence by using platforms like LinkedIn to showcase your skills, abilities, and portfolio. Networking is crucial; join online editing and writing communities to connect with fellow professionals and potential clients.

To find work, explore freelancing platforms like Upwork, Contra, and Flexjobs, and create a profile. You can also seek opportunities on job boards and industry-specific websites.

Once you secure projects, consistently deliver high-quality work, meet deadlines, and communicate effectively with clients. Building a strong reputation for reliability and quality is essential for positive reviews as well as repeat business and referrals.

Finally, stay updated on industry trends, tools, and software to remain competitive in the ever-evolving editing and proofreading industry.

Benefits of Freelancing as an Editor/Proofreader

Not sold just yet? Maybe these benefits will change your mind.

Flexibility and Independence

Freelancing offers editors and proofreaders the freedom to set their own schedules. You can choose when and where you work, allowing for a better work-life balance and the ability to prioritize personal commitments.

Diverse Projects

Freelancing proofreaders and editors often work on various projects for different clients. This experience with diverse projects across different industries can help you develop a wide range of skills and knowledge, making you a more versatile and adaptable editor. It also keeps work interesting and prevents monotony.

Higher Earning Potential

Freelance editors have the potential to earn more compared to traditional salaried roles. As a freelancer, you have the ability to set your own rates and take on multiple clients at the same time, increasing your income. You can also benefit from negotiating higher rates as your skills and reputation grow.

Skill Growth and Learning

Freelancing exposes you to real-world challenges and client requirements, which can accelerate your learning and skill development. You'll encounter various technologies, tools, and approaches, pushing you to expand your knowledge and hone your skills.

Global Reach

Freelancing allows you to work with clients from around the world, broadening your professional network and introducing you to different cultures and writing styles. This global reach can lead to diverse and interesting projects while expanding your client base.

How to Choose the Right Freelance Website to Work For

When choosing the ideal freelance platform, assess your skills, experience, and availability carefully. It’s also important to consider the impact of platform service fees on your overall earnings.

For novice editors and proofreaders, we suggest beginning with a user-friendly, free account on platforms like Fiverr or Upwork to start building your resume.

As you accrue experience and enhance your expertise, explore more advanced, reputable sites like Scribbr or Jobsforproofreaders.com (if you meet their requirements.)

A huge advantage of freelancing platforms is the flexibility to create profiles on as many or as few sites as you desire, offering you a huge variety of work opportunities.

Best Freelance Websites by Category

Looking for more of the best freelance websites but need to browse by category? Check out our below freelance website reviews to either expand your portfolio or hire a freelancer for your next project.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get a job as a freelance editor?

To get a job as a freelance editor, build your skills, create a profile on a freelancing platform, grow your reputation, and build a strong client base for consistent work.

How much does a freelance editor make?

Freelance editors make around $55,000 annually in the US, or $25-$100 per hour.

Are freelance editors in demand?

Freelance editors in niches like news, politics, and social media are currently in demand.

How do I become a freelance editor with no experience?

To become a freelance editor with no experience, start by building your skills through online courses or self-study, offering free editing services to friends, or volunteering for projects. Create an online presence showcasing your expertise, and gradually take on paid projects to build a portfolio and gain experience.