Updated Feb. 7, 2025.
If you're looking for a flexible way to earn money from home, transcription with CastingWords could be a great option.
This U.S.-based transcription company, established in 2005, hires freelancers worldwide to transcribe audio files.
What is CastingWords?
CastingWords is a well-known transcription service that provides transcription and editing services to clients.
They offer remote, flexible work to freelancers, so this is a great choice if you need a flexible extra money option. You would not want to rely solely on CastingWords to pay your bills, but it might be nice to have access to.
What Does a CastingWords Transcriptionist Do?
As a CastingWords transcriptionist, you will:
- Listen to audio files and transcribe them into text
- Edit and improve transcriptions for accuracy
- Follow the company's style guide to ensure high-quality work
Requirements to Work for CastingWords
- Good listening and typing skills
- Strong English grammar and punctuation knowledge
- A reliable internet connection
- Ability to pass the initial transcription test
- No special software or foot pedal required, but they can be helpful
Pay and Payment Process
CastingWords pays freelancers based on the complexity and quality of their work.
Pay rates typically range from $0.30 to $1 per audio minute, though bonuses for high-quality work can push earnings above $1 per audio minute.
As you might have guessed, this is on the low side for transcription jobs.
Your work gets graded, and higher grades naturally mean better pay. Payments are sent via PayPal every Friday, and you must have at least $1 earned to request a payment.
Application Process
Applying to work for CastingWords is simple:
- Visit CastingWords' Application Page
- Sign up and complete the transcription test
- Wait for approval (usually takes a few days)
- Once you're approved, you can start choosing transcription jobs and earning money
Note: As of recent updates, applicants from Rhode Island are not eligible to work for CastingWords.
Tips for Success at CastingWords
Make sure you carefully read and follow the CastingWords style guide to ensure your accuracy is on point, and you get higher ratings (better pay).
Also, even though it's not required, noise-canceling headphones may really help you out! Most professional transcribers wouldn't be without them.
Want to Know More About Work at Home Transcription and How to Get Started?
If you don't know a lot about transcribing from home, I recommend Transcription Foundations – a free 7-lesson mini-course that teaches you all about general transcription, how much you can earn, where to find work, and more!
The course is entirely go at your own pace, and you'll receive details via your email!
You can go at your own pace with this and do the lessons as you have time, all at home from your computer.
Go here to learn more about what the free course offers.

Anna Thurman is a work at home blogger and mom of two. She has been researching and reviewing remote jobs for over 14 years. Her findings are published weekly here at Real Ways to Earn.