Updated April 28, 2025.
If you're looking for a flexible way to earn money from home, Quicktate might catch your attention!
Quicktate is a transcription company that types out voicemail messages, legal files, medical reports, letters, phone calls, and other audio recordings.
Their sister company, iDictate, handles longer files that aren't voicemails. Some files are just a few minutes long, while others can be much longer, like conference calls.
Besides transcription, Quicktate also offers services like summarizing, analyzing, and evaluating audio files. If you are good at typing and paying close attention to detail, this could be a fun way to make extra cash!
Who Can Apply To Quicktate?
Quicktate is looking for people who are reliable, honest, and professional.
You need to have your own equipment, like a computer, a headset, and good speakers. You also need a quiet place to work.
They expect accurate spelling, proper punctuation, and the ability to follow instructions carefully.
You must be able to listen closely and type exactly what you hear.
It's important to know that if you have ever been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor, you are not allowed to apply.
If you can't pass a background check, you do have options for remote work where a background check isn't conducted.
Quicktate hires independent contractors, so you set your own schedule. You can work as much or as little as you want since they are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
How Quicktate Works
First, you need to create an account and take a few tests. You’ll need to complete a typing quiz for each specialty you're interested in, like English transcription or medical transcription.
If you score high enough, you might also get the chance to work with iDictate, where the files are longer.
Before you can get started, you have to pass a quiz to show you understand Quicktate's rules and expectations.
If you pass the quiz and typing tests, Quicktate will run the aforementioned background check. You have to pay $20 for this check using PayPal or a credit card.
Once you're approved to start typing files, you can log in anytime and choose your jobs.
Most files are short, so it’s easy to pick up a few tasks whenever you have some free time. You can accept or reject assignments as you wish.
Fortunately, there’s no pressure to work certain hours or complete a set number of files.
Is It Full-Time Income?
It’s important to understand that Quicktate is not a full-time job. They do not guarantee a steady flow of work. Some days there might be lots of files to transcribe, and other days there might be nothing.
I do have list of full-time work at home jobs that are hiring now if that is what you need instead.
Most people use Quicktate as a way to earn a little extra cash on the side. It is perfect if you want something low-pressure and part-time. However, if you need a reliable paycheck to pay your bills, this probably is not the right fit.
How Much Does Quicktate Pay?
Quicktate pays per word, not per hour. Rates vary a little depending on the type of file you are working on.
For example, voicemail messages usually pay one cent for every four words. Other files may pay slightly more.
This means the faster and more accurately you type, the more money you can make.
If you are just starting out or if the audio is hard to hear, your pay might seem low at first. But with practice, you can get quicker and earn a little more.
It’s also important to know that you are responsible for your own expenses since you are considered an independent contractor. This includes things like internet costs, computer repairs, and any equipment you need.
What Are the Glassdoor Reviews Like?
Glassdoor reviews for Quicktate are mixed, but not terrible. Some workers like the flexibility and the easy extra income. They enjoy being able to work whenever they want without having to deal with a boss.
However, others mention that the pay is very low, especially when factoring in time spent on harder-to-hear audio. Some people say that there are long dry spells with no work available, making it difficult to depend on it as a regular source of income.
A few reviewers also talk about the cost of the background check being annoying, but most understand that it's common for transcription companies to require it, especially when sensitive data is being handled.
Overall, if you view Quicktate as a simple way to earn pocket money rather than a serious job, you are more likely to have a positive experience.
You can read the Glassdoor reviews for yourself if you'd like.
How to Sign Up
If you think Quicktate sounds right for you, the signup process is pretty simple. Here are the basic steps:
- Visit the Quicktate application page and create a typist account. Be sure to save your username and password.
- Agree to their confidentiality agreement, code of ethics, and other important policies.
- Take the required typing quizzes and the Quicktate rules quiz.
- Provide three references who are not family members.
- Pay $20 for a background check after passing the tests.
Once all of that is complete and your background check is clear, you will be ready to accept assignments!
In Conclusion
Quicktate is a nice little opportunity if you enjoy typing and want a flexible way to make extra money. It is not a full-time job, and the pay is on the lower side.
But if you keep your expectations realistic, it can be a fun and easy way to earn a little spending money.
Plus, you never know what interesting files you might get to transcribe! If you have some free time and like the idea of working from home, Quicktate could be worth a try.
If you like the idea of transcribing overall, I have a large list of companies that hire transcribers here (many of which pay better than Quicktate).
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! Everything is done 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.