CastingWords is a long-running transcription service where freelancers pick jobs from a shared Workshop. Pay ranges from about 8.5 cents to a little over $1 per audio minute, depending on the job type, your level and the grade you earn. Most jobs are bonus-based: better work earns more, and rejected work earns nothing. Payments go out through PayPal every Friday.
At a glance
| What it is | Transcription Workshop for freelancers |
| Pay range | About $0.085 to over $1 per audio minute |
| Grading | 0 to 4 unpaid, 5 base pay, up to 3x for grade 9 |
| Payouts | Weekly via PayPal, every Friday |
| Minimum payout | $1 |
| Eligibility | Supported US states |
How it works
You create a free contractor account, pass the required assessments and start choosing jobs from the Workshop. Every bonus-based job shows the exact pay for each possible grade before you accept it. After you submit, your work is graded and paid accordingly.
How grading affects pay
Work graded 0 to 4 is rejected and not paid. A grade of 5 earns the base pay, 6 earns 1.5 times, 7 earns 2 times, 8 earns 2.5 times and 9 earns 3 times the base. That’s why accuracy matters so much here: the gap between a 5 and a 9 is the gap between low pay and decent pay.
Levels and better jobs
As you complete work with good grades, you earn levels and qualifications that unlock editing and higher-paid tasks. Newer workers see fewer jobs, and good files can disappear quickly because everyone sees the same queue.
Getting paid
CastingWords pays through PayPal every Friday, with a $1 minimum.
Eligibility
CastingWords accepts contractors in supported US states; at least one state, Rhode Island, has been excluded. Check eligibility before you apply.
Common mistakes
New workers often take files they can’t finish to a high standard, which risks an unpaid rejection. Preview the audio, choose files you can do well and follow the style guide closely.
Getting started
Sign up, read the guidelines, pass the assessments and start with short, clear files. Aim for consistent high grades before taking longer or harder work.
Is it worth it?
As flexible side work for accurate transcribers, yes. Beginners should expect low pay until their grades and levels rise.
Choosing files
Preview each file before claiming it. Clear audio with one or two speakers is where you’re most likely to earn a high grade; heavy accents, cross-talk and background noise are where rejections happen.
Equipment
Good headphones and a quiet space are essential. Keyboard shortcuts for playback help you keep pace on longer files.
Taxes
As an independent contractor in the US, you’re self-employed and responsible for your own tax reporting.
Tracking your real rate
Note the time each job takes and the grade you earn. Over a few weeks you’ll see which file types bring high grades and good pay for your time.
Moving up
Higher levels open editing and review tasks, which can pay more. Consistent top grades are the way there.
Owen’s take
CastingWords rewards accuracy more than speed. If you’re careful by nature, the grading system works in your favour.
Who it suits
It suits meticulous US-based transcribers who want zero-minimum, pick-your-own work. It suits less well anyone uncomfortable with unpaid rejections.
Similar options
- Rev pays weekly with several roles.
- TranscribeMe splits audio into short clips.
- GoTranscript hires worldwide.
- Transcribe Anywhere teaches transcription skills.
More options are in Transcribing.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Up to 3x base pay for top grades
- Weekly PayPal payouts, $1 minimum
- No minimum hours
Cons
- Rejected work isn’t paid
- Low base pay for beginners
- Limited to supported US states
FAQ
How much does CastingWords pay?
About 8.5 cents to over $1 per audio minute, depending on job, level and grade.
How does grading affect pay?
Grade 5 earns base pay, rising to 3x base at grade 9; grades 0 to 4 aren’t paid.
When does CastingWords pay?
Every Friday via PayPal.
What’s the minimum payout?
$1.
Who can work for CastingWords?
Contractors in supported US states.
