Work at Home Job Facts: Data Entry

Get Paid to Type or Transcribe at Home

Do you enjoy helping others? Do you type at least 60 words per minute? Do you have pockets of quiet time available to focus on a project? Then, you may want to consider employment with a data entry service.

This growing field of opportunity for the at-home worker typically involves entering form information into a database or transcribing documents for clients. Data entry companies offer a range of flexible opportunities allowing you to work as little as an hour a day to full-time-plus hours each week.

Requirements: These jobs require you have motivation, excellent writing skills, basic computer knowledge, the ability to type quickly (the faster you type, the quicker you finish assignment, the more you earn!) and the ability to focus on details.

Equipment: Data Entry equipment needs will include having access to a computer with Internet access. General computer essentials (such as room on your hard drive, or a fast processor speed) that will be specific to the client's software requirements. Speed of Internet access is also helpful as many assignments will be uploaded to the company using online access, so investing in cable or DSL access may be a necessity.

Pay: Typical pay for an at-home Data Entry ranges from $5-$10 per hour. With incentive programs, $11-$20, and upwards, may be possible.

Many assignments are paid out on per-entry fee. For example, entries may pay 5 cents each. 1000 entries would then pay $50.

Data Entry work is very competitive as some companies outsource outside the United States where accepted wages may be lower. Be sure to sign up with a number of companies and explore all opportunities before committing to a pay rate.

Benefits: Key benefits to the position are flexible hours, convenience of working at home, and free training programs offered by data entry companies. Drawbacks may include no benefits (ie: health insurance, holiday pay, overtime) and the repetitive nature of the job.

Job Opportunities: If the above information suits your needs and you are interested in beginning an at-home career in Data Entry, you may wish to consult the following list of employers for job listings: