Freelance data entry from home

Small businesses, contractors, medical and law offices, real estate agents, nonprofits and online sellers who lack time to keep records up to date.

Hourly rate, a per-project fee or a price per record or per page. Repeat monthly clients such as bookkeeping or invoice backlogs give steadier income.

• Fast, accurate typing
• Spreadsheet skills (Excel or Google Sheets)
• Attention to detail
• Keeping client information confidential

• Scam job offers that ask you to pay upfront or cash checks, real clients should never ask for this
• Confidential data: use a signed agreement and check what security the client expects, especially for medical or financial records
• Check whether your city or county requires a business license, and whether you need a home occupation permit or must follow HOA or lease rules
• Report your income to the IRS and set money aside for self-employment taxes
• Consider professional liability insurance if you handle sensitive client records

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around $0 to $800, depending on whether you already own a reliable computer, spreadsheet software and any insurance you choose to add. Many people start with equipment they already have.

Monthly revenue is estimated at typically around $300 to $2,500, depending on how many hours you work, the clients you win and whether you charge by the hour or by project.

Watch for scam offers that ask you to pay upfront or cash checks, since real clients should not. Use a signed agreement for confidential data, and check city or county business license, home occupation permit, HOA or lease rules. Report income to the IRS.