Textbroker

Textbroker is a freelance writing website that essentially works as a middleman between clients and writers.  Each writer is given an initial rating that ranges from 2 to 5 and dictates the amount of assignments that are available. One thing I like about this company is that there are a plethora of topics to choose from once you have established a decent rating of 3 or more. Another good thing about Textbroker is that even if you get a low initial rating, you can improve and raise it by producing high quality content for clients. 

The payment structure works by paying writers anywhere from $0.01 to $0.05 per word. Like most other companies, Textbroker pays its writers via PayPal and payments are made around the 10th of each month. Each writer must also complete a W-9 form and accrue at least $10 of earnings before getting paid. 

When compared to other freelance writing sites, earnings from Textbroker are on the low side. While I wouldn't recommend this site for seasoned freelancers, it can serve newbies well who are trying to break into the industry. In fact, Textbroker can be a good place to build your portfolio and establish your reputation as a solid writer. 

So if you're new to freelance writing, I would suggest giving Textbroker a try. Even if your earnings are limited at first, it could help you with building your resume and landing other gigs in the future. Along with this, the application process is rather straightforward and easier to pass than many other websites. 

Click here to check out the author's FAQs

Click here to apply for a writing position at Textbroker

WiseGeek

I have been writing for WiseGeek for almost a year and it has turned out to be a nice source of income. The thing I like most about WiseGeek is that there is almost always 500 plus assignments that can be taken at any time. While I predominately write about business and career topics, there are numerous topics to choose from that run the gambit from home improvement to medical information. Each article is required to be 400 or more words and pays anywhere from $10 to $14.

The payment system works by a copy editor reviewing your work after you have completed a batch of at least five articles. Once each article has been approved, you receive your payment. In contrast to other freelance sites that make you wait for up to a month, this type of payment is a major plus.

As of January 2012, WiseGeek has stopped creating new articles and has chosen to upgrade their existing database by adding pictures and videos to each article. As far as I know, they are only sticking with existing writers for the time being, but may bring on new writers for the transition. WiseGeek's application process is somewhat lengthy as they require you to complete several articles before hiring you on. However, you do still earn the normal pay rate for these initial articles.

I know that their new positions entail working either as a video curator, photo curator or performing general edits and optimizing existing articles. From what I've heard, the amount of money earned per assignment will be similar to the previous earnings each writer was making.

Personally, I have enjoyed working for WiseGeek and have gotten much better at fine tuning my writing and have seen an overall improvement in my writing abilities. A good thing about WiseGeek is that each writer is given a personal copy editor to work with exclusively. Unlike other sites I've written for with random copy editors, you get consistent feedback from only one person which helps prevent frustration and enhance your writing.

Click here to go to the WiseGeek application page