Do you love reading books and have a knack for narrating? What if you get paid to read books online? Many people are discovering the joy and financial benefits of getting paid to read books. Whether you’re a seasoned voice actor or simply enjoy reading aloud, there are websites that pay you to read books and help you monetize your talent.

The demand for audiobooks and voice-over services has surged in recent years, leading to numerous opportunities to get paid to read books aloud, even for the Gen Z group.

From the comfort of your home, you can explore websites to read books and get paid, enabling you to earn a decent income while indulging in your love for literature.

In this article, I explore how you can get paid to read books at home, the potential earnings, and the top 25 websites that pay you just to read books.

How Much Will You Get Paid to Read Books?

When considering how to get paid to read books, it’s important to understand the potential earnings.

Different platforms offer varying rates based on factors such as the length of the book, your experience, and the project’s complexity.

Here are a few examples to consider:

• ACX: Audible’s Audiobook Creation Exchange (ACX) is a popular platform where narrators can earn royalties or a flat rate. Narrators can earn between $100 to $500 per finished hour, depending on their experience and the book’s length.
• Findaway Voices: This platform connects narrators with authors and publishers. Narrators typically earn around $150 to $400 per finished hour.
• Voices.com: A marketplace for voice-over talent, Voices.com offers various projects, including audiobook narration. Payment varies widely, from $100 to $1,000 per project.
• Brilliance Audio: As a part of Amazon, Brilliance Audio hires narrators for its audiobooks. Rates can range from $200 to $400 per finished hour.
• BeeAudio: This company specializes in audiobooks and offers competitive rates, usually between $100 to $300 per finished hour.

How to Get Paid to Read Books

Getting paid to read books involves various payment methods, each with its own benefits. When you get paid to read books at home, it’s crucial to choose a legitimate and convenient payment method.

Here are some common payment options you can expect to find:

• PayPal: One of the most popular online payment methods, PayPal is widely accepted and provides quick and secure transactions. It allows narrators to receive payments from clients globally.
• Direct Deposit: Many companies offer direct deposit, transferring your earnings directly to your bank account. This method is convenient and reliable, ensuring you get paid on time.
• Check: While less common, some companies still offer payment via check. It’s a slower method but can be useful if you prefer traditional banking.
• Royalties: Platforms like ACX offer royalty payments, where narrators earn a percentage of the audiobook’s sales. This method can be lucrative if the book becomes popular.
• Escrow Services: For freelancers, escrow services like Escrow.com ensure secure payments by holding funds until both parties fulfill their obligations.

Each payment method has its advantages, and choosing the right one depends on your preferences and the company’s offerings.

The 25 Websites That Pay ‘Decent’ Money to Read Books Online

With numerous opportunities to get paid to read books aloud, let’s dive into 25 websites that pay you to read books.

Each platform offers unique features and benefits, making it easier for you to find the right fit.

1. ACX

ACX, a part of Audible, is a leading platform connecting narrators with authors and publishers. It offers two payment options: a one-time payment or a royalty share. ACX provides narrators with the tools to produce high-quality audiobooks and earn competitive rates.

Signup link: ACX

2. Findaway Voices

Findaway Voices offers narrators opportunities to work with various authors and publishers. The platform supports multiple languages and genres, providing a diverse range of projects. Payments are made per finished hour, ensuring you get compensated for your work.

Signup link: Findaway Voices

3. Voices.com

Voices.com is a marketplace for voice-over talent, including audiobook narrators. It connects you with clients worldwide, offering various projects with different payment structures. The platform provides tools to create a professional profile and showcase your skills.

Signup link: Voices.com

4. Brilliance Audio

As part of Amazon, Brilliance Audio hires narrators for its vast collection of audiobooks. The company offers competitive rates and opportunities to work on high-profile projects. Narrators must have experience and a high-quality recording setup.

Signup link: Brilliance Audio

5. BeeAudio

BeeAudio specializes in producing audiobooks and seeks talented narrators for various projects. The company values quality and professionalism, offering fair compensation for your work. BeeAudio provides support and resources to help narrators succeed.

Signup link: BeeAudio

6. Spoken Realms

Spoken Realms focuses on producing classic literature audiobooks. The platform offers opportunities for both experienced and novice narrators, providing training and support. Payments are typically per finished hour, with rates varying based on the project.

Signup link: Spoken Realms

7. Voice123

Voice123 is a freelance marketplace for voice-over work, including audiobook narration. The platform allows narrators to set their rates and bid on projects. It offers flexibility and the chance to build a diverse portfolio.

Signup link: Voice123

8. The Voices

The Voices offers a variety of voice-over projects, including audiobooks. The platform provides tools to create a professional profile and connect with clients. Payments vary based on the project and your experience level.

Signup link: The Voices

9. Voice Crafters

Voice Crafters is a global marketplace for voice-over talent, including audiobook narrators. The platform offers competitive rates and opportunities to work on diverse projects. It provides support and resources to help narrators succeed.

Signup link: Voice Crafters

10. PeoplePerHour

PeoplePerHour is a freelance marketplace that offers various voice-over projects, including audiobooks. Narrators can create profiles, set rates, and bid on projects. The platform provides flexibility and the opportunity to build a diverse portfolio.

Signup link: PeoplePerHour

11. Upwork

Upwork is a well-known freelance platform that offers numerous voice-over projects, including audiobook narration. Narrators can create profiles, showcase their skills, and bid on projects. The platform provides secure payment methods and support.

Read: 51 Amazing Freelance Writing Jobs from Home

Signup link: Upwork

12. Fiverr

Fiverr is a popular freelance marketplace that offers various voice-over services, including audiobook narration. Narrators can create profiles, set rates, and offer services to clients worldwide. The platform provides flexibility and the opportunity to build a diverse portfolio.

Signup link: Fiverr

13. Freelancer

Freelancer is a global freelance platform that offers numerous voice-over projects, including audiobook narration. Narrators can create profiles, bid on projects, and receive payments securely. The platform provides flexibility and the chance to build a diverse portfolio.

Signup link: Freelancer

14. Narrator’s Roadmap

Narrator’s Roadmap is a platform dedicated to helping narrators succeed in the audiobook industry. It offers resources, training, and job opportunities. Narrators can connect with authors and publishers and receive fair compensation for their work.

Signup link: Narrator’s Roadmap

15. New Fiction

New Fiction specializes in producing audiobooks for contemporary fiction. The platform offers opportunities for both experienced and novice narrators, providing training and support. Payments are typically per finished hour, with rates varying based on the project.

Signup link: New Fiction

16. Iambik Audiobooks

Iambik Audiobooks produces high-quality audiobooks and seeks talented narrators for various projects. The company values quality and professionalism, offering fair compensation for your work. Iambik provides support and resources to help narrators succeed.

Signup link: Iambik Audiobooks

17. Spoken Freely

Spoken Freely focuses on producing audiobooks for a wide range of genres. The platform offers opportunities for both experienced and novice narrators, providing training and support. Payments are typically per finished hour, with rates varying based on the project.

Signup link: Spoken Freely

18. Voice Jungle

Voice Jungle offers a variety of voice-over projects, including audiobooks. The platform provides tools to create a professional profile and connect with clients. Payments vary based on the project and your experience level.

Signup link: Voice Jungle

19. Voices Now

Voices Now is a global marketplace for voice-over talent, including audiobook narrators. The platform offers competitive rates and opportunities to work on diverse projects. It provides support and resources to help narrators succeed.

Signup link: Voices Now

20. Bookrepublic

Bookrepublic specializes in producing audiobooks for various genres. The platform offers opportunities for both experienced and novice narrators, providing training and support. Payments are typically per finished hour, with rates varying based on the project.

Signup link: Bookrepublic

21. Learning Ally

Learning Ally is a nonprofit organization that produces audiobooks for students with learning disabilities. The platform offers opportunities for narrators to make a difference while earning fair compensation. Learning Ally provides training and support to help narrators succeed.

Signup link: Learning Ally

22. ListenUp Audiobooks

ListenUp Audiobooks is a professional audiobook production company that works with independent authors and publishers. The platform offers opportunities for narrators to work on a wide range of genres, from fiction to non-fiction.

The company values high-quality productions and provides support to ensure professional standards are met.

Narrators at ListenUp Audiobooks are typically paid per finished hour, with rates depending on the project’s complexity and the narrator’s experience. This platform is a great choice for those looking to gain experience in the audiobook industry and work on diverse projects.

Signup link: ListenUp Audiobooks

23. Librivox

Librivox is a volunteer-driven platform that produces free audiobooks of public domain works. While it doesn’t offer payment, it provides valuable experience and exposure for novice narrators. Librivox is a great way to build your portfolio and gain confidence.

Signup link: Librivox

24. VoiceBunny

VoiceBunny is a marketplace for voice-over talent, including audiobook narrators. The platform connects narrators with clients and offers competitive rates. VoiceBunny provides tools to create a professional profile and showcase your skills.

Signup link: VoiceBunny

25. The Online Recording Studio

The Online Recording Studio offers various voice-over projects, including audiobooks. The platform provides tools to create a professional profile and connect with clients. Payments vary based on the project and your experience level.

Signup link: The Online Recording Studio

Is it Worth it to Read Books Online for Pay?

The allure of getting paid to read books online is undeniable, especially for book enthusiasts. However, whether it is worth pursuing this opportunity depends on several factors, including your skills, commitment, and expectations.

Also read: Remote Jobs for Women

Pros of Reading Books Online for Pay

• Monetizing a Passion: If you love reading and have a knack for narration, this can be an enjoyable way to earn money. You get to immerse yourself in literature while getting compensated for your time and effort.
• Flexibility: Many platforms allow you to work from home and set your own schedule. This flexibility is ideal for those looking to balance other commitments, such as a full-time job or family responsibilities.
• Building a Portfolio: For aspiring voice actors or narrators, reading books online can help you build a diverse portfolio. This experience can be invaluable if you aim to pursue a career in voice-over work or audiobooks.
• Supplemental Income: Even if it doesn’t become your primary source of income, getting paid to read books can be a great way to supplement your earnings.

Cons of Reading Books Online for Pay

• Initial Investment: High-quality recording equipment and a soundproof space are essential for professional narration. The initial investment can be significant if you don’t already have these resources.
• Competition: The field can be competitive, with many aspiring narrators vying for the same opportunities. Building a reputation and securing consistent work can take time.
• Variable Pay: Earnings can vary widely depending on the platform, project, and experience level. Some projects may pay well, while others might offer minimal compensation.
• Time-Consuming: Narrating a book is time-consuming. It involves not only reading but also editing and producing a high-quality audio file. The time investment can be substantial, especially for longer books.

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Is It Worth It?

Ultimately, whether it is worth it to read books online for pay depends on your personal circumstances and goals. If you are passionate about books and narration, and you are willing to invest in the necessary equipment and time, it can be a fulfilling and profitable venture.

It can also be a valuable stepping stone for those aspiring to work in the broader voice-over industry.

For many, the joy of turning a beloved hobby into a source of income outweighs the challenges. However, it’s important to go into this field with realistic expectations and a willingness to put in the necessary effort to succeed.

If you approach it as both a passion project and a business, reading books online for pay can be a rewarding endeavor.

Related: How to Become a Voice Actor with No Experience

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Do I need professional equipment to get paid to read books?

A: Yes, having high-quality recording equipment is essential for producing clear and professional-sounding audiobooks. Invest in a good microphone, headphones, and soundproofing materials.

Q: Can I get paid to read books if I have no experience?

A: Many platforms offer opportunities for novice narrators. Start with volunteer projects or smaller gigs to build your portfolio and gain experience.

Q: How do I choose the right platform to get paid to read books?

A: Consider factors such as payment rates, project availability, and the platform’s reputation. Research each platform and read reviews from other narrators to make an informed decision.

Q: How long does it take to get paid after completing a project?

A: Payment timelines vary by platform. Some platforms offer immediate payments upon project completion, while others may have a delay of a few weeks. Ensure you understand the payment terms before starting a project.

Conclusion

Turning your passion for reading into a profitable endeavor is possible with the right opportunities. By exploring these websites that pay you to read books, you can find the perfect platform to start your journey.

Whether you’re a seasoned narrator or just starting, there’s a place for you in the world of audiobook narration.

Take the first step, choose a platform, and begin your adventure to get paid to read books.