RATES

I’m a huge believer in keeping things simple. A lot of proofreaders and copyeditors will charge different hourly rates for different types of editing (you can read about the different kinds of editing here and about the minimum per hour charges suggested by the Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading here).

But, as I said, I like to keep things simple. I charge a standard hourly rate of £30 for each type of editing up to 5,000 words but depending on what level is required, more time is taken, and the final invoice will reflect that. So, for example, copyediting can take up to 20% longer than proofreading a document, and a substantive edit or rewrite will take up to 20% longer than copyediting.

For large projects – 5,000+ words – the following rates apply:

Proofreading:              £20 per 1,000 words

Copyediting:                £25 per 1,000 words

Substantive editing:   £30 per 1,000 words

In all instances, a more precise costing can be made from a sample page or two.

For Virtual Assistant support, I have two options for you.

My ad hoc hourly rate is £30 and is charged by the minute. You only pay for what you use. I track my time, and a log is included with my invoices. Or, to guarantee you a set number of hours per week or month, you can choose from the following four retainer packages:

A good audio typist can type upwards of 70-80 words a minute – and I’m very good! A good transcriptionist can take up to an hour to transcribe 15 minutes of audio IF the recording is clear, with a maximum of two people talking. More people talking, less clarity in the recording, it takes longer to do. Each recording is listened to at least twice. Each document is then formatted, inaudible speech is highlighted, and time-stamped if required.

I charge an hourly rate of £20 for this service, and all proofreading and formatting is free of charge.

What does all this mean for you? I don't need costly office space, equipment, supplies or software (or tea, coffee & kettle), and I come with years of administrative experience. I’m happy to sign a contract that protects both your business and mine.

You don’t employ me, so saving all those employment costs to you on top of paying a salary, holiday pay and other benefits.

Payment for all work is due when each project is completed or, if on a retainer, on a monthly basis, in advance.

All invoices are itemised and emailed monthly or on completion of work, whichever comes soonest. Any additional costs incurred include postage, printing, phone calls, special materials or mileage are itemised separately on the invoice.

Payment terms are strictly seven (7) working days via bank transfer. For retainer packages, payment for each month is due in advance and invoices will be delivered accordingly. For new clients, a 50% deposit may be required before work commences.

Clients must sign a service agreement before work commences.

Confidentiality is, of course, of paramount importance. My service agreement includes a confidentiality clause and I will always sign if you have your own agreement.

I check work thoroughly before submitting it to the client, but do please note that it is the client’s responsibility to proofread and check all completed and returned work.