Online Typing Jobs in Kenya: Complete Guide to Earning KES 20,000-80,000 Monthly from Home

Sarah from Nakuru was retrenched from her secretarial job in March 2025. With rent due and two children to feed, she couldn’t afford to wait months for another office job. A friend mentioned online typing jobs, but Sarah was skeptical. “Is it real? Will they actually pay me?” she wondered.

Three months later, Sarah was earning KES 45,000 monthly from her one-bedroom apartment, typing from her old laptop. No boss. No commute. No office politics. Just her, her keyboard, and clients from around the world who needed typing work done.

If you’re searching for online typing jobs in Kenya, you’re probably in a similar situation. Maybe you’re unemployed, underemployed, or just tired of the daily grind. Perhaps you’re a student looking for part-time income, or a stay-at-home parent who needs flexibility.

The good news? Online typing jobs are among the most accessible beginner online jobs Kenya has to offer. You don’t need a degree, special training, or years of experience. If you can type and understand basic English, you can start earning within days.

But here’s what nobody tells you: not all typing jobs are legitimate. Some are outright scams designed to steal your money. Others pay so little that you’d earn more selling mandazis on the street.

This guide will show you exactly which typing jobs from home Kenya actually pay, how much you can realistically earn, and how to avoid the scams that have cost thousands of Kenyans their hard-earned money.

What Are Online Typing Jobs?

Online typing jobs are remote work opportunities where you get paid to type. Simple as that. Someone gives you work that involves typing—whether it’s transcribing audio, entering data into spreadsheets, typing documents, or converting images to text—and you get paid per task or per hour.

These fall under the broader category of data entry jobs Kenya, but typing jobs specifically focus on keyboard work rather than complex data analysis.

The beauty of typing jobs is their simplicity. You don’t need to:

• Attend interviews in person
• Commute to an office
• Have advanced computer skills
• Own expensive equipment
• Have a university degree

You just need a device with a keyboard, internet connection, and the ability to type accurately.

Types of Online Typing Jobs Available in Kenya

Let me break down the main categories of typing work you can do from home:

1. Audio Transcription

You listen to audio recordings (interviews, meetings, podcasts, videos) and type out exactly what you hear.

What it involves: Converting spoken words to written text, including timestamps, speaker labels, and proper formatting.

Difficulty Level: Medium (requires good listening skills and accuracy)

Average Pay: KES 200-800 per audio hour (one hour of audio might take 3-4 hours to transcribe)

2. General Data Entry

Typing information from one format into another—like moving data from paper forms into Excel, copying product details into databases, or updating customer records.

What it involves: Copy-pasting, formatting, organizing data in spreadsheets or databases.

Difficulty Level: Easy (perfect for beginners)

Average Pay: KES 50-300 per hour of work

3. Captioning and Subtitling

Adding captions or subtitles to videos. Similar to transcription but requires syncing text with video timing.

What it involves: Watching videos, typing dialogue, and timing captions to match speech.

Difficulty Level: Medium (requires timing accuracy)

Average Pay: KES 300-1,000 per video hour

4. Medical or Legal Transcription

Specialized transcription for healthcare or legal professionals. Requires understanding of terminology.

What it involves: Transcribing doctor’s notes, legal proceedings, medical reports.

Difficulty Level: Hard (requires specialized training)

Average Pay: KES 800-2,500 per audio hour

5. Copy Typing

Simply retyping documents from PDFs, images, or scanned documents into Word or Google Docs.

What it involves: Accurate retyping with proper formatting.

Difficulty Level: Very Easy

Average Pay: KES 100-500 per document (depending on length)

6. Form Filling

Filling out online forms with information provided by clients.

What it involves: Data entry into web forms, surveys, or online applications.

Difficulty Level: Very Easy

Average Pay: KES 20-100 per form

Why Typing Jobs Are Perfect for Kenyan Beginners

Online typing jobs have become some of the most popular simple online jobs Kenya offers, and for good reason:

No Experience Required: Unlike programming or graphic design, you can start typing jobs immediately without months of training.

Low Barrier to Entry: A basic smartphone or computer is enough. You don’t need expensive software or equipment.

Flexible Schedule: Work when you want—morning, afternoon, night, or weekends. Perfect for students, parents, or anyone with irregular schedules.

Quick Payments: Most platforms pay within 7-14 days, with some offering weekly payments.

English Practice: If you’re working to improve your English, typing jobs provide constant practice.

Stepping Stone: Many successful freelancers started with typing jobs before moving to higher-paying work like writing or virtual assistance.

Work-Life Balance: No commute means more time with family and zero transport costs.

The Kenyan market is particularly well-positioned for typing jobs because:

• English is an official language
• High literacy rates compared to other African nations
• Growing internet infrastructure
• M-Pesa integration makes receiving payments easier
• Time zone overlap with Europe and partial overlap with North America

Requirements to Start Online Typing Jobs in Kenya

Let’s be practical about what you actually need to get started:

Essential Equipment

A Device:

• Laptop or desktop computer (recommended)
• Smartphone with at least 2GB RAM (possible but slower)
• Tablet with Bluetooth keyboard (works for some jobs)

For serious typing work, invest in a laptop. You can find decent used laptops for KES 15,000-25,000 that will serve you well.

Internet Connection:

• Home WiFi (best option)
• Mobile data (works fine, budget KES 1,000-2,000 monthly)
• Café WiFi or cyber café access (not ideal but possible)

Audio Equipment (for transcription):

• Headphones or earphones (KES 200-1,000)
• Good quality helps you hear audio clearly

Skills You Need

Typing Speed: Minimum 30-40 words per minute for most jobs. You can test your speed at typingtest.com or 10fastfingers.com.

Don’t worry if you’re slow now—speed improves with practice. Many beginners start at 25 WPM and reach 50+ WPM within months.

Basic English: Understanding written English and basic grammar. You don’t need perfect English, but you should understand what you’re typing.

Computer Literacy:

• Using Word or Google Docs
• Basic Excel or Google Sheets
• File management (saving, uploading, downloading)
• Email communication

Attention to Detail: Accuracy matters more than speed. A slow, accurate typist earns more than a fast, careless one.

Accounts You’ll Need

Payment Accounts:

• PayPal (most important—link to Equity Bank for withdrawals)
• M-Pesa (for local clients and some platforms)
• Bank account (Equity, KCB, or Co-op recommended)

Email: Professional Gmail address (not funnykevoh@gmail.com, but something like kevinmutua@gmail.com)

National ID: For identity verification on most platforms

12 Legit Platforms for Online Typing Jobs in Kenya

Let me give you verified platforms that actually pay Kenyan typists. I’ll be honest about the pros and cons of each.

1. Rev.com

Type of Work: Transcription, captioning, subtitling

How It Works: Sign up, pass a transcription test, then claim available jobs from the dashboard. You’re paid per audio minute transcribed.

Pay Rate: KES 80-120 per audio minute (approximately KES 4,800-7,200 per audio hour)

Payment Method: PayPal (every Monday for work completed the previous week)

Minimum Payout: $5 (approximately KES 650)

Pros:

• Always has available work
• Weekly payments
• Beginner-friendly
• Well-established company

Cons:

• Application test can be tough
• Pay is on the lower end
• Audio quality varies
• Must maintain quality metrics

Kenyan Experience: Many Kenyans work successfully on Rev. The application test rejects about 60% of applicants, so take your time and proofread carefully.

2. TranscribeMe

Type of Work: Transcription (short audio clips)

How It Works: Complete a training program, pass the exam, then transcribe 2-4 minute audio clips.

Pay Rate: KES 2,000-3,500 per audio hour (lower than Rev but clips are shorter)

Payment Method: PayPal (weekly)

Minimum Payout: $1 (approximately KES 130)

Pros:

• Short audio clips (easier to manage)
• Training provided
• Low minimum payout
• Work available 24/7

Cons:

• Lower pay rates
• Strict quality requirements
• Audio quality can be poor
• Intense competition for jobs

3. Scribie

Type of Work: Transcription

How It Works: Pass a test, then choose from available transcription jobs. Also offers proofreading jobs for experienced transcribers.

Pay Rate: KES 600-1,200 per audio hour (lower but good for beginners)

Payment Method: PayPal

Minimum Payout: $1 (approximately KES 130)

Pros:

• Very beginner-friendly
• Clean interface
• Always has work
• Quick payments

Cons:

• Lowest pay among transcription sites
• Files claimed quickly
• May need to refresh constantly

Kenyan Experience: Great starting point if you’re rejected by Rev or TranscribeMe. Build experience here, then move to higher-paying platforms.

4. Clickworker

Type of Work: Data entry, copy typing, form filling, research

How It Works: Create account, complete assessments, then access various micro-tasks including typing work.

Pay Rate: KES 50-500 per task (varies widely)

Payment Method: PayPal, SEPA (bank transfer)

Minimum Payout: €5 (approximately KES 700)

Pros:

• Variety of tasks
• No application test for basic tasks
• Flexible
• Regular work available

Cons:

• Pay per task can be very low
• Must qualify for each task type
• Some tasks pay better than others

5. GoTranscript

Type of Work: Transcription

How It Works: Pass a test (transcript + short audio), then claim jobs from the available work pool.

Pay Rate: KES 7,200 per audio hour (approximately $60)

Payment Method: PayPal, Payoneer (weekly)

Minimum Payout: $1 (approximately KES 130)

Pros:

• Higher pay than Rev or TranscribeMe
• Weekly payments
• Supportive community
• Detailed guidelines

Cons:

• Strict quality requirements
• Jobs claimed quickly
• Test is moderately difficult

Kenyan Experience: Popular among Kenyan transcribers for better rates. Set notifications to grab jobs when posted.

6. Upwork

Type of Work: All types of typing and data entry jobs from various clients

How It Works: Create a detailed profile, then bid on typing job postings. Clients hire you based on your profile, proposals, and rates.

Pay Rate: Negotiable (KES 200-1,000+ per hour depending on your experience)

Payment Method: PayPal, Payoneer, bank transfer, M-Pesa

Minimum Payout: No minimum (payment per contract)

Pros:

• Higher earning potential
• Build long-term client relationships
• Diverse job types
• Set your own rates

Cons:

• Takes time to land first clients
• Must compete with global freelancers
• Upwork takes 10-20% commission
• Requires strong profile and proposals

Tips for Success: Start with lower rates to build reviews, then gradually increase. Specialize in one type of typing (e.g., medical transcription) to stand out.

7. Fiverr

Type of Work: Offer typing services (transcription, data entry, copy typing)

How It Works: Create “gigs” (service listings) for typing work. Clients find and hire you.

Pay Rate: Set your own rates (starting from KES 650 per gig)

Payment Method: PayPal, Payoneer, bank transfer

Minimum Payout: $10 (approximately KES 1,300)

Pros:

• Passive client acquisition (they find you)
• Set your own prices
• Build a personal brand
• No bidding required

Cons:

• Takes time to get first orders
• Fiverr takes 20% commission
• Must compete with established sellers
• Need multiple gigs to succeed

Kenyan Success Tip: Offer something specific like “I will transcribe 10 minutes of Kenyan English audio” or “I will do data entry for Kenyan businesses.” The specificity attracts the right clients.

8. PeoplePerHour

Type of Work: Various data entry and typing projects

How It Works: Create profile, submit proposals to job listings, or create “hourlies” (service offerings).

Pay Rate: Negotiable (similar to Upwork)

Payment Method: PayPal, bank transfer

Pros:

• Less competitive than Upwork
• European clients (better rates)
• Hourlies feature is useful

Cons:

• Fewer jobs than Upwork
• 20% commission on first invoice with each client
• Needs strong portfolio

9. Freelancer.com

Type of Work: Typing, transcription, data entry projects

How It Works: Bid on projects posted by clients.

Pay Rate: Negotiable per project

Payment Method: PayPal, Payoneer, bank transfer

Pros:

• Many job postings
• Contests available (win projects)
• Mobile app available

Cons:

• Intense competition
• Platform can be overwhelming
• Some low-quality clients

10. DataPlus+

Type of Work: Data entry, form filling

How It Works: Apply for account, get approved, receive data entry tasks via email.

Pay Rate: KES 30-200 per form

Payment Method: Bank transfer, M-Pesa

Pros:

• Kenya-specific platform
• M-Pesa payments
• Simple work

Cons:

• Inconsistent work availability
• Lower pay
• Less established

11. Remote.co

Type of Work: Job board with remote typing and data entry positions

How It Works: Browse job listings, apply directly to companies hiring remote workers.

Pay Rate: Varies by employer (often KES 30,000-80,000 monthly for full-time positions)

Payment Method: Depends on employer

Pros:

• Legitimate companies
• Full-time opportunities
• Often better benefits

Cons:

• More competitive
• May require experience
• Interview process involved

12. Local Kenyan Facebook Groups and WhatsApp

Type of Work: Various typing projects from Kenyan businesses

Examples:

• “Freelancers Kenya” Facebook group
• “Data Entry Jobs Kenya” Facebook group
• Local business WhatsApp groups

Pay Rate: Negotiable (KES 500-5,000 per project)

Payment Method: M-Pesa (immediate)

Pros:

• Local clients (no PayPal needed)
• Immediate M-Pesa payments
• Build local network
• Often simpler jobs

Cons:

• Risk of non-payment
• Must verify client legitimacy
• Inconsistent work

How Much Can You Really Earn from Typing Jobs in Kenya?

Let’s talk real numbers because this is where most articles lie to you.

Beginner Level (Month 1-2)

Time Investment: 2-3 hours daily Realistic Earnings: KES 8,000-20,000 per month

You’re slow, making mistakes, learning platforms, and building reputation. Don’t expect miracles.

Example Breakdown:

• Rev transcription: 10 hours of audio @ KES 600/hour = KES 6,000
• Clickworker tasks: 20 hours @ KES 200/hour = KES 4,000
• Form filling: 50 forms @ KES 100 each = KES 5,000 Total: KES 15,000

Intermediate Level (Month 3-6)

Time Investment: 4-5 hours daily Realistic Earnings: KES 25,000-50,000 per month

You type faster, know which jobs pay better, have good ratings, work more efficiently.

Example Breakdown:

• GoTranscript: 20 hours of audio @ KES 720/hour = KES 14,400
• Upwork client (data entry): 60 hours @ KES 400/hour = KES 24,000
• TranscribeMe: 10 hours of audio @ KES 300/hour = KES 3,000 Total: KES 41,400

Experienced Level (6-12 months)

Time Investment: 6-8 hours daily (treating it as full-time work) Realistic Earnings: KES 50,000-100,000 per month

You have regular clients, premium rates, specialized skills (medical transcription), efficient workflow.

Example Breakdown:

• Regular Upwork client (monthly retainer): KES 40,000
• Medical transcription: 25 hours @ KES 1,000/hour = KES 25,000
• GoTranscript: 15 hours of audio @ KES 720/hour = KES 10,800 Total: KES 75,800

Expert Level (1+ years, specialized)

Time Investment: Full-time work Realistic Earnings: KES 100,000-200,000+ per month

You specialize (medical, legal), have multiple steady clients, possibly outsource some work, premium rates.

The Reality Check:

These numbers assume:

• Consistent daily work
• No major life interruptions
• Continuous skill improvement
• Good internet connectivity
• Treating it like a real job

You won’t earn KES 50,000 in your first month unless you’re exceptionally skilled or lucky. Anyone promising that is lying.

Step-by-Step Guide: Getting Your First Typing Job

Let me walk you through the exact process to land your first paid typing work within 7-14 days.

Step 1: Test Your Typing Speed (Day 1)

Go to typingtest.com or 10fastfingers.com and take a 1-minute test.

Results:

• Under 25 WPM: Practice daily for 2 weeks before applying
• 25-35 WPM: Ready to start but will be slow initially
• 35-50 WPM: Good starting speed
• 50+ WPM: Excellent, you’ll do well

Practice with typing tutorials on YouTube or keybr.com if you’re slow.

Step 2: Set Up Your Payment Account (Day 1-2)

Create PayPal:

1. Go to paypal.com
2. Sign up with your email
3. Link your Equity Bank account or set up KCB M-Pesa
4. Verify your account (may take 2-3 days)

Important: Use your real name exactly as it appears on your ID.

Step 3: Choose Your Starting Platform (Day 3)

For absolute beginners: Start with Scribie or Clickworker (easiest to get accepted)

For intermediate typists: Apply to Rev, TranscribeMe, and GoTranscript

For experienced freelancers: Create profiles on Upwork and Fiverr

Don’t apply to everything at once. Master one platform first, then expand.

Step 4: Pass the Application Test (Day 3-5)

Most transcription sites require a test. Here’s how to pass:

Before the test:

• Read ALL guidelines carefully
• Practice with sample audio on YouTube
• Use free transcription software (oTranscribe or Express Scribe)
• Study their style guide

During the test:

• Use headphones to hear clearly
• Type everything you hear accurately
• Include all “ums,” “ahs,” and filler words unless guidelines say otherwise
• Proofread multiple times
• Don’t rush

Common reasons for rejection:

• Missed words
• Incorrect spelling
• Wrong formatting
• Punctuation errors
• Not following guidelines

If rejected, wait the required time (usually 30-45 days) and reapply after practicing.

Step 5: Complete Your Profile (Day 6)

For platforms with profiles (Upwork, Fiverr, PeoplePerHour):

Profile Photo:

• Professional, clear headshot
• Smiling, friendly
• Plain background
• Good lighting

Profile Title:

• “Professional Data Entry Specialist”
• “Accurate Transcriptionist | Fast Turnaround”
• “Kenyan Virtual Assistant | Data Entry Expert”

Description: Write 3-4 paragraphs about:

• Your typing skills and speed
• Your attention to detail
• Your availability and turnaround time
• Your commitment to quality

Skills: List relevant skills: Data Entry, Transcription, Microsoft Excel, Google Docs, Audio Transcription, Copy Typing, etc.

Step 6: Start With Easy Jobs (Week 1-2)

On transcription sites:

• Choose short files (under 5 minutes) initially
• Pick clear audio even if it pays slightly less
• Take your time—accuracy beats speed

On Upwork/Fiverr:

• Set rates low initially ($3-5 per hour) just to get reviews
• Apply to 10-20 jobs daily
• Write custom proposals, not copy-paste
• Emphasize reliability and accuracy

Step 7: Deliver Quality Work (Week 2-4)

Every single job matters at the beginning. Your first 5-10 reviews determine whether you succeed or fail.

Quality checklist:

• Proofread everything twice
• Meet all deadlines (even if you must stay up late)
• Communicate professionally
• Ask questions if unsure
• Submit before the deadline

Step 8: Scale Up (Month 2+)

Once you have 10+ positive reviews:

• Increase your rates gradually
• Take on larger projects
• Specialize in one type of typing
• Build relationships with repeat clients
• Consider multiple platforms

Payment Guide: How to Receive Money in Kenya

Understanding payment is crucial. Here’s exactly how money flows from platform to your pocket.

PayPal to Equity Bank (Most Common Method)

Setup:

1. Create Equity Bank account if you don’t have one
2. Link it to PayPal in your PayPal settings
3. Verify the account (Equity sends small deposit amounts)

Withdrawal Process:

1. Log into PayPal
2. Click “Transfer to Bank”
3. Enter amount in USD
4. Select Equity Bank account
5. Confirm withdrawal

Processing Time: 2-5 business days Fees: Approximately 1.5% + currency conversion rate Minimum Withdrawal: $10 (approximately KES 1,300)

Exchange Rate: PayPal uses a slightly lower rate than the market rate, costing you about 3-4% in the conversion.

PayPal to KCB M-Pesa

Setup:

1. Have KCB M-Pesa account
2. Link to PayPal

Advantages:

• Faster than bank transfer
• Access money via M-Pesa
• Convenient

Direct Bank Transfer

Some clients on Upwork or direct contracts pay directly to your Kenyan bank account.

Best banks for international transfers:

• Equity Bank
• KCB
• Co-operative Bank

Processing: 2-7 business days Fees: Varies (KES 500-2,000 depending on amount and bank)

M-Pesa (For Local Clients)

Many Kenyan businesses and individuals pay directly to M-Pesa.

Advantages:

• Instant
• No withdrawal fees
• Familiar to all Kenyans

Disadvantages:

• Limited to local clients
• Daily transaction limits

Platform-Specific Payment Details

Rev: PayPal only, every Monday TranscribeMe: PayPal, weekly Scribie: PayPal only Upwork: Multiple options including M-Pesa Fiverr: PayPal, Payoneer, bank transfer Clickworker: PayPal, SEPA

Common Typing Job Scams in Kenya and How to Avoid Them

Unfortunately, scammers know that Kenyans are desperate for online work. Here are the most common scams:

1. The “Registration Fee” Scam

How it works: They advertise typing jobs paying KES 5,000-10,000 per week. Once you express interest, they ask for a “registration fee” of KES 1,000-3,000.

After payment, they either:

• Disappear completely
• Send impossible tasks
• Keep asking for more payments (“verification fee,” “training fee”)

Red flag phrases:

• “Pay KES 2,000 registration to access our system”
• “One-time activation fee”
• “Refundable deposit”

Reality: No legitimate company charges you to work for them. Ever.

2. The Fake Typing Test Scam

How it works: They send you a “typing test” which is actually real work they need done. You complete it for free, they use your work, then ghost you.

How to protect yourself:

• Legitimate tests are short (15-30 minutes maximum)
• They evaluate your skills, not complete their work
• Reputable platforms like Rev have standardized tests

3. The WhatsApp Typing Job Scam

How it works: Random WhatsApp messages promising “easy typing work, KES 500 per page.” After some chat, they ask for registration or commitment fees.

Reality: Legitimate employers don’t recruit via random WhatsApp messages.

4. The “Too Good to Be True” Promise

Common claims:

• “Earn KES 50,000 in your first week”
• “KES 1,000 per hour for simple copy-paste work”
• “No experience needed, earn KES 100,000 monthly”

Reality: If it sounds impossible, it is. Real typing jobs pay modest amounts that grow with experience.

5. Fake Job Boards

How it works: Websites that look professional but all jobs require “membership fees” or redirect you to pay before applying.

How to verify:

• Google the company name + “scam”
• Check reviews on Trustpilot
• Look for physical address and contact information
• Verify on Kenyan forums like “Freelancers Kenya”

6. The Pyramid Scheme Disguised as Typing Work

How it works: The “job” requires you to recruit others to earn money, not actually type.

Warning signs:

• Focus on recruitment
• Payment structure based on team size
• Upfront investment required
• Vague about actual work

How to Stay Safe

Golden Rules:

1. Never pay to get a job. Legitimate platforms are free to join.
2. Research thoroughly. Google “[platform name] + Kenya + review” before signing up.
3. Start with established platforms. Stick to Rev, TranscribeMe, Upwork, Fiverr, Clickworker initially.
4. Verify payment proofs. Screenshots can be faked. Ask for verifiable evidence.
5. Trust your gut. If something feels off, it probably is.
6. Join Kenyan freelancer communities. Facebook groups like “Freelancers Kenya” warn about scams.
7. Never share sensitive information. No legitimate platform asks for M-Pesa PIN, ATM PIN, or full bank details upfront.

Tips to Succeed and Earn More

Success in online typing isn’t just about typing fast. Here’s what actually works:

1. Focus on Accuracy Over Speed

A 99% accuracy rate at 40 WPM beats 80% accuracy at 60 WPM. Clients value accuracy. Platforms track error rates and will suspend you for repeated mistakes.

Practice tip: Use typing tutorials that emphasize accuracy first, speed second.

2. Specialize in a Niche

General typing has intense competition. Specialized typing commands premium rates.

Lucrative specializations:

• Medical transcription (requires training but pays KES 1,000-2,500/hour)
• Legal transcription (KES 800-2,000/hour)
• Academic transcription (KES 600-1,200/hour)
• Kenyan Swahili to English transcription (less competition)

3. Invest in Your Tools

Worth buying:

• Good quality headphones (KES 1,500-3,000)
• Ergonomic keyboard if typing long hours (KES 2,000-5,000)
• Foot pedal for transcription (optional, KES 2,000-4,000)
• Transcription software (Express Scribe is free)
• Backup internet solution (keep extra data bundles)

4. Build Client Relationships

On platforms like Upwork, getting one good client who gives you regular work is better than constantly bidding for new jobs.

How to build relationships:

• Deliver before deadlines
• Communicate proactively
• Offer suggestions for improvement
• Be reliable and professional
• Ask for feedback

Result: Long-term clients = steady income without constant job hunting.

5. Optimize Your Workflow

Time-saving strategies:

• Use text expanders for common phrases
• Learn keyboard shortcuts
• Use dual monitors if possible
• Create templates for different job types
• Batch similar tasks together

6. Manage Your Time Like a Professional

Treat typing as a real job, not a hobby.

Create a schedule:

• Set specific working hours
• Take regular breaks (prevents burnout and RSI)
• Track your time (know your actual hourly rate)
• Set daily targets (e.g., transcribe 3 audio hours)

7. Continuously Improve Your Skills

Free resources:

• YouTube: Transcription tutorials
• Udemy: Free courses during promotions
• Coursera: Business communication courses
• Practice daily typing tests

8. Network with Other Kenyan Typists

Join Facebook groups:

• “Transcriptionists Kenya”
• “Freelancers Kenya”
• “Data Entry Jobs Kenya”

Benefits:

• Learn which platforms pay consistently
• Get warnings about scams
• Share tips and strategies
• Find collaboration opportunities

9. Understand Taxes

KRA requires income tax on earnings over KES 24,000 monthly. As your income grows:

• Register for KRA PIN
• Keep records of earnings
• File tax returns annually
• Consider consulting a tax expert

10. Have Realistic Expectations

This isn’t passive income. You work, you earn. You don’t work, you don’t earn.

Success timeline:

• Month 1: Learning and setup
• Months 2-3: First consistent earnings
• Months 4-6: Stable part-time income
• Months 6-12: Potential full-time income

Pros and Cons of Online Typing Jobs

Let’s be balanced about this opportunity.

Advantages

For Beginners:

• Low skill barrier
• No degree required
• Start earning quickly
• Flexible schedule
• Work from anywhere

Financial:

• No transport costs
• No office wardrobe expenses
• Earn in dollars (protects against shilling fluctuation)
• Multiple income streams possible

Lifestyle:

• No commute (save 2+ hours daily)
• Work in comfortable clothes
• More time with family
• Control your schedule

Career:

• Build digital skills
• Gateway to higher-paying remote work
• Develop discipline and time management
• Create global connections

Disadvantages

Financial:

• Income instability (especially at start)
• No employee benefits (pension, medical)
• Must handle your own taxes
• Payment delays on some platforms

Physical:

• Risk of repetitive strain injury
• Eye strain from screens
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Need to self-manage breaks

Work-Related:

• Isolation (working alone)
• Self-discipline required
• Dealing with difficult clients
• Platform algorithm changes
• Competition from global workers

Technical:

• Dependent on internet
• Power outages affect work
• Platform account suspensions
• Learning curve for new platforms

Is Online Typing Worth It in Kenya?

Let me give you the honest answer: It depends on your situation and expectations.

Typing jobs are worth it if:

• You need flexible income alongside studies or other work
• You’re unemployed and need immediate income
• You have basic English and typing skills
• You’re willing to learn and improve
• You understand it’s real work, not passive income
• You need work-from-home convenience

Typing jobs might NOT be for you if:

• You expect to get rich quickly
• You have unstable internet access
• You lack self-discipline to work without supervision
• You have serious RSI or eye problems
• You need guaranteed monthly income immediately

The Truth About Typing Jobs:

They’re a legitimate stepping stone. Many successful Kenyan freelancers earning KES 200,000+ monthly started with typing jobs. They learned platforms, built discipline, saved money, then moved to higher-skilled work like writing, programming, or virtual assistance.

Think of typing jobs as your apprenticeship in the online work world.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I really make money from online typing jobs in Kenya without paying anything?

Yes, absolutely. Legitimate platforms like Rev, TranscribeMe, Scribie, Upwork, and Fiverr are completely free to join. You never pay registration fees, training fees, or activation fees. If anyone asks you to pay upfront, it’s a scam. These platforms make money by taking a commission from your earnings after you get paid by clients, not by charging you to join.

2. How much can a beginner realistically earn from typing jobs in Kenya?

In your first month, expect KES 8,000-20,000 if you work 2-3 hours daily. By months 3-6, this can grow to KES 25,000-50,000 as you become faster and more efficient. After a year of consistent work, some typists earn KES 50,000-100,000 monthly. These numbers assume consistent daily work and continuous improvement. Don’t believe anyone promising KES 50,000 in your first week—that’s unrealistic.

3. Do I need a laptop or can I use my smartphone for typing jobs?

While you can do some basic data entry and form-filling tasks on a smartphone, a laptop or desktop computer is strongly recommended for serious typing work. Transcription, copy typing, and Excel work are much more efficient on a computer. If budget is an issue, consider buying a used laptop for KES 15,000-25,000. This investment will pay for itself within 2-3 months of consistent work.

4. How do I receive payments from international typing platforms in Kenya?

Most platforms pay via PayPal. Set up a PayPal account and link it to your Equity Bank account or KCB M-Pesa for withdrawals. Money typically takes 2-5 business days to reach your bank. Some platforms like Upwork also offer direct M-Pesa withdrawal. Always check the payment methods available before starting work on any platform. PayPal charges approximately 1.5% withdrawal fee plus currency conversion costs.

5. What typing speed do I need to get hired?

Most platforms require a minimum of 30-40 words per minute (WPM) with good accuracy. However, accuracy matters more than speed. A typist doing 35 WPM with 99% accuracy will succeed more than someone doing 60 WPM with 85% accuracy. Test your speed at typingtest.com. If you’re below 30 WPM, practice daily for 2-3 weeks before applying. Speed naturally improves with experience.

6. Are there typing jobs that pay through M-Pesa directly?

Yes, but they’re less common than PayPal jobs. Local Kenyan clients found through Facebook groups or WhatsApp often pay directly to M-Pesa. Upwork also offers M-Pesa withdrawal for Kenyan freelancers. However, most international platforms use PayPal or Payoneer. The advantage of M-Pesa payments is instant access to funds, but PayPal gives you access to more job opportunities globally.

7. How can I tell if an online typing job is a scam?

Red flags include: requests for upfront payment (registration fees, training fees), promises of unrealistically high earnings (KES 50,000 weekly for beginners), contact only via WhatsApp with no company website, fake payment proofs, and pressure to recruit others. Legitimate platforms are free to join, have verifiable company information, realistic pay rates, and don’t contact you randomly via WhatsApp. Always Google “[platform name] + scam + Kenya” before signing up.

Conclusion: Your Path to Earning from Online Typing Jobs

If you’ve read this far, you’re already ahead of 90% of people who just dream about working online but never take action.

Online typing jobs aren’t a magic solution to all your financial problems, but they’re a real, legitimate way to earn money from home in Kenya. No commute. No office politics. No discrimination based on what you wear or where you come from. Just you, your keyboard, and clients who need work done.

Here’s your action plan starting today:

Today (Next 2 Hours):

• Test your typing speed
• Create a PayPal account
• Choose one platform to start with (Scribie for beginners, Rev for intermediate)

This Week:

• Pass the application test (take your time, read guidelines carefully)
• Set up your Equity Bank-PayPal connection
• Complete your profile professionally

This Month:

• Apply for your first 10-20 jobs
• Focus on quality over quantity
• Build your first 5 reviews

Next 3 Months:

• Work consistently 2-4 hours daily
• Learn from mistakes
• Gradually increase your rates
• Join Kenyan freelancer communities

The Reality:

Month 1 will be frustrating. You’ll type slowly, get rejected, wonder if it’s worth it. That’s normal. Push through.

Month 2, things get easier. You know the platforms, understand what clients want, type faster.

Month 3 and beyond, you start seeing real money. Regular clients. Better rates. Confidence.

By Month 6, if you’ve stayed consistent, you could be earning more than many office jobs in Kenya—all from your one-bedroom in Nakuru, Kisumu, or wherever you are.

Remember:

• Start with established platforms only
• Never pay to get a job
• Accuracy beats speed
• Build relationships with clients
• Be patient with the learning curve
• Join Kenyan freelancer groups for support
• Track your progress and celebrate small wins

Sarah from Nakuru, who I mentioned at the start of this article? She’s now earning KES 85,000 monthly, has two regular clients, and is training her sister to start typing work. She started exactly where you are now—uncertain, skeptical, but willing to try.

The typing jobs are out there. The platforms are real. The payments arrive. The only question is: will you start today?

Your future self—the one earning from home, controlling their schedule, no longer stuck in Nairobi traffic—will thank you for starting today.

Bookmark this guide, share it with someone who needs it, and let’s build a community of successful Kenyan online workers.