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Our FAQ covers the following categories. Click on the link to jump directly to that section and learn more.

WriterAccess Basics
Money Matters
All About Assignments
Rules and Star Ratings

WriterAccess Basics

Is it free to apply?

Yes. No fees or obligations exist for editors.

Who can apply?

Currently, we're only accepting applications from U.S. editors with PayPal accounts.

Can I apply to be an editor if I already have a writer account?

Yes, you can apply to be an editor as well as a writer. However, you must be able to fulfill the requirements for those talent types, which can be found in the Writer and Editor FAQs. Our technology will ensure that you are never asked to edit your own content. Feel free to inquire about openings by opening a Help Desk ticket in your account.

Do you have a greater need for writers or editors?

While the volume of orders coming through for editors is smaller than the volume for writers, the pool of editors is also smaller. Overall the demand is higher for writers, but this varies over time. It also tends to be more difficult to be selected as an editor than it does a writer.

I’m not sure if I should be a writer or an editor. How should I choose?

What do you consider yourself best at? While most writers can edit and most editors can write, they are distinct skills. We recommend you choose the area that you feel best fits your abilities.

How does this work for editors?

Editors who are accepted receive an initial star rating of 2, 3, 4 or 5, which is determined by the strength of their profiles, initial application and test score. A editor's level can improve (or decline) as assignments are completed.

Clients can place orders with editors using an order form (using the rates preset by WriterAccess that vary by star level). Once an order is reserved, editors are required to fulfill the order requirements as given on the order form. Once an order is submitted, the client can either approve the content or request revisions. We urge editors to comply with a minimum of one revision request if the client returns the first submission with comments. When an order is approved, the rights to the edited copy are transferred to the client and the editor is paid for their work.

How does this work for clients?

Clients order editing from the editors and provide instructions on each order. Orders can contain links, attachments and required SEO keywords. Clients can submit orders to a single editor or a team of editors if those editors have been added to their “Love List.” Clients only pay for content they approve—which should always meet the specifications and order requirements. Funds are held in escrow, and WriterAccess provides mediation for both editors and clients as part of the service.

Who owns and manages WriterAccess?

WriterAccess is owned and managed by ideaLaunch, a leading content marketing agency founded by Byron White. He also managed a number of companies in the content marketing space including LifeTips.com, WordVision.com and more.

You can reach out to the WriterAccess staff using the Help Desk in the platform.

Can you explain your pricing transparency?

Talent earn 70% of the client pay for any and all orders. Full transparency of prices help us attract the best talent and best clients.

Do you check content for duplication and plagiarism?

Yes, all articles are automatically scanned for copyright infringement using Copyscape. All detections are listed for client's review and verification on orders.

What type of content can clients order at WriterAccess?

A wide range of orders for editing are placed on WriterAccess, including advertisements, annual reports, articles, banner ads, blog posts, books, brochures, case studies, catalog entries, data sheets, direct mail pieces, email copy, Facebook posts, grants, mobile content, newsletters, presentations, press releases, product descriptions, proposals, radio spots, speeches, traditional scripts, Twitter posts, video scripts, web pages, webinar presentations, webinar scripts, and white papers.

Can clients create a list of their favorite talent and keep using them?

Yes indeed. Clients can add their favorites to a Love List. All the talent they add to their Love List can also be added to smaller teams, for organizing. When a client adds you to their Love List or a team, you will also be added to their order form. 

Talent pick up orders first-come, first-serve, with only one person responsible for that order.

Do clients own the copyright on the content they buy?

Yes. Clients own the copyright of any content purchased on WriterAccess. Clients do not own the copyright for any copy that they do not approve or do not pay for. Copyright is transferred upon approval of the order, which transfers payment to the talent. See our terms of use for more information.

Money Matters

How and when do I get paid?

We pay twice per month.

$10 USD is required in your account for payment. PayPal accounts are used for payment.

All assignments are tallied up on the 4th and 19th day of the month, for those orders that were submitted by the end of the preceding half-month (allowing previous period's items to be approved by clients). Once tallied, WriterAccess transfers the required funds to PayPal (which may take a few days) and send payments as soon as the balance is available to do so. By the end of this process, editors are typically paid out between the 7th and 9th for those pieces submitted before the end of the previous month, and between the 22nd and 24th for those pieces submitted by the 15th.

We say
typically, but because we rely on a slow ACH transfer into PayPal, where PayPal quotes 3-5 business days, that transfer may technically finish as late as the 11th and 26th, exclusive of holidays.

Sometimes long client approval times or editorial workflow may cause an assignment to not be approved by the time payments are disbursed. Affected orders will be batched into a second payment, and paid before the end of the following pay period's cutoff date.

What do the different levels pay?

The five levels all have different per-word rates. The word count for an editing order is determined by the source document's word count (pre-editing).

The per-word rate breakdown is as follows:

  • 2 Star - Review $0.007/word
  • 3 Star - Proofreading $0.014/word
  • 4 Star - Junior Editing $0.035/word
  • 5 Star - Senior Editing $0.105/word
  • 6 Star - Chief Editing $0.14/word

What if I didn't sign up at WriterAccess using my PayPal email address?

Editors can specify an alternate email address for use with PayPal. If editors don't provide this alternate, the primary is used.

How do taxes work?

At the beginning of each year (before January 31) WriterAccess sends 1099s to all talent who made $600 or more in the previous year. We do not send 1099s to talent who made less than $600 in the previous year. However, we do offer an unofficial 1099 (available through the website on your Payments dashboard) for those who earned less than the $600 minimum.

All About Assignments

Can I pick up assignments immediately?

Once an editor is approved with an initial star rating, they have full access to editing orders of their star level or lower. This approval process may take a couple of weeks.

Are editors protected with terms and conditions?

Yes. The client has deposited sufficient funds to create the order, so editors are guaranteed payment for successful completion of the order. Editors can request assistance for orders where they feel the client may be taking advantage of the revision process.

I'm new and not getting very far. What can I do?

The available assignments pool may seem empty, but that's because the general pool is highly competitive. Orders get picked up as quickly as they're placed. Editors can increase their exposure among clients by becoming more interactive on the site by:

1. Responding to private messages. Sometimes a client will find editors in a general search because values on an editor's profile match the experience and qualifications required for a project. Clients can send messages to an editor directly to discuss projects. Communication must remain on WriterAccess.

2. Filling out your profile. Our search is based on your profile, so by filling out more assets, industries and samples, you are more likely to be found by clients.

The more successfully completed orders, the more visibility an editor has on WriterAccess.

How do I claim orders on WriterAccess?

Once an editor logs into WriterAccess.com, they have full access to the platform. The Available Orders page posts a list of assignments that are available to be picked up.

An order is claimed by clicking “View” and then “Checkout this Order.” There is a checkout rule which states that an editor has one hour to review the instructions on an order and determine whether or not they can complete it. If the order is unreserved past the one-hour grace period, a penalty may be applied. All order cancellations beyond the one-hour grace period are reviewed by WriterAccess.

Editors are expected to only claim assignments they are qualified to complete and are encouraged to reach out to the clients for clarification if there is a problem with the order details/instructions.

Editors are also expected to submit the article by the deadline prescribed on the order. Extensions can be requested, but cannot always be honored, and may result in penalties. Editors submit the content to the client by hitting the “Save and Submit” button at the bottom of the order form.

The content goes through Copyscape verification before it reaches the client. The status of the order can be seen in the “Pending Approval” folder.

What are the different levels of editing orders?

There are four different levels of orders available:

2 Star - Review - These are orders that we review internally at WriterAccess (there is no client waiting for this content, because it has already been accepted on their end). The only thing an editor needs to do is read through them and take stock of the issues (no need to make changes in the text). Once the editor has read through the order, he or she will hit the "send to client" button below the text (in this case the client is WriterAccess). The editor will then be prompted to make note of the issues he or she found and leave a short note as to the quality of the content. These notes will be used later to help evaluate the writer's performance. There is no timeline on when these review orders need to be completed.

3 Star - Proofreading - These orders come in two flavors: (1) A client can ask, as an add-on to the content order, to have the order proofread before they are sent to them, or (2) A client can request proofreading for a document through the editing order form.
Because the majority of orders fall under scenario 1, we do ask that all proofreading orders an editor claims are completed within 24 hours. Editors at this level should only concern themselves with spelling, punctuation, and grammar. Larger scale issues and changes are not necessary at the proofreading level.
In most cases (for example, a 500 word piece of content), editors will only need to spend 5-10 minutes proofreading.

4 Star - Junior Editing - In addition to editing for spelling, punctuation, and grammar, these orders require more editorial input. The level of editing depends on the client and needs of the specific piece. If you are not given specific direction, be sure to at minimum complete proofreading, style checks and link checks on the document. Clients may also request a track change word document.
In most cases (for example, a 500 word piece of content), editors will only need to spend 20-25 minutes proofreading.

5 Star - Senior Editing - As with Junior Editing orders, these require higher level editing. Requests from the client will vary depending on the project. If you are not given specific direction, be sure to at minimum complete junior editing items, and full passage rewriting on the document. Clients may also request a track change word document or fact checking at this level.
In most cases (for example, a 500 word piece of content), editors will only need to spend 45-55 minutes proofreading.

6 Star - Chief Editing - As with Senior Editing orders, these require higher level editing. Requests from the client will vary depending on the project, but often these projects require deep industry expertise. If you are not given specific direction, be sure to at minimum complete senior editing items, and note any meaning, syntax, motivation and conversion advice for the client. Clients may also request a track change word document or fact checking at this level.

Can I compose texts offline?

Yes, editors can copy and paste text from a word processor into the text box on an order. Many clients actually prefer or will request that changes are made in a Word Document using the track changes feature. 

How long does the client have to make a decision on my article?

Self Service clients have 120 hours to approve the work once an editor formally submits the order: by hitting the “Save and Submit” button. Plus clients have 168 hours. Pro and Enterprise clients have 336 hours. Clients can also pay for additional approval time when placing the order, however the max is 336 hours. This extra cost is split with the editor according to the usual 70/30 breakdown.

The time for client approval is decided at the time the order is created, and the editor can see this value before they reserve the order.

During the approval time, clients have the opportunity to request revisions, at which point they can return the article to the editor with comments on what to revise. When the editor again submits their content for approval the client's approval time is reset.

Can a client request revisions?

Yes. As part of the WriterAccess satisfaction guarantee policy to clients, one round of revisions is required by the client if the order does not meet their expectations and they would like to remove the editor and get a refund for their order. Clients can request revisions for a number of reasons:

  • the editor did not fulfill an instruction/requirement on the order form
  • unsatisfactory quality of content (grammar, punctuation, formatting style/tone, etc.)
  • Copyscape matches
  • SEO/linking requirements

Editors are given a certain amount of time to perform the revision request, but a minimum of 24 hours. Editors are expected to comply with revision requests if they haven't fulfilled the order requirements. WriterAccess encourages editors to notify the Help Desk if they have any questions or concerns about a client abusing revision requests.

Editors are not required to do any revisions, but dropped orders cannot be paid, and will also be automatically reviewed by talent management.

How can I improve my ranking for higher paid assignments?

Editors can improve their rating by completing orders successfully, receiving positive ratings from clients, and being added to Love Lists. There is an algorithm in place that determines the editor's algorithm score.

Consistent good work is rewarded with an increase in star level, whereas any discrepancies regarding the quality of work will have a negative impact on the star level. This algorithm can automatically move you up to a 5-star editor, but moving up to 6-star is done by periodic review by talent management.

How many orders can I check out at a time?

The seasoned editors here at WriterAccess have dubbed our system "garages". Having a 3-car garage means that you can check out 3 orders at a time, etc.

New editors start with a 1-car garage, and can only check out one love list order and one crowd order at a time. Once the first 10 orders are approved, editors are automatically upgraded to a 3-car garage and can check out up to three orders per group (crowd and love list) at a time. After a editor has 100 approved articles, they can claim up to 4 articles at a time. After 500 articles, they can claim up to 5 articles at a time.

There is one exception, an editor can claim an unlimited amount of “solo” orders. These are orders that clients assign only to one editor to work on “solo.”

Once an order is off to the client for approval the space is cleared out and you can fill it with another order.

How do I communicate with a client?

Clients can initiate communication with writers in several ways.

  1. Via Comment/Message directly in an order.
  2. Via WAMail: In the communication area (like an email/message)
  3. Via Conference Call intro: It sends a WAMail message as well as a phone number and PIN. Once a Conference Call line is activated, it's up to the editor and client to correspond via message to determine a date/time to call. (The conference call feature costs the client $0.50/minute, and the editor is paid the usual 70% of that for their time.)
If a client reaches out to you from any other avenue, or provides you with contact information to talk off of the platform, please open a Help Desk ticket.

What are crowd, love list, and solo orders?

These terms refer to way the order is sent to the editor rather than the level of the order. Crowd orders are released to any editor who wants to claim them, while love list and solo orders are sent to a single editor directly (solo) or a group of editors (love list) to see who picks it up first.

All five levels of editing orders (Review, Proofreading, Junior Editing, Senior Editing, and Chief Editing) are potentially available via these distribution methods.

What do I do if a client asks me to log in to another system/platform and edit their content from there?

You should politely let them know that any content they need edited can either be attached, linked to, or copied into the order form. You are not responsible for logging into a system or platform the client controls to provide edits (e.g. logging into a WordPress site to edit a blog and then launching it).

You are only responsible for editing the content provided in the order form, not updating it or publishing it for the client. 

If your client has any questions, please direct them to the Help Desk.

Rules and Star Rating

How does your Star Rating for editors work?

The WriterAccess freelance editor community is categorized into a five-level rating system. The purpose of this system is two-fold: 1) It allows more experienced editors to have access to complex assignments and earn more money, and 2) It's an easy way for clients to choose the level of quality they desire and pay accordingly. Editors are assigned 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6 stars depending on their profile details, industry experience and demonstrated editing proficiency.

2 Star Reviewers — New editors or professionals in other fields looking to branch out are frequent recipients of this rating. Qualities of this editor include: limitations or lack of experience editing different asset types, grammar, punctuation or spelling proficiency, and some SEO knowledge. WriterAccess assigns an editor this level after review of the editor's profile, samples, and work completed on the platform. 2-Star editors are valued resources that fill an important role at WriterAccess by helping provide reviews.

3 Star Proofreaders — The majority of applicants fall into this ranking. Profile and samples are basic, yet informative. The editor may have previous editing experience. Some 3-star editors don't specialize in any one field or industry, but may exhibit a proficient understanding of style and tone. Grammar, punctuation and spelling skills are solid.

4 Star Junior Editors — Editors of the 4-star level have valuable editing experience. Most of these editors have experience editing a variety of asset types and also have an understanding of more complex editorial requirements and instructions. Work delivered by a 4-star editor should meet the specifications of the order and go slightly beyond to exhibit a more advanced knowledge base or stylistic ability. 

5 Star Senior Editors — Editors who receive a 5-star rating on WriterAccess are typically recognized authorities with proven editing abilities. The editor is highly professional and has an expert grasp of the English language. Clients can expect 5-star editors to adhere to deadlines religiously, and contribute by editing content to have a clear, concise writing style. Some 5-star editors are also experts in a given industry and may specialize in technical, PR, copywriting editing. The 5-star editor also understands the complexities of editorial requirements and always delivers work that meets order specifications.

6 Star Chief Editors— 6-star editing creates a piece that flows naturally, serving up copious details without careening readers off on tangents or leaving them scratching their heads. Readers feel content with the knowledge gained, not unlike the satisfaction after a good meal. They're also left with a feel-good vibe, and maybe even a chuckle, thanks to the snap, crackle and pop that explodes in the work.

Editor' star levels can increase and decrease depending on the algorithmic scoring of completed orders and client ratings on the platform.

Can I give a client my personal contact information?

No. Editors (and clients) are not allowed to exchange personal contact information for privacy purposes. This includes full names, email addresses and phone numbers. All communication must take place in the WriterAccess platform. This includes comments on orders, In-Mail messages, and Conference Calls. Everything is recorded and monitored so that WriterAccess can come to the defense of an editor or client in the event of a discrepancy.

Can a client rate my work?

Yes, clients are required to rate the order when it is approved. If the order is auto-approved, the client is given 2 weeks after the auto-approval to rate the order. After the 2 weeks, if the client doesn't rate, WriterAccess deems the order as “met expectations.”

This is good for editors, because it's counted toward the algorithm as a successfully completed order.

Clients can rate “exceeded expectations,” which helps the editor's rating even more so than having met expectations.

Some clients choose to rate an order “did not meet expectations.” In order to leave this rating, the client must comment on the order with their reasoning. All work rated negatively is reviewed by WriterAccess internal staff. Internal staff determines whether or not the client's rating was justifiable. If not, we don't hold it against the editor. If so, a penalty will be applied to the algorithm, which can be canceled out by "met" and "exceeds expectations" ratings.
https://www.writeraccess.com/editor-faq/
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