FAQ
Data Entry Clerk FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a data entry clerk.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a data entry clerk: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about data entry clerks
Is data entry a good job?
It’s easy to enter, but BLS projects a steep decline.
Can I work from home?
Many jobs are remote; watch for scams that ask for payment.
What speed is needed?
Many employers want 40 to 60 words per minute.
How much does a data entry clerk make?
The median annual wage for data entry clerks was $41,340 ($19.88 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $31,200 and the highest 10% earned more than $58,790.
How long does it take to become a data entry clerk?
Most people need about A few weeks on the job of training. A high school diploma and short-term on-the-job training are typical.
Do you need a degree to be a data entry clerk?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus short-term on-the-job training.
Is data entry clerk a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change -25.5% from 2025–35 (a projected decline), with about 7,700 openings each year. Upsides include short training; a common challenge is that steep decline in jobs.
What skills does a data entry clerk need?
Key technical skills include fast typing, 10-key, data verification, and spreadsheets. Employers also value accuracy, focus, and reliability.
What certifications are available for data entry clerks?
Common credentials include Typing speed certificate, 10-key certificate, Microsoft Office Specialist, and HIPAA training. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Data Entry Clerk fit quiz, compare with Office Clerk, or explore Data Entry Clerk training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 43-9021 (Data entry keyers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Data entry keyers (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.