FAQ
File Clerk FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a file clerk.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a file clerk: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about file clerks
Is filing still a job?
Yes, though BLS projects decline as records go digital.
Do file clerks need a degree?
No.
Where do they work?
Hospitals, law firms, government and insurers.
How much does a file clerk make?
The median annual wage for file clerks was $43,600 ($20.96 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 $63,490.
How long does it take to become a file 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 file 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 file clerk a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change -15.8% from 2025–35 (a projected decline), with about 5,600 openings each year. Upsides include no degree needed; a common challenge is that declining employment.
What skills does a file clerk need?
Key technical skills include filing systems, scanning and indexing, records retention, and data entry. Employers also value organization, attention to detail, and reliability.
What certifications are available for file clerks?
Common credentials include Records management course, Office skills certificate, HIPAA training, and CRM. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the File Clerk fit quiz, compare with Office Clerk, or explore File Clerk training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 43-4071 (File clerks).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for File clerks (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.