Part 8. : Earn $10–$20/Hour (Remote, No Experience Required)
ACD Direct (also known as ACD Agents) is a remote platform providing contract-based inbound call support, mostly for nonprofit organizations like PBS or NPR. Independent contractors answer calls from donors and members. You control your hours—but pay and work consistency depend heavily on call volume and script compliance.
How It Works
- Apply and get onboarded
You fill out an application and, if approved, must pass a criminal background check (fee paid by you).
You need a Windows PC, high-speed internet, noise‑free space, and a corded USB headset—no Bluetooth allowed. Training is unpaid
You complete self-paced training modules (answer scripts, systems). Until you’re qualified, you won’t be paid. - Take shifts and accept calls
Work is first-come, first-served. You choose available shifts or project lines, then accept inbound calls as they come in. - Paid per talk minute
You’re paid only for active talk time—not idle time. You might log in for hours and only get paid for minutes on calls.

Pay & Earnings Reality
- Base rate: Starts at
$0.25/talk‑minute ($15/hour engaged), increases to ~$0.30–$0.35 with bonuses or certifications. - Reported hourly range: According to user-reported data, average real earnings fall between $14–$16/hour, with Independent Contractor roles occasionally reporting up to $19‑$22.
- Variability: Many contractors report earning as low as $5–10/hour overall, especially when call volume is light or shifts aren’t filled.
🗣️ From contractor reviews:
“You are paid per minute—if you’re not on a call, you’re not getting paid.”
“Starting pay a bit low… but bonuses and experience is worth it.”
📉 Pros & Cons Summary
✅ Pros | ⚠️ Cons |
Flexible, remote shifts | Unpaid training before you begin earning |
Simple inbound call structure | Paid only for call time—idle time is unpaid |
No sales or high pressure | Pay drops when call volume is low |
Great for occasional or fallback income | No benefits or stability; training required |
Suitable for side-hustle, not main income | Feedback indicates poor management experience |
Who Is This Right For?
This role suits people who:
- Need flexible, at-home work—especially evenings or weekends.
- Can treat it as a side income—not dependable full-time wages.
- Operate well with scripts and follow precise instructions.
- Understand that downtime translates to no pay.
🏁 Final Verdict
ACD Direct is legit—but limited. It offers a genuine way to make money via inbound calls—but only for talk time. Don’t count on it as steady income. Instead, view it as a flexible gig you can add to evenings or weekends, especially if call volume remains high.