Should You Join a Virtual Assistant Agency or Go Solo?
Working from home is officially the new normal — and honestly, I’m not mad about it. Everywhere you look, someone is trying to learn how to become a virtual assistant (and yes, I’ve even seen dogs on TikTok “typing” on laptops so clearly the competition is getting intense).
But before you dive in, there’s one big decision you’ll face:
Should you join a virtual assistant agency or start your own VA Biz from scratch?
Let’s break it down!
Option 1: Joining a Virtual Assistant Agency
If you’re brand new and want to skip the awkward “where do I find clients” phase, joining a VA agency might be the move.
Pros:
- They find the clients for you
- You get steady work right away
- No need to handle contracts, invoicing, or marketing
- Perfect for beginners
Cons:
- They take a cut of your income
- Less control over your schedule & rates
- You’re technically working for them, not for yourself
Option 2: Become a Virtual Assistant on Your Own
Going solo gives you more freedom — and more money — but also more responsibility.
Pros:
- You set your own rates
- You choose your clients
- Unlimited income potential
- Full control over your business
Cons:
- You’ll need to find your own clients
- You wear all the hats (marketing, admin, finance, etc.)
- It takes time to build momentum
So… Which One Should You Choose?
If you’re a total beginner, joining an agency is like using training wheels — it helps you get comfortable before you ride solo. If you already feel confident, have a few skills, and are ready to hustle, going independent might be your best move.
But here’s the good news: you don’t have to pick forever. You can start with an agency, build experience, then break off and run your own show later.
That’s exactly why I created this giant Virtual Assistant Agency List — so you can browse real companies hiring VAs right now, find beginner-friendly opportunities, and skip the endless Google scavenger hunt.
Why This Virtual Assistant Agency List Exists
When I first started, every piece of advice was like:
“Just find clients!”
Okay… where? At Costco? In the parking lot? On LinkedIn while pretending I know how to network?
So instead of screaming into my pillow, I spent hours collecting every legit virtual assistant agency I could find and turned it into a list you can actually use — including:
✨ Agencies that hire beginners
✨ Remote-friendly virtual assistant companies
✨ Agencies hiring outside the U.S.
✨ High-paying VA agencies
✨ Specialized agencies for social media management, executive support, e-commerce, and more
If you’re ready to dip your toes into the VA world without building a website, learning funnels, or figuring out your “brand voice” yet, this list is your shortcut. Scroll down and dive into the list — you might find the agency that changes everything for you.
Let’s get you hired.
What Does a Virtual Assistant Do?
A virtual assistant is like a super helper who does various tasks for clients, all online. These tasks can include:
- Email management: Keeping track of your client’s emails, organizing them, and even responding to some.
- Scheduling: Helping clients set up appointments, manage their calendars, and remind them of important dates.
- Social media management: Posting updates, managing comments, and keeping social media profiles active.
- Data entry: Inputting data into spreadsheets, databases, or other systems.
- Research: Finding information online, whether it’s for a blog post, a report, or a project your client is working on.
The cool thing about being a virtual assistant is that you can offer services based on what you already know or are interested in learning. This job is never boring because each day can bring new tasks and challenges!
How Much does a Virtual Assistant make?
One of the big questions is, of course, how much money you can make as a virtual assistant. According to Indeed.com, the average hourly rate for VAs in the United States is about $24.79. But your earnings can vary depending on whether you work for a company or run your own business.
- Working for a company: Companies that hire virtual assistants usually pay between $10 to $20 per hour. Entry-level positions might start at the lower end, while more experienced VAs can earn at the higher end.
- Running your own business: If you decide to start your own virtual assistant business, you can set your rates. Some VAs charge anywhere from $60 to $100 per hour, especially if they offer specialized services like graphic design or content writing.
Running your own business gives you more control over your income, but it also means you need to find your own clients and manage everything yourself.
Are Virtual Assistants in Demand?
Are they ever! Virtual Assistants are the future.
So yes, Virtual assistants are in very high demand, especially as more and more businesses move online. Many business owners, entrepreneurs, and even busy individuals need help with tasks they simply do not have the time for. As a VA, you can offer these services and help people stay organized and focused on their main goals.
One of the biggest benefits for business owners is that they don’t have to provide office space or equipment for a virtual assistant. This saves them money and makes hiring a VA an attractive option – for pretty much every and any business you can think of!

What Do You Need to Be a Virtual Assistant?
I’ll tell you what you don’t need! You don’t need a college degree. Not at all.
So, what DO you need then?
Well, here are some virtual assistant skills that might make you more successful in this role……
- Basic computer skills: You should be comfortable using email, typing, and searching the internet.
- Good writing skills: You’ll need to write clearly and correctly, especially if you’re handling emails or creating content.
- Familiarity with common software: Knowing how to use Google Workspace, QuickBooks, or Microsoft Office can be a big plus.
- Social media savvy: Many VA’s manage social media accounts; therefore, understanding platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram is helpful.
- Communication skills: Whether you’re talking to clients or handling calls for them, being a clear and pleasant communicator is important.
- Research skills: You’ll often need to find information online quickly and efficiently.
- Dependability: Clients need to know they can count on you, so being reliable and sticking to your agreed hours is key.
- Adaptability: The world of online work changes fast. Being able to learn new tools and adjust to new challenges is crucial.
If you have most of these skills, you’re well on your way to becoming a successful virtual assistant!
Working for a Virtual Assistant Agency
There are two main paths you can take as a virtual assistant: working for a virtual assistant agency or starting your own virtual assistant business.
Let’s first look at the pros and cons of working for virtual assistant agency first:
Pros of Working for a Virtual Assistant Agency:
- Regular paycheck: Working for a company means you’ll have a steady income, which is great if you need money right away.
- Gaining experience: If you’re new to virtual assisting, working for a company can help you learn the ropes and build your skills.
- Learning new skills: Companies may require you to learn new software or tools, which can make you more valuable in the future.
Cons of Working for a Virtual Assistant Agency:
- Limited income control: You’ll earn what the company decides to pay you, with no room to negotiate.
- Job security concerns: Since you’re not your own boss, you could lose your job at any time if the company decides to cut back or closes down.
- Less flexibility: You’ll need to be available during the hours the company needs you, which might limit your personal schedule.
- Earning less: The company will take a cut of what the client pays, so you’ll only receive a portion of the total fee.
Overall, working for a company can be a great way to get started, especially if you’re not ready to run your own business. It gives you experience and helps you earn money while you learn.
50 Virtual Assistant Agencies that Hire
If you’re interested in working for an agency, here’s a list of over 50 agencies that often hire virtual assistants. These virtual assistant agencies vary in the types of tasks they need help with, so check them out and see if any of these companies are a good fit for you!
- 20four7VA – Worldwide
- 24/7 Virtual Assistant
- 99 Dollar Social
- Back Office Betties – Specific US states
- BELAY
- Boldly – US, UK
- Bottleneck Distant Assistants – Philippines
- Buolo Solutions (Occasional openings)
- Byron
- Chatterboss – US & South Africa
- Contemporary Virtual Assistance
- Delegated
- Efficient Aide
- Equivity
- Fancy Hands
- Firegang
- Gabbyville
- Great Assistant – US and Canada
- Hello Rache – Philippines
- Magic – Philippines
- Move Forward Virtual Assistant – PA, VA, SC, MS, FL, WY, WA, TX, TN, SD, NV, and AK
- My BTLR
- NS Virtual Services
- OK Relax
- Ossisto
- Paragon Planners – AZ, CA, CO, FL, MI, MO, NC, OH, OR, SC & TX
- Peachtree VA – US only
- Perssist
- Prialto – Portland, OR, Manila, Philippines, Guatemala City, Guatemala
- Priority VA
- Productive Therapist – CA, UT, PA, TX, OH, MN
- Rivvly
- Rock Solid Assistants
- Smith.ai
- Task Bullet
- tawk.to
- Team Delegate
- Time, Etc.
- Trusty Oak
- Uassist.me – El Salvador
- VA Sumo
- VaVa Virtual Assistants
- Verbatim – UK
- Virtatalent – UK
- Virtual Gal Friday
- Virtual Gurus
- Virtual Latinos – Latin America
- Wing – US & many other countries
- Wishup
- Zirtual
Many of these companies have specific requirements, such as location or experience, so make sure to read the job descriptions carefully.
Start Your Own VA Business
Now, let’s talk about starting your own virtual assistant business. This path offers more freedom and higher earning potential, but it also comes with its own challenges.
Pros of Starting Your Own VA Business:
- Unlimited income potential: You set your rates and keep all the money you earn.
- Flexible schedule: You decide when to work and can create a schedule that fits your life.
- Creating your dream job: You can build your business around the tasks you enjoy and are good at.
Cons of Starting Your Own VA Business:
- Startup costs: While starting a VA business isn’t expensive, you’ll still need some money to get things going.
- Takes time to build: You won’t make a lot of money overnight. Building a successful business takes time and effort.
- Marketing yourself: Finding clients and marketing your services can be time-consuming, especially when you’re just starting out.

How to Start Your Own Virtual Assistant Business
Ok, so you’re ready to run your own virtual assistant business. Love that for you. Before you start booking clients and living your best work-from-home life, you’ll need a few tools to keep everything organized and running smoothly.
Don’t worry — you don’t need fancy software or a tech degree. Just the basics.
Money Stuff (aka “Let’s Not Get Audited”):
You need something to track your income and expenses — even if you’re only making coffee money at first.
- QuickBooks or FreshBooks → super easy tools to keep your money straight
- They help with invoices, taxes, and adulting in general
Design Tools (For When You Want to Look Like You Know What You’re Doing):
You do not need Photoshop. Seriously. Use these instead, they’re legit so much easier too:
- Canva (my forever favorite)
- PicMonkey (also great)
Both let you make cute graphics, social posts, flyers, and client previews — even if you can’t draw a stick figure.
Social Media & Scheduling:
If you’re posting for clients or trying to promote your own VA business:
- Buffer or Hootsuite = schedule posts ahead of time so you’re not glued to your phone
- Google Calendar or Calendly = helps you keep appointments and deadlines straight (and not forget Zoom calls… ask me how I know)
Website + Hosting:
You don’t need a website to start, but having one makes you look 10x more legit.
- A simple one-page site with your services + contact info is enough
- I personally love Chemicloud — insanely affordable, beginner-friendly, and their 24/7 support is chef’s kiss
Start simple. You don’t need every tool in the world to launch a virtual assistant business — you just need the right ones and the confidence to get going. Trust me, you can totes do this girl!
How to Find Clients for Your Virtual Assistant Business
Okay, Real talk for a quick sec….
Truth is, finding clients is and always will be the absolute hardest part of starting your own virtual assistant business. It’s not the tech. It’s not choosing your services. It’s not even setting your rates.
It’s getting real-life breathing humans to pay you to help them. But don’t panic — every VA (including me) started with zero clients too.
Here’s how to get your first ones without selling your soul:
1. Start With People Who Already Know You
Yes, I know — messaging friends and family feels awkward. But listen, this isn’t begging. This is letting people know you have a skill they might need. And trust me — people are way more likely to hire someone they already like.
What to do:
“Hey, I just started offering virtual assistant services — things like inbox clean-up, scheduling, and social media support. If you or someone you know needs help, I’d love to chat!”
Boom. Simple. Not cringe.
2. Let Your Clients Become Your Marketing Team
If you do great work, you won’t need to constantly hustle — your clients will do it for you. The fastest way to grow a VA business? Be so good they tell their friends.
After a win or successful project, ask: “Do you know anyone else who might need help with this?”
That one sentence can make you thousands.
3. Join the Right Networking Groups (Not the Spammy Ones)
Facebook groups, Slack communities, and even VA-specific forums are gold mines if you join the right ones.
Look for groups like:
✔️ Virtual Assistant Job Boards
✔️ Small business communities
✔️ Entrepreneur support groups
✔️ Podcast/creator groups (they always need help)
Don’t show up screaming “Hire me!!!” — just answer questions, be helpful, and offer value first. They’ll notice.
4. Be Visible on Social Media (Even If You Hate It)
You don’t need to dance on TikTok or start a YouTube channel (unless you want to — in which case, do it!). Just create a simple Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook business page that says:
➡️ who you help
➡️ what you do
➡️ how they can hire you
Post behind-the-scenes stuff, tips, screenshots of your process, wins, testimonials, and your personality. People don’t just hire VAs — they hire people they feel like they know.
5. List Yourself Where Clients Already Are
You don’t need to chase clients if you show up where they’re already looking.
Great places to list your services:
⭐ Fiverr
⭐ Upwork
⭐ Freelancer
⭐ Guru
⭐ PeoplePerHour
⭐ Contra
⭐ SolidGigs
⭐ Facebook marketplace (yes, really — some people do well there!)
Just remember: some of these sites take a cut, so raise your rates to compensate.
The “Oh My God, Should I Actually Do This?” Moment
Becoming a virtual assistant can seriously transform your life. Whether you start through an agency or build your own VA business from the ground up, the opportunity is real — and you absolutely do not need a degree, a corporate background, or a ring light to pull it off.
With the right skills and a little consistency, you can build a flexible, profitable career where your commute is literally rolling out of bed and opening your laptop. Will it be perfect every day? Nope. Your dog will bark during Zoom calls, your kid will need a snack right when you’re in the zone, and yes — your fridge may try to emotionally manipulate you. But once you treat this like a real job instead of just a cute side hustle? It becomes one of the most rewarding ways to work from home. I promise.
If this helped you, please hit that like button or share it with someone else trying to escape the 9–5 hamster wheel. Your support genuinely means the world to me — and I want nothing more than to see you win in this wild online world.
Alright, your turn. Go snag those clients and make some magic happen. I’m over here rooting for you like a proud internet auntie — because the world always needs one more boss babe doing her thing online.
Are You Ready for It?
From the wise words of Taylor Swift herself — are you ready for it?
Because if this post has you fired up about working online, don’t stop now. Your next step is learning how to become a virtual assistant the right way — not the chaotic, 27-tabs-open, YouTube rabbit-hole way.
I’ve put together a complete beginner-friendly mini-course that walks you through everything you need to know to get started: what to charge, where to find clients, what skills actually matter, how to stand out, and the most common mistakes new VAs make (so you can skip them), and all that fun stuff!
👉 Read: How to Become a Virtual Assistant (Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners)
And while you’re there, grab my FREE Virtual Assistant Workbook — it helps you map out your services, identify your strengths, and plan your first steps like a total pro. No opt-in. No email bribes. Just download it and go.
You’ve got this — and I’m in your corner cheering you on every step of the way.
Now go make that laptop money boss babe!