This is a critical question. Many transcriptionists worry about using free software to earn money.
According to NCH Software’s End User License Agreement (EULA) historically and as of the latest updates:
Verdict: A freelance transcriber doing occasional work is fine with the "unlicensed" free version. A medical transcription agency with employees should buy licenses. express scribe unlicensed basic free version
Myth 1: “The free version only works for 30 days.”
Fact: False. That’s Express Scribe Pro trial. Basic has no time limit.
Myth 2: “You can’t use a foot pedal with Basic.”
Fact: False. Pedal support is fully enabled in Basic. This is a critical question
Myth 3: “Basic watermarks your transcriptions.”
Fact: False. Express Scribe never alters your document. It only controls audio playback.
Myth 4: “NCH will sue you for commercial use of Basic.”
Fact: False. It’s explicitly allowed. Verdict: A freelance transcriber doing occasional work is
Upgrade only if you need one or more of these:
Otherwise, the unlicensed Basic version is fully capable for solo transcriptionists, freelancers, and small offices.