Understanding Upwork Payment Schedule

How does Upwork Works?

Upwork is a platform that connects freelancers and clients. Once a job is completed and approved by the client, the payment for the job is then processed.

When Does Upwork Pay?

Upwork follows a weekly payment schedule. However, the specific timing depends on the type of contract you have and the billing method of your client. Here are the three typical methods:

• Hourly Contracts: In hourly contracts, your work diary would first need to be reviewed and approved by the client. The review period starts every Monday and lasts until Friday. Once approved, the earnings are processed and a security period begins (which lasts 5 days). After this period, the earnings are available for you to withdraw.
• Fixed-Price Contracts: For fixed-price projects, the client will pre-fund each milestone. Once a milestone is completed and approved by the client, the payment is immediately available for withdrawal.
• Bonus Payments: Bonus payments initiated by clients become available for withdrawal after a five-day security period.

Please note that while these are the standard timescales for payment availability, actual transfer times depend on the withdrawal method you’ve chosen.

Consideration of the Upwork Service Fee

For all payments received, Upwork charges a service fee. Remember to take this into account when considering your freelance rate to ensure you’re earning what you expect.

Overall, the timely success of payments relies heavily on your client’s promptness and the efficiency of the chosen payment method. Should you find yourself in a situation where a client is not making payment, Upwork has certain protection mechanisms in place to help resolve your issues.