How Upwork's freelancer fee works now
Upwork moved freelancers to a variable service fee from 0% to 15% in 2025, replacing the older fixed fee. According to Upwork, the rate depends on things like client demand, freelancer supply, job category and membership plan. You see the rate before you submit a proposal or accept an offer, and it stays the same for the life of that contract. It applies to all earnings on the contract, including bonuses.
Because the rate differs from contract to contract, this calculator does not assume one: type in the rate shown for your contract. The default of 10% is only an example.
Take-home = amount billed − service fee − withdrawal fee
To take home X, bill (X + withdrawal fee) ÷ (1 − fee %)
Examples
| Contract | Fee rate | Service fee | You keep |
|---|---|---|---|
| $500 fixed price | 10% | $50.00 | $450.00 |
| $500 fixed price | 15% | $75.00 | $425.00 |
| Bill $1,111.11 to keep $1,000 | 10% | $111.11 | $1,000.00 |
Tips
- Read the fee before you bid. The rate is shown with each proposal or offer; put it into the calculator and adjust your bid if needed.
- Set your hourly rate from the take-home you need. Use the second mode with your target hourly pay as the amount.
- Older contracts may differ. Contracts started under the old fee structure, direct contracts and enterprise work can have different rates; use the rate Upwork shows for each contract.
Upwork's fee terms change. Check the service fee shown on your proposal or contract, and Upwork's help center, for the rate that applies to you.
Frequently asked questions
What percentage does Upwork take from freelancers?
A variable service fee between 0% and 15%, set per contract. Upwork shows the rate before you submit a proposal or accept an offer.
Does the fee change during a contract?
Upwork says the rate is fixed for the life of the contract once it starts.
Is the fee charged on bonuses?
Yes. Upwork's help pages say the freelancer service fee applies to all earnings, including bonuses.
Are there other costs?
Possibly: Connects to submit proposals, an optional membership and withdrawal fees depending on how you get paid. Enter any withdrawal fee above.
Sources
Upwork Legal Center: service fees
Last reviewed: November 2026 · By Muhammad Shujah