Learn how Upwork Payroll works, how it differs from standard contracts, and how payments are handled through an Employer of Record for employee-based projects.
In this article
- What is Upwork Payroll?
- How do Upwork Payroll contracts differ from other Upwork contracts?
- How will I be paid with Upwork Payroll?
What is Upwork Payroll?
Upwork Payroll helps give you more flexibility by making it simple for you to work as an employee, rather than as an independent contractor.
In some cases, a client may ask you to work as an employee for an Employer of Record (EOR) instead of as an independent contractor. This can be for a variety of reasons, including the need for a set working schedule and a long-term relationship. If you decide to accept a project where you are classified as an employee, we’ll refer you to the third-party EOR.
As with other clients you work with on Upwork, you will agree upon a rate before the contract starts and will still communicate directly with your client on project-related matters.
How do Upwork Payroll contracts differ from other Upwork contracts?
- Upwork Payroll contracts may be hourly or salaried
- With Upwork Payroll contracts you will log your time with the Employer of Record (EOR) instead of our time tracker and work diary
- Your contract will be marked as "paused" in Upwork to prevent duplicate reporting of hours and payments; this will not affect your Job Success Score
- Your earnings from Upwork Payroll contracts will be reflected in your Upwork profile; however, the number of hours worked will not
- Your EOR will relay any necessary information about matters relating to your employment
- You may receive additional benefits through the EOR, such as health insurance, depending on the employer, contract, and other factors
How will I be paid with Upwork Payroll?
Your employer, the EOR, will pay you directly. This means you will not withdraw funds from the Upwork platform. You will need to provide the EOR with your bank account information and they will instruct you on how to set up direct deposit for your pay. If you need to update this information later, you will need to contact the EOR directly.
Note: In the U.S., pay is typically weekly, biweekly, or twice a month on the first and fifteenth days of the month, though there could be variations. In some countries outside the U.S., monthly or another schedule may be customary. Pay dates in Upwork Payroll engagements will be made in accordance with the employer's payroll calendar, which will be provided to you during onboarding.