Learn why clients may need proof of your business status and how to show you're legally operating as an independent professional to start contracts faster.
In this article
- Why do I need to prove that I have a business?
- How do I show clients that I have a business?
- How do I show that I have a business in my country?
Why do I need to prove that I have a business?
Some clients — especially those with compliance requirements — need confirmation that you're legally operating as an independent business before they can start a contract.
This is common with Enterprise contracts. You might be asked to confirm your business status before you're offered a contract, or even when submitting a proposal.
- Completing this step in advance helps you become “Enterprise Ready” — and can help you start work faster if you land a contract that requires a compliance review.
- While you can wait until you win the contract, you’ll need to complete this process before you can begin working.
The good news? As a freelancer on Upwork, you're already operating as a business — typically as a sole proprietor. There are benefits to this structure, as well as to others like LLCs and corporations.
But some clients may require more formal documentation beyond your activity on Upwork.
How do I show clients that I have a business?
You can submit one or more of the following:
- Business license
- Proof of status as a limited liability company (LLC), corporation, or other entity, such as articles of organization, certificate of incorporation, or online registration summary
- Proof of registration with any tax, social security, or other agency as an independent contractor, sole trader, private entrepreneur, or other self-employed individual
- Proof of registration of a business name (dba), such as a fictitious business name statement, registration of trade name, or certificate of assumed name
- Form of notice showing your U.S. Employer Identification Number (EIN) or international business tax number
- Certificate of Insurance or other proof of liability insurance
- Proof that you have unemployment or workers’ compensation insurance
- Invoices to other clients within the last 12 months
- Business tax return (e.g. Schedule C from U.S. Form 1040)
- Commercial office space lease
- Coworking space membership or lease
- Proof of payrolling yourself or hiring employees or freelancers for your business
Your can redact (blur out or hide) sensitive information such as financial, tax, or other information you consider private. Just make sure what’s visible still shows what type of document it is and confirms you’re running a business. Information you share through the our platform is protected by Upwork’s Privacy Policy.
How do I show that I have a business in my country?
Below is a list of commonly accepted business documents in countries with more specific guidance:
| Country | Commonly accepted business documents |
|---|---|
| Australia |
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| Canada |
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Denmark |
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Finland |
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| France |
|
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Germany |
|
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Netherlands |
|
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Norway |
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Poland |
|
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Portugal |
|
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Spain |
|
|
Sweden |
|
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United Kingdom |
|
|
United States |
|
| Argentina |
|
| Brazil |
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| Hong Kong |
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| South Korea |
|
If your country isn’t listed and you are asked to prove you are a business, your local legal, tax, or accounting professional can help you identify the necessary documentation.