Your verified name on Upwork is only shared with clients once you enter a contract. Learn where it appears and why it’s shared.
In this article
- Do you show my real name to clients on Upwork?
- What does Upwork mean by "verified name"?
- Where do clients see my real name after we have a contract?
- Why does Upwork need to share my verified name with clients?
- What if I’m not comfortable with my client knowing my verified name?
- Does my real, verified name appear on my Upwork profile?
- What happens if I change my legal name?
Do you show my real name to clients on Upwork?
Your full, verified name is not shown to everyone. However, when you agree to enter into a contract with a client, we do share your verified name with that client at that time.
What does Upwork mean by "verified name"?
Your full, verified name is the one on the government-issued ID that you share with us when verifying your identity.
Where do clients see my real name after we have a contract?
It will appear in three locations:
- On invoices
- In the contract room you share with the client
- On your Certificate of Earnings
What if I’m not comfortable with my client knowing my verified name?
We understand that your privacy is important to you and that sharing your full, legal name may feel awkward. However, legally, when entering into a contract with someone you are expected to share your legal name. So while your Upwork profile name may be different from your legal name, your legal name will appear on invoices and in the contract rooms you have with clients.
Does my real, verified name appear on my Upwork profile?
That's up to you. Your profile name can be a nickname or a variation of your legal name, as long as it follows our name change guidelines. Your verified name is only shared on invoices and the contract room you have with a client.
What happens if I change my legal name?
If you change your legal name, such as due to marriage, divorce, or other reasons, you will need to reverify. Please contact us to request re-verification.
Note: We understand the importance of respecting your identity. Upwork will make exceptions for transgender individuals who are in the process of transitioning but have not been able to obtain a name change due to legal or other barriers. To safeguard the security of our users, documentation may be required.