Why you shouldn’t get paid outside Upwork

Why can’t I get paid directly by my client, outside of Upwork?

The short answer: It makes the marketplace less safe — for everyone.

When a working relationship moves off Upwork — a practice known as circumvention — it undermines the protections Upwork provides, puts both parties at risk, and weakens the trust that makes this marketplace work. That’s why we have a zero-tolerance circumvention policy unless a conversion fee is paid.

Circumvention can expose both clients and freelancers to fraud, harassment, or nonpayment — with no recourse or support. Off-platform relationships also mean no public feedback, no payment protection, and no transparent work history, making it harder for others to find the right match.

On a larger scale, these actions impact our ability to create more opportunities and maintain a marketplace that connects high-quality clients and independent professionals across the globe.

Note: We do have a contract conversion process, which enables you to move your relationship off-platform without violating our Terms of Service.

What is circumvention on Upwork?

Circumvention is when a client and freelancer meet on Upwork, but then conduct their relationship outside of Upwork by sending payment through another means without paying the conversion fee. Circumvention is a serious violation of our Terms of Service and is laid out in Section 7 of the User Agreement.

We understand that there may be times when a significant, longer-term business relationship develops between you and your client and working together directly makes sense for both parties. And since we allow you to bring your own clients to Upwork, it follows that we have ways for you to bring them off Upwork, as well. That is why we recognize two exceptions, when moving a relationship outside of Upwork does not count as circumvention:

• The Upwork Conversion Fee has been paid for the relationship
• A relationship that started outside the platform, comes onto Upwork, and is then taken outside the platform. This includes through our "Bring Your Own" programs

Important: Violating the non-circumvention clause of the Terms of Service will result in account suspension and you won't be able to use Upwork in the future. 

 

What do I lose by taking my contract off Upwork?

When your relationship is taken outside of Upwork, we will no longer be able to offer any support, including payment protection, dispute resolution services, etc. You will be responsible for resolving any issues that arise with payments, quality of work, deadlines, etc., without our assistance.