Upwork remains one of the world’s largest freelance platforms, and in 2025 its payment system is more structured and reliable than ever. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced contractor, understanding how Upwork payouts work will help you avoid delays, minimize fees, and optimize your financial workflow.
How Upwork Payments Work in 2025
Upwork uses a built-in escrow system for fixed-price contracts and weekly payment cycles for hourly contracts. Funds move through three phases:
- Funds in Review — client reviews submitted work (fixed contracts).
- Pending — Upwork verifies and holds funds for security.
- Available — money becomes ready for withdrawal.
The entire process usually takes 5 days after approval for fixed-price work and 10 days for hourly contracts.
Available Withdrawal Methods
Freelancers can withdraw earnings through several payout channels. In 2025, the most popular are:
1. Payoneer
Upwork supports direct withdrawal to Payoneer, making it one of the most efficient options for international freelancers. It works through the “Upwork to Payoneer” integration and supports USD, EUR, and GBP accounts.
If you don’t have a Payoneer account, you can open one here:
Create a Payoneer Account.
2. Wise (formerly TransferWise)
Upwork users can also withdraw through Wise multi-currency accounts using the bank withdrawal option. Wise is often cheaper when you need to convert currencies.
If you’re invoicing international clients outside Upwork, Wise may save you more.
Open a Wise Multi-Currency Account.
3. Direct to Local Bank
This is convenient but may have higher FX fees depending on your region. Processing time varies from 1–5 business days.
4. U.S. ACH Transfers
Ideal for freelancers with U.S. accounts — fast, cheap, and efficient.
Upwork Payment Timeline
- Fixed-price contracts: 5 days security period after approval.
- Hourly contracts: weekly billing cycle + 5 days security hold.
- Bonus payments: available immediately.
Most freelancers receive money in 7–12 days after the work is completed and approved.
Fees You Should Know
- Upwork service fee: flat 10%.
- Withdrawal to Payoneer: often free (depending on region).
- Bank withdrawals: Upwork may charge $0.99 or region-based fees.
- Wise conversions: 0.35–0.7% (very competitive).
How to Reduce Withdrawal Fees
- Withdraw larger amounts less frequently.
- Use same-currency withdrawals with Payoneer.
- For conversions, compare Wise FX vs Payoneer FX before withdrawing.
Recommended Setup for 2025
For most global freelancers, the optimal payout combination is:
- Use Payoneer for direct Upwork withdrawals.
- Use Wise for converting money at the best FX rates.
- Store money in USD/EUR if your bank has high conversion fees.
Final Thoughts
Upwork’s payout system in 2025 is secure, predictable, and flexible. With the right combination of Payoneer and Wise, freelancers can minimize fees, speed up transfers, and manage global earnings more efficiently.
Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission if you sign up through our Payoneer or Wise links — at no extra cost to you.
For related reading, check out our guide: Best Multi-Currency Accounts for Freelancers in 2025.
