Basic plan

Upwork's fee article states it directly: a client "on our free, Basic plan" pays a Client Marketplace Fee of up to 7.99% on all payments to freelancers. That covers fixed-price and hourly contracts, Project Catalog projects, bonuses, Direct Contracts, consultations, payroll, expenses and miscellaneous charges. A client in the U.S. who qualifies and pays by bank account pays a reduced fee of 3%. The fee is not refundable, even if a payment is reversed or refunded. The same article notes that the fee is higher on Business Plus.

What the plan includes. Upwork's plan comparison lists the global freelance marketplace, AI-powered features, collaboration and project tracking tools, standard reporting and flexible payment options. Business Plus adds Expert-Vetted talent, shortlisting, premium support, advanced reporting and monthly invoicing. A Business Plus client who downgrades returns to Basic at the end of the membership cycle.

Promotions. Upwork runs time-limited fee offers for Basic clients, such as reduced Marketplace fees for new contracts in named categories. Each offer has its own page with dates and exclusions; read that page rather than assuming the offer still runs.

What it means for freelancers. The client's fee is charged to the client on top of what they pay you. Your own freelancer service fee is a separate charge set by its own rules, so a client's plan tells you about their costs, not yours.