Can a client reduce rate on already logged hours (hourly contract)?

[kavithasky]

One of my clients invited, discussed on Upwork chat, and hired me at my quoted rate. After the work was completed in less than 20 hours from the time the project was awarded, as requested, the client said that she accidentally offered me my hourly rate and requested to reduce it to less than one-fourth of the profile rate. The job was having payment protection until I completed it and handed over the content. The work week hasn't ended yet. Could you help me know (1) my options, and (1) also whether I will get paid for the hours logged?

[bstojadinovic]

Hi Kavitha,

When a client reduces the hourly rate, it only applies to hours the freelancer logs from that point on, not to previously logged hours! 

It is always good to communicate and politely explain everything to your client to avoid any misunderstanding. You can discuss the terms of the further engagement on contract and attempt to resolve the situation amicably.

On an hourly contract, you log hours and the client is automatically billed for them. Timesheet for this week will be available for the client's review next week and the payment will be released to you on Wednesday the week after. Note that Manually added hours are not covered by Upwork hourly protection, unlike the hours you logged using the Upwork time tracker App. Please learn about Hourly Payment Protection and weekly billing cycle.