Moving outside Upwork

[antoniocuratolo7]

If possible, I'd like to ask this question directly to a moderator. I've been working with a client since May 2020, and now I'd like to propose that we move outside of Upwork. I'd like to know if it's still possible to do this without paying the famous conversion fee, and possibly what I need to do to make it official.

Thank you.

[andregutierrez22]

Hi Antonio,

Taking a relationship that started on Upwork outside the platform is what we call Circumvention. As you know, this is against the Terms of Service, with a few exceptions. You are indeed allowed to work with your client outside of Upwork, if you've been working together on Upwork for more than two years. You can find more information about Circumvention and the allowed exeptions here.

[antoniocuratolo7]

Hello Andrea, 

Thanks for your kind reply. Yes, I've been working with a client for more than two years, as you can see from the screenshot attached to this message. I wanted to ask you if there's a process to transfer the contract outside the platform without having problems with Upwork.

Best,

Antonio

[prestonhunter]

There is no process.

If it has been more than two years, you can simply begin working together outside of the Upwork platform.

[andregutierrez22]

Hi Antonio,

Not exactly, but it is recommended. You can find this FAQ in the help article I shared with you above: 

An Upwork relationship starts when a client and freelancer contract with each other for the first time. This is typically when a client purchases a project on Project Catalog or accepts a freelancer's job proposal.

If you have any doubts, you can always ask our team to confirm. If you've been working together for more than two years and you're planning to take a relationship off Upwork, we recommend giving us a heads-up first so we can make an official note of it.

[antoniocuratolo7]

Perfect. If I choose to take the relationship outside of the platform, I'll absolutely give Upwork a heads-up. Thanks for your help.

Best, 

Antonio

[prestonhunter]

After 2 years, Upwork is clear that there is absolutely no requirement to continue using the platform.

But in all the years I have read about this topic, I can confirm that the general consensus among freelancers is that they don't actually move off of the platform after they hit the 2-year mark.

I personally have many clients who I have worked with for more than 2 years on Upwork. After that amount of time, the fee has always dropped to 10% and often 5%. Upwork is safe and convenient to use, and continuing to use it means continuing to accrue hours and completed jobs in my stats.

I totally support any freelancer who makes a different decision. But for me, there's no desire to move off platform.

[antoniocuratolo7]

I totally see your point, Preston, and basically I agree with you. But this is the first time I hit the 2-year mark with a client and I'd like to consider every option on the table. I just wanna make sure I won't be kicked off from Upwork if I make a certain choice 😅

Anyway, thanks for your opinion!

Best,

Antonio