Freelancer Review
A comprehensive analysis of Freelancer.com — the pioneering crowdsourcing marketplace connecting millions of professionals with projects across every industry. Trusted globally since 2009.
Visit Official Website| Platform Name | Freelancer.com |
| Official Website | freelancer.com |
| Launch Year | 2009 |
| Headquarters | Sydney, Australia |
| Company | Freelancer Technology Pty Ltd (ASX: FLN) |
| Platform Type | Freelance Marketplace / Crowdsourcing |
| Joining Fee | Free (both clients and freelancers) |
| Freelancer Commission | 10% or $5 (whichever is greater) for fixed-price; 10% for hourly |
| Skill Requirement | None, but competition is high |
| Minimum Withdrawal | $1 for PayPal/Payoneer, varies for bank transfer |
| Payment Methods | PayPal, Payoneer, Bank Transfer, Skrill |
| Affiliate Program | Yes — up to $100 per referral |
| Mobile App | iOS and Android |
| Supported Countries | 247 countries & territories |
| KYC Required | Yes — identity verification for withdrawals |
| Customer Support | Help Center, Ticket System, Live Chat (limited) |
| Trust Score | 7.8 / 10 |
| Overall Rating | 3.9 / 5 |
| Ease of Use | ||
| Beginner Friendly | ||
| Earning Potential | ||
| Payment Reliability | ||
| Transparency | ||
| Customer Support | ||
| Long-term Reliability | ||
| Overall Rating |
Contest Enthusiasts
Freelancer.com popularized the contest model—freelancers submit work samples, and the client picks a winner. Great for designers, writers, and creatives who prefer showcasing work over proposals.
Global Project Seekers
With users in 247 countries, the platform offers incredible reach. Clients and freelancers from every continent connect for projects ranging from simple data entry to complex engineering.
Budget-Conscious Clients
The competitive bidding environment often results in lower project costs. Buyers can compare dozens of bids and choose affordable, skilled talent for their needs.
Full-Time Freelancers
The platform supports both hourly and fixed-price contracts, enabling freelancers to build a steady stream of work. Top-rated professionals can secure long-term, recurring projects.
Niche Technical Skills
Developers, engineers, and IT specialists find a wide array of projects—from website builds to AI model training. The platform’s size means niche skills are often in demand.
Aspiring Entrepreneurs
The affiliate program and the ability to build a team under a freelancer profile make Freelancer.com appealing for those looking to scale a freelance business.
Those Who Dislike High Competition
The sheer volume of freelancers means you'll often compete against dozens—sometimes hundreds—of bids. Standing out requires a strong profile and competitive pricing.
Freelancers Seeking Instant Payouts
Withdrawal processing and security holds mean earnings are not instant. Those needing same-day access to funds may find the waiting period frustrating.
Complete Beginners Without a Niche
Generic profiles struggle to win bids. Freelancers without a specific skill set or a compelling portfolio often find the platform overwhelming and unrewarding.
Users Prioritizing Premium Support
Customer support is primarily ticket-based and can be slow. Freelancers who expect fast, phone-based assistance may be disappointed during urgent issues.
Freelancer.com is one of the internet's oldest and largest freelance marketplaces, launched in 2009 and headquartered in Sydney, Australia. The company is publicly listed on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX: FLN), bringing a level of financial transparency and accountability. Over the years, the platform has acquired several competitors (including Scriptlance, vWorker, and EUFreelance) to amass a user base of over 60 million registered professionals.
Unlike newer platforms that focus solely on productized services, Freelancer.com retains a strong emphasis on competitive bidding and crowdsourcing. Its unique contest feature allows clients to run design, writing, or idea competitions where multiple freelancers submit entries, and the winner takes the prize. For traditional work, it offers both fixed‑price and hourly contracts, supported by a milestone escrow system and a desktop time‑tracking app.
The fee structure is straightforward: freelancers pay 10% of their earnings (or $5.00, whichever is greater) for fixed‑price projects, and 10% for hourly projects. While the platform is free to join, optional paid memberships unlock additional bids, skills, and commission reductions. Freelancer.com generates revenue through these service fees, membership subscriptions, and promoted project listings.
Create Your Account & Profile
Sign up for free, complete your profile with skills, experience, portfolio items, and certifications. Take the optional skill tests to verify your expertise and boost credibility.
Find Projects or Contests
Browse thousands of open projects and contests. Use filters for budget, category, and deadline. Projects require a bid; contests allow you to directly submit your work.
Bid or Submit Your Entry
For projects, write a compelling proposal and state your price. For contests, upload your creative work. Stay within your free bid limit or purchase additional bids via membership.
Get Awarded & Work
If selected, agree on milestones (fixed‑price) or log hours with the desktop tracker (hourly). Use the built‑in messaging to communicate and deliver files through the platform.
Receive Payment
Once the client approves the deliverable or the hourly invoice is generated, funds are released to your account. After a security clearance, withdraw via PayPal, Payoneer, or bank transfer.
Contest System
Clients post a brief and set a prize. Multiple freelancers submit work; the client selects one winner. A unique way to earn without bidding and to build a portfolio fast.
Milestone Payments
For fixed‑price projects, funds are held in escrow for each milestone. Freelancers know the money is secure before starting work, and clients pay only upon approval.
Desktop Time Tracker
The Freelancer Desktop App logs hours and captures screenshots (optional). This provides transparency for hourly contracts and helps resolve disputes about work done.
Preferred Freelancer Program
Top‑rated, vetted professionals are invited to this elite tier. They receive priority placement in search results, a dedicated badge, and exclusive high‑value project invitations.
Skill Tests & Certifications
Freelancers can take official tests to demonstrate proficiency in topics like PHP, English grammar, or Photoshop. High scores are displayed on profiles, boosting client trust.
Recruiter & Enterprise Solutions
Larger businesses can use Freelancer’s Recruiter service to find vetted talent. The platform also supports enterprise accounts with dedicated account management and compliance tools.
Freelancer.com supports diverse earning avenues—from competitive contests to long‑term hourly contracts. Below are the primary ways to generate income on the platform.
Fixed‑Price Projects
The most common project type. Freelancers propose a total price for the entire job, often split into milestones. Work is funded in advance, reducing non‑payment risk.
Requirements: A clear proposal, portfolio, and sometimes a test sample.
Advantages: Predictable earnings, milestone escrow protection.
Disadvantages: Scope creep can reduce effective hourly rate; fee is 10% or $5, whichever is greater.
Tip: Define milestones and deliverables meticulously in the contract to avoid disputes.
Hourly Projects
Ideal for ongoing work, consulting, or projects with evolving scope. Freelancers log hours via the desktop tracker or manually (if enabled by the client). Payment is invoiced weekly.
Requirements: Consistent availability, reliable internet, time management skills.
Advantages: Steady cash flow, protection via tracked screenshots.
Disadvantages: Clients may micromanage via screenshots; lower rates for entry‑level tasks.
Tip: Always use the time tracker—manual hours lack payment protection and can be disputed.
Contests
A hallmark of Freelancer.com. Clients host design, writing, or naming contests. Freelancers submit entries, and the winning entry receives the entire prize. Non‑winners may still sell their work to the client.
Requirements: Creativity, understanding of the brief, ability to produce high‑quality work under deadline.
Advantages: No bidding needed; chance to earn without a long proposal; great portfolio builder.
Disadvantages: You work on spec—payment only if you win. Highly competitive.
Tip: Read the contest brief carefully and submit early to receive feedback and improve your entry.
Services (Productized Gigs)
A newer feature where freelancers list predefined, fixed‑scope services (like “I will design a logo in 24 hours”). Clients purchase directly without a project posting or bid.
Requirements: Clear service description, fast turnaround capability.
Advantages: Passive income, simpler than writing proposals, instant orders.
Disadvantages: Limited adoption compared to project bidding; competition from other gig‑style platforms.
Tip: Price your service slightly lower initially to attract reviews, then raise rates as you gain traction.
Referral Program
Earn commissions by referring new freelancers or clients to the platform. When your referral completes their first project or posts a project, you receive a cash bonus.
Requirements: An active network or social media presence.
Advantages: Passive income potential, no freelancing skills needed.
Disadvantages: Requires significant referral volume; bonuses are one‑time.
Tip: Share your referral link in freelancing groups, blogs, or YouTube videos for best results.
Preferred Freelancer Direct Invites
Once accepted into the Preferred Freelancer Program, you receive exclusive invitations to high‑budget, vetted projects. Clients specifically seek out these verified experts.
Requirements: Exceptional track record, consistent high ratings, application approval.
Advantages: Access to high‑value clients, reduced competition, priority support.
Disadvantages: Stringent entry requirements; performance expectations are very high.
Tip: Maintain a 5‑star rating and complete at least 20 projects before applying for the Preferred program.
Getting started on Freelancer.com is free, but building a winning profile takes effort. Follow these steps to create your freelancer account.
Sign Up for Free
Visit freelancer.com and register using your email, Google, or Facebook account. Choose “I want to work” to create a freelancer profile.
Build a Detailed Profile
Add a professional photo, headline, summary, skills, employment history, education, and portfolio. A complete profile is more likely to be shortlisted by clients.
Verify Your Identity
Go to Settings and complete the ID verification process. This is required for most withdrawal methods and adds a “Verified” badge to your profile.
Take Skill Tests
Demonstrate your proficiency by taking free skill tests. High scores are publicly visible and help you stand out in a crowded marketplace.
Start Bidding or Enter Contests
Use your free monthly bids to apply for projects, or browse open contests to submit your work. Consistency and quality are key to landing your first gig.
The Freelancer.com dashboard is feature‑rich and may feel overwhelming at first. Key sections include:
Projects
Browse recommended and filtered job listings. See project budgets, client stats, and deadlines. Submit proposals and track active bids from this hub.
Contests
Dedicated tab for open design, writing, and naming contests. View briefs, prizes, and deadlines. Upload your entry and monitor the leaderboard.
My Projects
Manage active contracts, deliverables, and milestones. Upload files, request payments, and communicate with clients. Track hourly invoices and fixed‑price progress.
Messages
Built‑in real‑time messaging with file‑sharing and chat rooms. Keep all client communication on‑platform for documentation and dispute resolution.
Finances
View your balance, transaction history, and pending clearances. Initiate withdrawals, manage payment methods, and download invoices for your records.
Profile & Settings
Update your profile, take skill tests, manage membership, and configure notification preferences. Keep your information current to maximize visibility.
PayPal
Minimum withdrawal: $1. Processing time: 1–3 business days. Widely available. Freelancer does not charge a withdrawal fee, but PayPal may apply currency conversion.
Payoneer
Minimum withdrawal: $1. Processing time: 1–2 business days. Supports local bank transfers in many countries. A reliable alternative to PayPal with competitive forex rates.
Bank Transfer (Wire)
Minimum withdrawal: Varies by region (often $500+). Processing time: 3–5 business days. Suitable for large sums. Freelancer may charge a wire fee depending on your currency.
Skrill
Minimum withdrawal: $1. Processing time: 1–2 business days. An e‑wallet option supported in selected regions. Check availability in your country before relying on this method.
Complete Projects & Receive Funds
For fixed‑price, the client releases the milestone. For hourly, invoices are generated after the billing period. Funds then enter your Freelancer account balance.
Security Clearance Period
Most payments have a 5–10 day security hold before becoming available for withdrawal. This protects against chargebacks and fraud.
Check Available Balance
Navigate to “Finances” > “Withdraw”. Only funds marked as “Available” can be transferred out.
Select Payment Method & Amount
Choose your preferred withdrawal method, enter the amount, and confirm. Ensure your payment details are correctly set in your account settings.
Receive Your Money
Processing times vary by method. Once completed, the funds appear in your PayPal, Payoneer, Skrill, or bank account. Contact support if delays exceed 5 business days.
| PayPal | 1–3 business days | No Freelancer fee |
| Payoneer | 1–2 business days | No Freelancer fee |
| Bank Transfer | 3–5 business days | Fee may apply (varies by currency) |
| Skrill | 1–2 business days | No Freelancer fee |
As a publicly listed company (ASX: FLN), Freelancer.com’s financial operations are subject to Australian securities regulations and independent audits. The platform has been processing payments for over 15 years, with millions of transactions completed.
Payment proof is extensively documented across independent forums like Reddit, SiteJabber, and freelance communities. Users regularly share withdrawal screenshots confirming successful transfers via PayPal and Payoneer. While the volume of positive proof is substantial, some freelancers report delays with wire transfers and identity verification holds—common to platforms of this size.
The milestone escrow system adds a layer of security for fixed‑price contracts, and the official time tracker supports hourly billing disputes. Overall, Freelancer.com has a solid track record of paying freelancers who follow the terms of service.
Company Transparency
Freelancer Technology Pty Ltd is a publicly traded company on the Australian Securities Exchange. Financial disclosures, board composition, and operational risks are publicly available. The company has acquired numerous smaller platforms, consolidating its market position. Terms of service, privacy policy, and fee schedules are clearly posted on the website.
Security Analysis
The platform uses standard SSL encryption and offers two‑factor authentication. Identity verification is mandatory for withdrawing funds, which reduces fraud. The Freelancer Desktop App’s screenshot feature enhances trust for hourly contracts. However, some users have criticized the platform for overly aggressive automated security flags that temporarily suspend accounts.
Freelancer Protection
Milestone escrow secures funds before work begins on fixed‑price projects. Hourly payment protection applies when using the time tracker correctly. Dispute resolution is available, though the process can be lengthy. Freelancers should meticulously document all deliverables and communication to protect themselves.
- Publicly traded company (ASX: FLN) with financial transparency
- Unique contest system lets creatives earn without bidding
- Massive global reach across 247 countries and territories
- Free to join with no upfront costs for basic freelancers
- Milestone escrow protects funds for fixed‑price projects
- Preferred Freelancer program unlocks premium, high‑budget opportunities
- Multiple withdrawal options: PayPal, Payoneer, Skrill, wire
- Skill tests add credibility and help profiles stand out
- Desktop time tracker with screenshot logging for hourly work
- Referral program offers cash bonuses for bringing new users
- Mobile apps for iOS and Android keep you connected anywhere
- Enterprise solutions and recruiter tools attract large corporate clients
- Extensive project categories covering every professional skill
- Membership plans can reduce commission and increase bid limits
- Long operational history (since 2009) with millions of completed projects
- 10% or $5 minimum service fee can eat into small project margins
- Extremely competitive—new freelancers may struggle to win first projects
- Customer support is heavily ticket‑based and often slow
- Security holds delay access to earnings (5–10 days after payment)
- Account suspensions due to identity verification issues are common
- Outdated user interface can feel clunky compared to newer platforms
- Limited free bids per month—more bids require a paid membership
- Some clients post projects with unrealistically low budgets
- Dispute resolution can be drawn‑out and favors clients in certain cases
- Contest model means you may work without guaranteed pay
Freelancer.com’s support structure includes a comprehensive Help Center, a ticket submission system, and limited live chat for urgent matters. The Help Center is searchable and covers most common issues. However, getting a human response can be time‑consuming, with standard ticket replies often taking 48 hours or more.
Preferred Freelancers and clients on paid plans receive priority support, which is faster. Phone support is not publicly available. The dispute resolution team handles payment and project conflicts but is often seen as slow and bureaucratic. Freelancers are advised to resolve issues directly with clients before escalating.
Freelancer.com’s interface is functional but not as polished as newer competitors. The dashboard can feel cluttered, with many sections and upsell prompts. That said, the platform is packed with tools—project management, messaging, time tracker, and finance modules are all integrated. The mobile app is adequate for basic tasks like messaging and bidding but less smooth than the desktop experience.
The bidding process is straightforward, though the platform’s emphasis on paid memberships (to unlock more bids, skills, etc.) can be a nuisance for free users. The contest browsing experience is engaging, with clear briefs and easy submission flows. Overall, the platform prioritizes functionality over aesthetics, which may suit veteran freelancers but can intimidate newcomers.
- Creative professionals who thrive in contest environments
- Freelancers comfortable with competitive bidding and negotiation
- Those looking for a vast, global marketplace with projects of all sizes
- Developers, designers, writers, and data entry specialists seeking diverse work
- Freelancers willing to invest time in a comprehensive profile and skill tests
- Agencies and teams wanting to build a presence on a well‑established platform
- Anyone who prefers milestone‑based payments with escrow protection
- Freelancers who dislike high competition and low‑ball bidding
- Those who need instant access to earnings (security holds delay payouts)
- Beginners without a niche or a standout portfolio—traction is very hard to gain
- Users who expect modern, sleek interface design and UX
- Professionals in strictly regulated fields that prohibit third‑party escrow
- Individuals who cannot tolerate occasional account verification hurdles
Earnings on Freelancer.com span a vast range. While many freelancers earn a solid full‑time income, beginners and those in low‑cost categories may find it challenging. Below are typical ranges based on user reports and platform data.
| New Freelancer (first 3 months) | $50–$800/month |
| Part‑time (10–20 hrs/week) | $800–$3,000/month |
| Full‑time (30–40 hrs/week) | $3,000–$8,000/month |
| Preferred Freelancer / Expert | $8,000–$20,000+/month |
| Contest‑based income | Highly variable; $100–$5,000+ per win |
| Entry‑level data entry / VA | $300–$1,500/month |
- Complete your profile to 100% — upload a professional photo, write a compelling summary, and list all relevant skills. A complete profile is more likely to be invited to projects.
- Take and pass skill tests — high scores on relevant exams boost your credibility and can be the deciding factor when clients compare freelancers.
- Start with smaller, well‑defined projects — winning a few quick jobs and earning 5‑star reviews builds momentum and unlocks better opportunities.
- Write custom, client‑focused proposals — address the project’s specific requirements, show relevant samples, and explain why you’re the best choice.
- Use the contest feature strategically — enter contests in your niche to build a public portfolio quickly. Even if you don’t win, clients may contact you for future paid work.
- Bid competitively, but don’t undervalue yourself — research the average bid for similar projects. Underbidding can win you the job, but it sets a low baseline.
- Maintain a high star rating — deliver excellent work, communicate proactively, and meet deadlines. Your rating directly impacts your visibility and hireability.
- Consider a paid membership — once you’re earning consistently, upgrading to a Basic or Plus plan gives you more bids, skills, and lower fees on certain projects.
- Stay active and apply regularly — the algorithm favors active freelancers. Log in daily, respond to messages promptly, and keep your portfolio updated.
- Leverage the time tracker for hourly jobs — this ensures payment protection and gives clients confidence in your billing. Avoid manual time unless you trust the client completely.
- Build long‑term client relationships — repeat clients provide stable income and reduce the need for constant bidding. Ask satisfied clients if they have other work you can help with.
- Promote your services externally — share your Freelancer.com profile on LinkedIn, Twitter, and industry forums to attract direct clients.
- Use the project feed filters — save searches for your ideal project types, budget range, and skills. Apply early to be among the first bids the client sees.
- Read the client’s history before bidding — check their payment verification, past project reviews, and hire rate. Avoid red flags to minimize disputes.
- Keep all communication on‑platform — this creates a record for dispute resolution and keeps you compliant with Freelancer.com’s terms of service.
Critical Platform Rules
General Safety Recommendations
- Enable two‑factor authentication on your Freelancer.com account
- Use a strong, unique password—never reuse it on other sites
- Be cautious of clients who ask for free “sample” work before awarding the project
- For hourly jobs, always use the Freelancer Desktop App with active screenshots
- Report any suspicious job postings or client behavior to the Trust & Safety team
- Keep screenshots of all deliverables, messages, and milestones for your records
- Never grant remote access to your computer unless absolutely necessary and with extreme caution
| Platform | Commission | Difficulty | Min Payout | Best For | Trust Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Freelancer | 10% or $5 | Moderate | $1 | Contests & bidding | 7.8/10 |
| Upwork | 10% | Moderate‑Hard | $1 | Long‑term professional | 9.2/10 |
| Fiverr | 20% | Easy‑Moderate | $1 | Productized services | 9.0/10 |
| Guru | 5–9% | Moderate | $25 | Flexible work terms | 6.5/10 |
| PeoplePerHour | 20% (first £500) | Easy‑Moderate | £20 | UK/European projects | 7.5/10 |
| Toptal | Varies | Very Hard | Varies | Top 3% talent | 9.0/10 |
| 99designs | 5–15% | Moderate | $25 | Design contests | 8.0/10 |
| Freecash | 0% (GPT) | Very Easy | $0.10 | Micro‑tasks & games | 8.5/10 |
Is Freelancer.com legit?
Yes. Freelancer.com is a legitimate, publicly traded company (ASX: FLN) that has operated since 2009. It has processed millions of projects and withdrawals. However, like any large marketplace, scam attempts exist, so follow platform safety rules.
How does Freelancer.com make money?
Freelancer.com earns revenue from freelancer service fees (10% or $5), paid membership subscriptions, promoted project listings, and client transaction fees. The contest model also generates revenue through listing fees.
What is the minimum withdrawal on Freelancer?
The minimum withdrawal is $1 for PayPal, Payoneer, and Skrill. Bank transfers may have a higher minimum depending on your location. Check your “Finances” section for the exact threshold.
How do contests work on Freelancer.com?
A client posts a brief and a prize amount. Freelancers submit their work before the deadline. The client selects a winning entry, and that freelancer receives the prize. Non‑winners may still sell their work if the client is interested.
Does Freelancer.com have a time tracker?
Yes. The Freelancer Desktop App logs hours, tracks activity, and can take optional screenshots. Using it for hourly contracts ensures you are eligible for payment protection.
Can I get paid instantly on Freelancer.com?
No. All payments go through a security clearance period (5–10 days) before becoming available for withdrawal. Withdrawals then take additional processing time depending on the method.
Is Freelancer.com free to join?
Yes. Creating an account and building a profile is free. You receive a limited number of free bids per month. Paid memberships unlock more bids, skills, and lower commissions.
How do I get my first project?
Start with a 100% complete profile, pass skill tests, and bid on smaller, less competitive projects with a reasonable price. Write personalized proposals that directly address the client’s needs. Patience is essential.
What is the Freelancer.com fee structure?
For fixed‑price projects, freelancers pay 10% of the project value, or $5.00, whichever is greater. For hourly projects, the fee is 10% of the billed amount. Memberships can reduce these fees.
How does Freelancer.com handle disputes?
The platform offers a dispute resolution service where both parties present evidence. For fixed‑price projects with funded milestones, the escrow system provides some protection. Hourly disputes rely on the work diary. Resolution can take days or weeks.
Can I work with the same client outside Freelancer?
No. Taking clients off‑platform violates Freelancer.com’s terms and can lead to account closure. All work and payments must remain on the platform for at least the initial contract period.
What is the Preferred Freelancer Program?
An invite‑only program for top‑rated, vetted freelancers. Benefits include a special badge, priority support, access to high‑budget projects, and increased visibility in search results.
Is Freelancer.com safe for payments?
Generally yes, if you follow the rules. Use milestone escrow for fixed‑price and the time tracker for hourly work. Avoid clients who want to pay outside the system, and report suspicious behavior.
How do I contact Freelancer.com support?
Support is available via the Help Center’s ticket system, and limited live chat for urgent issues. Response times are often slower than other platforms; patience is needed.
Can I delete my Freelancer.com account?
Yes. You can close your account from the Settings menu. Withdraw all available funds first. The platform may retain certain data as required by law and for fraud prevention.
Final Verdict
Freelancer.com is a historic, feature‑rich marketplace that remains a viable option for freelancers who embrace competitive bidding and creative contests.
The platform’s unique contest model and massive global user base set it apart from newer, more streamlined competitors. For creative professionals, the ability to win projects without writing proposals is a powerful advantage. The milestone escrow system and time tracker provide solid payment protection when used correctly. And as a publicly listed company, Freelancer.com offers a level of corporate transparency that builds long‑term trust.
However, the intense competition, dated interface, and slower support make it less appealing for beginners or those seeking a frictionless experience. The 10% or $5 fee structure can also eat into small project margins. Still, for determined freelancers willing to invest the effort, Freelancer.com can be a reliable source of income and a gateway to global clients.
Freelancer.com is recommended for experienced freelancers and creative contest enthusiasts who value global reach and are comfortable navigating a highly competitive bidding environment.
Ready to Find Your Next Project?
Join over 60 million freelancers on the world’s largest crowdsourcing marketplace. Start bidding on projects or entering contests for free today.
Create Your Free Account