Should we need to paying Fees for Part-Time-Job on Upwork & Freelancer in 2025?

 

Finding a part-time job in 2025 has never been easier, thanks to freelancing platforms. However, many people wonder whether Upwork and Freelancer.com are worth the cost. Should you pay money just to apply for a job? Are there better free alternatives?

In this blog post, I’ll share my personal experience, why I never received the 10 free Connects on Upwork, and the best free freelancing websites to start your career without spending a dime.

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Do You Have to Pay to Find a Job on Upwork and Freelancer?

1. Upwork Fees & Payment System

• Upwork is one of the most popular freelance platforms, but it’s not entirely free.

• You need Connects to apply for jobs. Each job application costs between 1-8 Connects.

• Upwork claims to give freelancers 10 free Connects per month, but I have never received them, and I don’t know why. Many freelancers report the same issue.

• If you run out of Connects, you must buy more (pricing starts at $0.15 per Connect).

• Upwork charges 10% commission on all your earnings.

💡 Conclusion: You might need to invest money before earning—which feels unfair for beginners.

2. Freelancer.com Fees & Payment System

• Freelancer.com also requires money to apply for jobs.

• You get 6 free bids per month (used to submit proposals).

• After using them, you must pay for extra bids or buy a Freelancer Plus subscription ($4.95/month).

• Freelancer.com takes a 10% commission or $5 minimum per project.

💡 Conclusion: You may spend money before earning, and with high competition, landing a job is tough.

Is It Worth Paying for Upwork or Freelancer?

💰 Upwork and Freelancer.com are best if you:

✔ Have a strong profile and past experience.

✔ Can afford to pay for Connects or bids.

✔ Know how to write winning proposals.

🚫 Not recommended if you:

❌ Are a beginner with no prior freelance work.

❌ Don't want to invest money before earning.

❌ Prefer platforms where clients come to you instead.

If you’re just starting, I don’t recommend paying for these platforms. Instead, use free freelancing websites where you can find jobs without spending money.

>> Recommend: The 2025 Blueprint: How I Built a Sustainable Online Income From Scratch

Best Free Platforms to Find Part-Time Jobs in 2025

💡 The best way to start freelancing is by using platforms that don’t charge upfront fees. Here are some top options:

1. Fiverr (Best for Beginners)

• No need to apply for jobs—clients come to you.

• You create a gig (service listing) and wait for buyers.

• Fiverr takes 20% commission but no upfront fees.

🔹 Best for: Graphic design, writing, video editing, social media management.

2. PeoplePerHour (Good for Small Projects)

• You get 15 free applications per month.

• Clients can invite you to projects without using applications.

• Commission rates start at 20% but reduce as you earn more.

🔹 Best for: Writing, translation, marketing, programming.

3. We Work Remotely (No Bidding Required)

• Free job board with remote part-time jobs.

• No bidding—just apply directly to open positions.

• Many high-quality companies post jobs here.

🔹 Best for: Customer support, virtual assistant, content writing.

4. AngelList (Best for Startup Jobs)

• Free platform to find remote work at tech startups.

• No bidding—apply directly for part-time or full-time jobs.

• Great for those interested in working with startups.

🔹 Best for: Programming, design, marketing, business development.

5. Outsourcely (Free for Remote Work)

• 100% free to create a profile and apply for jobs.

• Focuses on remote part-time and full-time jobs.

• No bidding system—just send applications.

🔹 Best for: Customer service, data entry, transcription.

6. Toptal (For High-Skilled Freelancers)

• Free to apply, but strict screening process.

• Only top freelancers (top 3%) get accepted.

• High-paying projects with premium clients.

🔹 Best for: Developers, designers, financial experts.

Final Thoughts: How to Find a Part-Time Job Without Paying Fees

If you’re new to freelancing, paying for Upwork or Freelancer.com may not be worth it. These platforms charge fees just to apply for jobs, making it harder for beginners.

Instead, start with free platforms like Fiverr, PeoplePerHour, AngelList, and We Work Remotely to build experience and earn money without upfront costs. Once you gain experience, you can try Upwork or Freelancer if needed.

💬 Have you faced issues with Upwork’s free Connects like I have? Let me know in the comments!