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4.3 347 Reviews

UpWork Complaints Summary

13 Resolved
53 Unresolved
Our verdict: When using services from UpWork with a poor resolution rate, be vigilant. Understand the common pitfalls other customers have faced. Prepare thoroughly for any interactions with their customer service, and consider alternative solutions if your issues are not addressed satisfactorily.
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C
1:29 pm EDT

UpWork account suspension

Hello there,

Here I want to inform that again and again my account has been permanently suspended because of a client. Let me explain the case.

I have created this account and I approved this account after trying several times. Then I have worked with so many clients successfully and my job succeed value was 94%. But because one client I have confused. He just wanted me to contact outside of Upwork. I ignore SEVERAL TIMES and I requested him to send me an offer several times but he didn't do it and he asked me to send my bank details. I ignored it more than twice and finally he force me to send and then I sent. That was the only option was.

after that, I complained to the upwork about this issue and you guys suspended my worth account. I am a fresher to upwork and I beg you just kindly refer this matter and give my account back to me. I never ever beg this much if I did this purposely. But this is not my fault. That is why this much begging. I have attached all the screenshots regarding this issue. I am now in suicide mood. I cant earn at least 1 dollar. Even there is no chance to create any other account as well. My designs became just worthless for you guys. Why suspended my account because of another client.

I'm kindly saying this. Beyond the rules please just think about this matter, please. This is the very 1st time. Why you guys cant consider the work I have done with the other clients. It was done by my mistake as a fresher beginner it is normal for everyone. I am 100% sure and I promise this will be the first and last time. I am telling this much because I never ever wanted to cheat on you guys.

Last year you have given a permanently suspended account to a girl like me who faced the same situation. But why you can't do it for me. I am damn poor at this time. I never thought this kind of thing will happen to me. I never ever thought to cheat you guys. I never want to work outside. I need to improve my account and in future, I need to work with you guys. I am so satisfied with Upwork system and I am so much like this platform other than everything. So please give my account back kindly.

Chamika.
Thank you!

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7:15 am EDT

UpWork account suspension without any reason

Hi SIr,

I want to bring to your notice that Upwork suspended my account on the ground which was totally unfair. I had been passed approximately 1 year in this platform and done 24 jobs completed, earning 2k+. Last 2 weeks I had 90 hours to work in my account. 1 week later they suspended my account and cannot tell me about my suspension error. Just one text repeated to the help center mail.

I was not applying to the jobs for a long time. They never even once raised the issue that I have applied to the max. a number of jobs. I just got invitations job and get jobs from clients invitation. But as soon as I landed and completed my first week 90 hours job on Upwork, then suddenly a mail for suspension.

I sucessful verification they asked me to verify my identity through video call which was also successful. After that, I received their e-mail they have suspended my account permanently. I have also Identity verification successfully. My transaction and billing method all are ok. You can see my account. I don't ask the client for 5 start review. I don't work outside of upwork.

So, why I am suspended. My one year working is on down in one second. I worked hard and keep patient for growing my account in here.

This is absolutely Unfair, not giving me a chance to appeal against by permanent account suspension.

I request you to cancel this unfair suspension of my account and activate my account.

Thanks,
Md Abjal Hossain.

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2:15 pm EDT
Verified customer This complaint was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

UpWork account suspended

Hi there,

I want to bring to your notice that Upwork suspended my account on ground which was totally unfair i.e. I have applied to max. number of jobs on Upwork. The most shocking fact was that this account suspension came at a time when I landed and completed my 1st job on Upwork after applying to jobs for a long time.

I was applying to the jobs for a long time. They never even once raised the issue that I have applied to max. number of jobs. But as soon as I landed and completed my first job on Upwork, then sudden need to verify my documents arose and they asked me to verify my documents.

After sucessful verification they asked me to verify my identity through video call which was also successful. After that, on next day I received their e-mail they have suspended my account permanently on charges of applying to max. number of jobs.

This is absolutely Unfair, not giving me a chance to appeal against by permanent account suspension.

I request you to cancel this unfair suspension of my account and reinstate/activate my account.

Thanks,
Pankaj Popli

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D
Devlife
, US
Nov 06, 2018 12:01 pm EST

I encourage you to entertain yet another Upwork horror story, currently unfolding over at LanceBase. A once well-established Upwork freelancer was unjustly and improperly (illegally?) removed from Upwork for simply logging in while traveling. It's quite a good read and it will be interesting to see how Upwork handles this.

https://www.lancebase.com/threads/a-client-told-me-theyll-never-use-upwork-again-heres-why.10637/

ComplaintsBoard
F
2:02 pm EDT

UpWork fake freelancer

We worked with marko sipka on different projects

Marko sipka profile:
https://www.upwork.com/o/profiles/users/_~01deeeb0638389df1e/

Is totally a scam.
He stole money and he should never be trusted.

He is stealing money from clients and employers, used to fake presence and lie.

Do not trust him!
For any reason!

At the beginning looks like a good person but in the end is just a liar!

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K
2:05 am EST

UpWork They disabled my account for no reason

I used this website for my part-time job. Sometimes I had little issues, but I resolved them pretty fast.
Recently I quit my job to dedicate to a full-time freelance. And of course, I wanted to use the UpWork for a start. But all of a sudden I noticed that they disabled my account for no reason. I wrote several emails, but they are left unanswered. No problem, there're different places, but I have a good reputation as a freelancer on UpWork and I still want to get my account back :(

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5:13 am EDT

UpWork Fix it, please

Excuse me, but can't I decide what to do with my account without your participation, huh?
I can't find a decent job on your website, it takes time to find it. I'm 23 and have no experience, so almost no one wants to hire a young lady. I need to have the rating, and I would love to work for this, but this is an endless story. So why then your website makes everything worse for me. Just leave me alone and don't put a private label on my profile. Please, fix it.

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7:05 am EDT
Verified customer This complaint was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

UpWork suspended my account without any strong reason

Yesterday got one mail from upwork, that they suspended my account, reason mentioned that i am putting higher bids for projects, freelancing website have same duties that we put bid for getting projects, in my field competition level is quite high, didn't get projects easily, so on daily basis its mandatory to add bid on different projects, for this reason account was suspended, its not acceptable.

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gopi farhan
, US
Dec 19, 2017 6:27 am EST

They are fraud, same is happen to me also. They only motivating monthly subscription user. please join with me we will raise legal notification against them.

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10:25 am EDT
Verified customer This complaint was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

UpWork I am complaining about taking my earned money

I am Sahak Tadevosyan, a top rated web developer on Upwork.

Yesterday they have held my account without saying anything. They wrote to my clients to look for another dev. What is the worse, they do not let me withdraw my money and have taken the last month's earned money.

I do not want to work with such a unreliable partner, I will continue working with my clients another way. But I demand my money back.

How can you help me?

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M
4:19 am EDT

UpWork account suspended without any reason

Dear Sir/Madam I want to say that my Account on Upwork 441 Logue Ave
Mountain View
California
United States - 94043 was suspended without any reason.When I call them they are not responding.My request is to take an action against Upwork team as soon as possible for suspending my account as soon as possible.Please activate my account as soon as possible.Thanks
With Best Regards

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gopi farhan
, US
Dec 19, 2017 6:28 am EST

They are fraud, same is happen to me also. They only motivating monthly subscription user. please join with me we will raise legal notification against them.

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J
5:06 am EDT

UpWork Can't receive my payment

UpWork was a great place in the past but they have changed a lot in a bad way. I was working on UpWork as a freelancer and received quite a lot of good offers but my recent experience was quite disappointing. I received a job offer, and when I was done with my part of the deal I did not get the payment. They said that I'll get my money within a couple of weeks, but it is now over a month and I keep getting empty promises!
UpWork support promised to help and to contact my client but it doesn't seem like they actually did something to help me.

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K
6:40 am EDT

UpWork Terrible service!!

I was a part of UpWork for a long time but recently I found out that my account was deleted.
I didn't use UpWork for about two months because I had my personal reasons and while I was away the cancelled my account. When I contacted UpWork they were not able to explain what was the reason, and the worst part was when they said that they were not able to get my account back. They said that if I still was interested in their service I could make another account!
With that kind of attitude they clearly showed that they were not interested in helping me. Terrible service!

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6:13 am EDT

UpWork Upwork suspended my account without notice

Hello sir/mam,

2 Month ago Upwork permanent suspended my account. Last 4 years i am working only on Upwork. This is only way my income. I am Loyal member of upwork. I am started working on 2010. Many time i am sending request regarding account reopen but upwork not responding very well.

Upwork not understand any freelancer situation i am sending twice apology mail but it didn't change his decision.

My profile URL:- https://www.upwork.com/fl/hirengohel
Work History
5, 142 hours worked
59 jobs
$30k+ earned

Please reactivate my account asap.

I am waiting upwork positive response.

Regards,
Hiren Gohel

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gopi farhan
, US
Dec 19, 2017 6:29 am EST

They are fraud, same is happen to me also. They only motivating monthly subscription user. please join with me we will raise legal notification against them.

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N
3:10 am EST

UpWork Customer service regarding suspended accounts.

They have outsourced their entire management now the result is complete garbage. My wife and I were permanently suspended because their automated system wrongly detected that we were the same person fraudulently creating multiple accounts. We have both worked together there since 2008, identity verified, and earned about $10k each. We are both real people and live together which is why we share the same devices. No discussion is being entertained by their help and support, yet the kicker is the agent holding me accountable for the 10 cent test payment which is stuck in limbo, since neither of us can use our accounts:

Request #[protected]
Accounts suspended over a test payment of ten cents that didn't even go through.

Avatar Nick Mares Yesterday at 11:34
My wife and I were testing sending and recieving payments because we haven't used this site in three years and our payment methods were no longer current. We have had our accounts since 2008. Please don't delete them over a test payment of ten cents that didn't even go through.

Avatar Annelyn Mae B. Yesterday at 13:33
Hello Nick Mares,

I’ve checked your account and regret to inform you that our review committee’s decision is final.

They’ve evaluated all aspects of your account and determined that your account will not be reopened. The policy violation(s) were simply too serious, and I’m not able to reverse this decision.

We wish you good luck in your career.

Regards,
Annelyn
Upwork Customer Support | support.upwork.com
Avatar Annelyn Mae B. Yesterday at 14:16
Dear Nick,

Hi again!

As for your concern regarding your finacial account being put on hold for a negative balance, you will need to settle the issue by contacting PayPal support or you will need to add another verified billing method on file. You can also communicate with the freelancer to refund the amount to you by having the freelancer contact us so we can reverse the amount for you.

I hope I was able to address your concern. If you need further assistance or experience any additional issues, please submit a new ticket using this link and one of our team members will be more than happy to help.

Regards,
Annelyn
Upwork Customer Support | support.upwork.com
Avatar Nick Mares Yesterday at 15:55
I'm confused by your 2 different responses. What exactly was the policy(s) that we violated?

Avatar Nick Mares Yesterday at 19:58
My wife and I do not have double accounts. We have both worked together on odesk since 2008, identity verified, and earned about $10k each. We are both real people and live together which is why we share the same device(s).

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1:12 am EST

UpWork Didn't receive the payment

I was looking for a job and found this website UpWork which seemed trustworthy enough. I decided to give it a try and made an account and was lucky enough - got my first (and last) project! After work was completed I was supposed to get the payment, but no one ever paid me. Then I contacted UpWork and explained what happened but they did not care. They said they'll try to help and next day I found out that my account was cancelled. UpWork is just a waste of time and it a real scam site! Do not waste you time there as a freelancer!

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7:39 am EST

UpWork Account suspended without any explanation

Hi I was working on an active job and suddenly out of nowhere my account got suspended and there was no case even of Payment Policies not obeying. I didn't have any such discussion. Submitted my request to Support Team couple of times now with no response or update till date.

I am helpless as have no clue what needs to be done next. Is there any better way of communicating directly or else if they can reach to me

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gopi farhan
, US
Dec 19, 2017 6:30 am EST

They are fraud, same is happen to me also. They only motivating monthly subscription user. please join with me we will raise legal notification against them.

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T
6:09 am EST

UpWork Account suspension

Upwork support people, suspended my account and now they will going to close it:

- Problem is with payment outside the Upwork.

First of all, Upwork support people suggest me to go for the payment outside of Upwork.
Second, Payment outside has been made, but not me and not on my account.

They suspended my account just for talking about paypal, without any good evidence. They do not want to admit their mistakes and Upwork support people protect each other, even if they do not have concrete evidence for their conclusion. They just concluded at their own.

Upwork support helper suggest me to go for the paypment with the client outside Upwork. Please find attached documents

They told me that they closed my account because I accepted the payment, at first. But then, after I proofed my self, that I didn't they do not want to change their mind, because they protect them self. They even told me that simple attempt can be enough to suspend account. I tried to ask according to which rule is attempt illegal, but didn't get the answer.

In section of Upwork are working people who do not know how to do their job, people who do not know what's mistake and they do not want to accept their mistakes.

If you do not believe me, please check their test scores on Upwork. Their score is around average or bellow it.

Best regards,

Toma

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9:02 pm EDT
Verified customer This complaint was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

UpWork Payment reversed by upwork after complete the project with 5 star rating and review

I have completed my project with 5 star rating and good review but client refund his payment from upwork. than upwork reversed my whole project payment and give to client.
I want my payment from upwork.

contract id: [protected]
client: avi gal
Contact url:https://www.upwork.com/jobs/~0174214de56052ae13
client skype id:avigaltel1

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7:38 am EDT

UpWork Fraudulent website!

I used UpWork three times and worked as a freelancer. First time when I completed my work I had some difficulties with receiving the payment, but in the end I got my money. Second time I got only partial payment and was totally ignored by a person which hired me.
The third time I received no money at all. I contacted UpWork customer service and explained what happened and asked for help. They did nothing at all and my issue was never resolved. I sent them numerous emails and then they just blocked me and later deleted my account!
So think twice and better do not use this service.

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1:29 am EDT

UpWork Dreadful website!

I was searching for a job as a freelancer and joined www.upwork.com. Then I received a message from a person which said he was working for reputable a company and they needed someone to make a new website for them. I was so happy and agreed. Then I was interviewed on Skype by that person and he said my skills and previous works were great, so he hired me. Few hours later he asked me to go out. I told him that I don't want to go anywhere and he offered me money! He said that he was lonely and wanted to spend a night with me and asked if $500 was ok or I wanted more! This maniac found me on UpWork! Beware!

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8:35 am EST

UpWork Beware of Upwork.

The way UpWork runs a business is absolutely terrible! I needed to make a website, so I've decided to try this site and I was hoping to find a professional, who would help me. When he finished his job I was absolutely terrified! My site looked terrible and I had to pay and make another one! I suggest everyone to stay away from this place. Upwork customer service doesn't really care how professional their freelancers are, they want only money! As a business owner I will never use this website ever again!

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UpWork Customer Reviews Overview

Upwork is a popular online platform that connects businesses with freelancers from all over the world. The website has received numerous positive reviews from clients and freelancers alike. One of the most significant advantages of Upwork is its user-friendly interface, which makes it easy for clients to post job listings and for freelancers to find work that matches their skills and experience.

Another positive aspect of Upwork is the variety of job categories available, ranging from web development and graphic design to writing and translation services. This diversity ensures that clients can find the right freelancer for their project, regardless of the industry or niche.

Upwork also offers a range of tools and features that make it easy for clients to manage their projects and communicate with freelancers. These include time tracking, invoicing, and messaging tools, which help to streamline the entire process and ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget.

Freelancers who use Upwork also benefit from the platform's payment protection policies, which ensure that they are paid for their work and that clients are satisfied with the results. This gives freelancers peace of mind and helps to build trust between clients and freelancers.

Overall, Upwork is a reliable and efficient platform that offers a range of benefits for both clients and freelancers. With its user-friendly interface, diverse job categories, and payment protection policies, it is no wonder that Upwork has received so many positive reviews from users around the world.

UpWork In-depth Review

In summary, UpWork is a very good platform for freelancers and businesses looking to hire. It has many services and a wide range of skills. The site is easy to use, and there is good support for when problems happen. But, it can be a bit expensive, and sometimes it is hard to choose because there are so many freelancers. Now, let's talk more about each part.

1. Overview of UpWork

UpWork is a big marketplace for freelancers. People and companies can find professionals for many kinds of jobs, like writing, programming, and design. It is a place where you can hire or get hired from all over the world.

2. Services Offered

UpWork offers services like job posting, freelancer search, and tools for managing projects. They also have a system for time tracking and making payments safe.

3. Ease of Use and Interface

The website is easy to use. You can find things quickly, and it is simple to post a job or to apply for work. The design is clean and not confusing.

4. Quality of Freelancers and Professionals

There are many skilled freelancers on UpWork. But, because there are so many, sometimes it is hard to find the best one. It is important to look at their profiles and past work.

5. Range of Skills and Expertise Available

UpWork has freelancers with many different skills. You can find people for small tasks or big projects in areas like tech, creative work, and business services.

6. Pricing and Value for Money

UpWork can be expensive because they take a fee from what you pay to freelancers. But, if you find the right person, it can be worth the money.

7. Project Posting and Bidding Process

When you post a job, freelancers will send proposals. You can choose who to hire by looking at their bids, profiles, and reviews.

8. Communication and Collaboration Tools

UpWork has good tools for talking with freelancers and working together. You can message, share files, and even video call inside the platform.

9. Payment Systems and Financial Security

The payment system is safe. UpWork makes sure that freelancers get paid and that clients are happy with the work before releasing the money.

10. Dispute Resolution and Support Services

If there is a problem, UpWork has a process for solving disputes. They also have customer support to help with any issues.

11. Success Stories and Case Studies

There are many stories of people and companies who have been successful with hiring or working on UpWork. These can be found on their website.

12. User Reviews and Ratings

Freelancers and jobs have reviews and ratings. This helps to choose who to hire or what jobs to apply for.

13. Mobile App Functionality

UpWork has a mobile app. It is useful for messaging and checking on jobs when you are not at your computer.

14. UpWork Policies and Guarantees

UpWork has policies to protect clients and freelancers. They make sure that the work is done well and that people get paid.

15. Comparison with Competing Platforms

Compared to other sites, UpWork has more jobs and freelancers. But, it can be more expensive and competitive.

16. Opportunities for Professional Growth

Freelancers can grow by getting good reviews and more experience. UpWork also offers tests to show skills.

17. Community and Networking Features

There is a community forum where you can talk with other users. This is good for making connections and learning.

18. Security Measures and Data Protection

UpWork takes care of your personal and payment information. They have strong security to protect data.

19. Accessibility and International Reach

People from many countries use UpWork. It is available in many languages and you can pay in different currencies.

20. Final Verdict and Recommendations

UpWork is a good choice if you need to hire freelancers or want to work as one. It is safe and has many options. But, remember to check the fees and reviews carefully. It is a good idea to start with a small project to learn how it works.

How to file a complaint about UpWork?

Here is a guide on how to file a complaint against UpWork on ComplaintsBoard.com:

1. Log in or create an account:
- Start by logging into your ComplaintsBoard.com account or create a new one if you don't have an account yet.

2. Navigating to the complaint form:
- Locate and click on the 'File a Complaint' button on the ComplaintsBoard.com website. You can find this button at the top right corner of the website.

3. Writing the title:
- Summarize the main issue with UpWork in the 'Complaint Title' section.

4. Detailing the experience:
- Provide detailed information about key areas of concern.
- Mention any relevant transactions with the company.
- Describe the nature of the issue.
- Include steps taken to resolve the problem and the company's response.
- Explain the personal impact of the issue.

5. Attaching supporting documents:
- Remember to attach any additional supporting documents but avoid including sensitive personal data.

6. Filling optional fields:
- Use the 'Claimed Loss' field to state any financial losses.
- Specify the desired outcome in the 'Desired Outcome' field.

7. Review before submission:
- Review your complaint for clarity, accuracy, and completeness before submitting.

8. Submission process:
- Submit your complaint by clicking the 'Submit' button.

9. Post-Submission Actions:
- Regularly check for responses or updates related to your complaint on ComplaintsBoard.com.

Ensure each step is clearly defined to guide users effectively through the process of filing a complaint against UpWork on ComplaintsBoard.com.

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