Freelance Marketplaces
Freelance marketplaces work in both directions. Freelancers use them to find their first clients and fill gaps between referrals; small businesses use them to hire a designer, bookkeeper or developer for a defined project without adding payroll. Platforms differ mainly in how they vet talent, how they charge fees, and whether you bid on jobs or sell fixed packages.
Portfolio communities like Dribbble and Behance are also hiring channels for creative work, and local-service apps connect tradespeople with nearby customers. If you are self-employed, the IRS self-employed tax center and Freelancers Union cover taxes, contracts and benefits.
General freelance platforms
Creative & specialist
Local services
Freelancer resources
How to choose
- Read the fee structure for both sides: some platforms charge the freelancer, some the client, many charge both.
- Hire with a small paid test task before committing to a large project.
- Write project briefs with deliverables, deadline and budget; clear briefs attract better proposals.
- As a freelancer, specialize your profile. "Shopify developer for apparel brands" outperforms "web developer".
- Keep communication and payment on the platform while you rely on its payment protection.
Frequently asked questions
Upwork or Fiverr?
On Upwork, clients usually post jobs and freelancers send proposals, which suits ongoing or custom work. On Fiverr, freelancers list fixed-price service packages that buyers order, which suits well-defined tasks.
Do I need to send a 1099 to freelancers I hire on a platform?
It depends on how you pay. Payments made through a payment card or third-party network may be reported by the platform instead. Payments you make directly to a US contractor often require a Form 1099-NEC. Check current IRS rules or ask your tax preparer.
How do freelancers pay taxes?
Self-employed people generally pay income tax plus self-employment tax, usually through quarterly estimated payments. The IRS self-employed tax center explains the forms and deadlines.
Are vetted marketplaces worth the higher price?
For senior or business-critical work, vetted networks like Toptal save screening time. For smaller tasks, open marketplaces with good reviews are usually more cost-effective.
Descriptions are written by ShopStart and are not endorsements. Features and prices change; confirm details on each provider's official site. Something missing or out of date? Tell us.