Verify your identity as a freelancer

Freelancers on Upwork may be asked to verify their identity for security, compliance, or access to certain jobs, and they may be able to initiate verification to become eligible for the identity verification badge (this feature is not available to everyone yet). Verification can involve submitting a government ID, confirming location, visual matching, or phone confirmation. Users must comply within seven days, and data is securely handled and deleted after 30 days.

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Note: We may require frequent identity verifications to maintain a secure and fraud-free environment. This is part of routine checks and does not necessarily indicate any issues with your account.

In this article

• When and why am I asked to verify my identity?
• How do I verify my identity when asked?
• Can I verify my identity before Upwork asks me to?
• What types of identity verification does Upwork use?
• What do I need to prepare for identity verification?
• Which IDs are accepted for identity verification?
• Tips for taking your ID photo
• How long does identity verification take?
• What happens if I don't verify my identity?
• What about my privacy and identity verification?

When and why am I asked to verify my identity?

You’ll be notified by email and/or when you log in if verification (or re-verification) is required. Once notified, you’ll have seven days to verify, or your account may be put on hold.

Knowing people are who they say they are is important for everyone's security and may be needed for regulatory compliance. You might be asked to verify if:

• You're new and just getting started
• You're applying to U.S.-only jobs
• There’s a need to confirm account ownership, including the U.S. Government Know Your Customer (KYC) compliance program
• Your account was suspended and you're resuming activity
• Upwork detects a possible mismatch or risk
• You’re being re-verified periodically

How do I verify my identity when asked?

Once you receive an email from us asking you to verify, select the link and follow the instructions from there. If you’ve gotten multiple requests to verify your account, just follow the instructions from the most recent message — that’s the one that matters.

Can I verify my identity before Upwork asks me to?

Yes. Freelancers can choose to verify their identity and get the identity verification badge displayed on their profile for 35 Connects. Learn more about the identity verification badge. (Note: This feature is being rolled out gradually and is not available to everyone yet.)

What types of identity verification does Upwork use?

Depending on your situation, you might be asked to complete one or more of the following:

• Government ID — Upload a valid, government-issued photo ID with your name, photo, date of birth, and address (address not required for passports)
• Location for U.S.-only jobs — Proof you’re physically in the U.S. for certain jobs
• Government ID and location — For regulatory compliance
• Visual — A short video call or phone photo to confirm the person in your ID matches your profile photo
• Phone number — Enter a code sent via SMS or call to confirm

What do I need to prepare for identity verification?

• A valid government-issued photo ID. Country on ID and profile must match
• Your Upwork profile photo must clearly show you, as you currently look
• Names must match across your ID, withdrawal method, and tax info. Upwork will use the name on your ID as your verified name. Name mismatch? Contact support
• A phone with a working camera (to scan a QR code)

Which IDs are accepted for identity verification?

Your ID must include: photo, signature, name, date of birth, and address (unless it’s a passport).

Accepted IDs include:

• Passport
• Driver’s license
• National ID card (NIC/CNIC)
• NBI Clearance (Philippines)
• Tax or voter ID
• Postal ID
• Other valid government-issued photo IDs with required info
• Documents for refugees/asylum seekers (e.g., UNHCR, Asylum Seeker Certificate)

Not accepted:

• Student, employee, or library cards
• Photocopies or temporary paper IDs
• Military or health cards
• Anything handwritten or expired

Tips for taking your ID photo

• Ensure your ID photo is taken in a well-lit area without glare or reflections to prevent rejections due to poor image quality. Don’t use flash or filters
• Position your ID so that all edges, text, and details are clear and readable. Don't cover any part of your ID
• Lay your ID flat on a dark surface
• Take the photo from directly above (no angles)

How long does identity verification take?

Most users are verified within minutes after submitting clear, matching info. If we need more time to review, we’ll notify you by email.

Note: Your identity verification badge will only appear after you accept your first contract.

Having trouble with the verification process?
If it’s stalling or timing out, here are a few quick things to try:

• Clear your browser’s cache and cookies

• Double-check that all four corners of your ID are clearly visible in the image

• If things still aren’t working, try switching to a different browser or device

What happens if I don't verify my identity?

If you don’t complete verification:

• You can’t submit proposals, accept direct hire offers, or withdraw earnings
• Active proposals will be deleted (Connects will not be refunded)
• Your account may be suspended
• In serious cases, funds may be returned to clients

Deliberately uploading falsified documentation is a crime and will result in permanent suspension. Upwork may report attempts to submit fake documents.

What about my privacy and identity verification?

Upwork is serious about protecting your personal data:

• Your information is governed by Upwork’s privacy policy
• We don’t sell your data
• ID images are deleted after 30 days
• Clients only see that you're verified—not your documents

Frequently asked questions