Marketplace
Upwork
The largest open freelance marketplace, with built-in contracts and payments.
Upwork is an open marketplace where you post a job, review proposals, and hire freelancers from anywhere. It handles contracts, time tracking, and payments, and charges fees on top of freelancer rates. With such a large pool, a clear job post and a short test task help you find top talent fast.
At A Glance
Headquarters
United States
Regions Served
Global
Pricing Model
Freelancer-set hourly or fixed rates plus platform fees
Best For
Owners who want to screen and manage freelancers themselves
Specialties
General assistants, admin, design, writing, development, marketing
Price Tier
Budget
Engagement
Hourly
What Upwork Does
You control the whole process: writing the post, screening, interviewing, and managing. Upwork’s tools cover contracts, hourly time tracking, and payment protection.
Because the pool is huge, a good job post attracts strong candidates quickly. Reviews, job success scores, and a short test task make it easy to choose well.
How Pricing Works
Upwork uses a freelancer-set hourly or fixed rates plus platform fees model. Marketplaces let workers set their own rates and add a platform fee on top. You pay only for the hours or projects you use, and you keep full control over who you choose and how the work runs.
Who It Is Best For
Upwork is a strong fit for owners who want to screen and manage freelancers themselves. Its talent is based in Global, so check that the time zones line up with the hours you need covered.
Good Questions To Ask On Your First Call
Start with a paid test task to find your best fit quickly.
Use the platform’s contracts and payment protection for peace of mind.
Read recent reviews and work samples to find the best match.
Profiles on this site are written from public information and are not endorsements. Confirm current pricing and terms on the company’s website before you decide.
Roles They Commonly Fill
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Not Sure Which Model Fits?
Read how the four kinds of virtual assistant companies differ, then decide how much of the work you want to keep.
Before You Commit
Questions To Ask Any Virtual Assistant Company
Use these on the first call. Clear answers are a good sign. Vague ones tell you something too.
Who employs the assistant, and who pays them?
The answer decides your legal exposure, your costs, and who handles problems.
What exactly did you check before introducing this person?
Ask for the English test, the skills assessment, and the reference calls, not a summary.
What happens if it is not working after two weeks?
Replacement terms, refund windows, and notice periods should be in writing.
Which hours will they work, and in what time zone?
Overlap with your day matters more than the region name on the website.
How do you handle data security and access?
Passwords, customer data, and payment details need a process, not a promise.
What is the total monthly cost, including fees?
Placement fees, platform fees, and payroll charges add up. Get one number.
Prefer A Managed Search?
We recruit in Latin America, the Philippines, and South Africa, vet every candidate, and send you a shortlist. You make the final call.