How to Get Paid as a Freelancer: Top Payment Methods and Tips [2025 Guide]

Freelancing is fun, and the freedom that comes with it is unmatched. But these are true until it’s time to get paid. Figuring out the right payment options to use may be challenging. Read on as I, with the company of our experts Kartik Ahuja and John Butterworth, walk you through the best payment options as a freelancer. Kartik Ahuja is a freelance growth marketing expert with more than 7 years of experience, 300+ websites, and 50k+ designs. On the other hand, John Butterworth is a digital nomad from the UK who lives and works in China and Vietnam. Together, we will give you the best payment options to choose from.

Most popular options

Before you get paid as a freelancer, you have to choose the proper payment method. There are many different options, but each works for different situations. So, you must find the one that fits you best. Here are some of the most popular options:

1. Bank transfers

Bank transfer is one of the oldest and most reliable ways to send money. A bank transfer is all about moving funds from one bank account to another. It’s electronic, safe, and sometimes free. This makes it perfect for larger payments or working with local clients.

Domestic transfers are usually free, or they charge very little. It is best if you are a freelancer who wants to avoid middlemen and get the full payment amount. The process is also pretty simple — clients can send payments directly through online or mobile banking.

However, international bank transfers are actually different. It can take days to process, and the fees are much higher. The cost of international wire transfers is between $5 to $75, depending on your bank. When Kartik started freelancing newly, he worked with a client from the U.S. who paid him $1,000 via international bank transfer. His bank charged him a $30 fee just to receive the money, and the client’s bank took $15 for processing. In total, $45 went straight to fees. 

Another thing that matters is the type of bank transfers.

• ACH transfers (Automated Clearing House). ACH is a U.S.-based network that people commonly use for direct deposits and recurring payments. It is best for freelancers working with U.S. clients who need steady, recurring payments like monthly retainers. This method is usually free or very cheap but can take about 2 to 3 business days to process.
• Direct deposits (via ACH). This is a specific ACH method where clients can directly deposit funds into your account. It is best if you need regular, scheduled payments like payroll or ongoing gigs. It is usually free to receive and is processed within 1 to 2 business days.
• Global ACH. This one is an international extension of ACH, as it can facilitate cross-border payments. I would recommend it if you are a freelancer working with clients outside the U.S., especially in regions with no (Single Euro Payments Area) SEPA access. It takes up to 5 to 10 days to process though.
• SEPA (Single Euro Payments Area). SEPA is a European bank transfer system within the EU/EEA and the UK. Use it if you work with European clients who prefer quick and affordable transactions. It is faster than most international transfers since it gets to the recipient on the same or next business day.

Bank transfers are secure and reversible if a mistake happens. But then you have to check for hidden fees, especially when you are getting paid by an overseas client. 

There are also wire transfers. It is a common way to domestically or internationally send money directly from one bank account to another. Wire transfer is perfect for large payments or when you need the funds urgently. Domestic transfers take a few hours, while international transfers can take 1-5 business days.

This method is perfect if you are working with established clients or companies, especially for big projects. However, wire transfers come with some charges. You’ll typically pay a fee to send the money, which can be from $5 to $75 for international transfers. Clients might also have to cover fees on their end, so you have to clarify who pays for what.

Although wire transfer is a traditional and secure mode of payment they are also risky. A small mistake carries the risk of transferring your money to a wrong account which is almost irreversible. To avoid this, always double-check the details you give to the client before a transaction.

Using wire transfers is suitable for clients who use traditional mode of payments or in case platforms like PayPal are unavailable.

2. PayPal

PayPal is one of the easiest and fastest ways for freelancers to get paid. It has more than 429 million active users and supports payments in multiple currencies. You can send and receive payments online or through their mobile app, and this makes it convenient for both you and your clients.

I would recommend you use PayPal if you want quick, one-time payments or small projects. I think many clients prefer it since it has the Buyer Protection Program, which reassures clients, as it refunds them if something goes wrong. However, the fees are the biggest issue, as they charge up to 5% of the payment amount. It is more expensive to make international transactions, as your client has to add 4% of the amount for the conversation fee 

I preferred to be paid through PayPal when I first started freelancing. It was very easy to quickly set up, receive payments, and I loved it. The first payment I had through it was $150 for a small website project, and seeing that money hit my PayPal account was a huge moment for me. However, the fees were a bit more than normal (around 5% for each transaction), which, of course, added up as time went on. Still, it was a solid start, and with how convenient it was, that made it worth it in the beginning. As I grew, I found better, cheaper options like crypto, but PayPal was a great start.

{{Kartik Ahuja}}

If you work with international clients and you both are in countries where PayPal is accepted, then I'll recommend you go with it. The platform is easy to use, offers fast transactions, and has that buyer protection. So, it is ideal if you offer digital services like graphic design, writing, or web development. 

Most clients also prefer PayPal for small, one-off projects since they can easily pay you without the need to set up complicated payment methods. However, if you are expecting huge money or you work in regions with high PayPal fees like Uganda and UAE, go for other alternatives with lower fees and better exchange rates.

3. Cash or checks

Cash and checks are one of the oldest means of payment which is still used by many freelancers to get paid. Cash, of course, is straightforward — the client hands it over, and the payment is done. Checks work in a similar manner, the only difference being that it goes through a bank with a proper record of the transaction.

Using this mode of payment has a big perk, it has zero additional cost. Which means, you will get the exact amount without any deductions or charges. Plus, there’s no need for tech tools or apps. That makes these methods easy for clients who aren’t comfortable with digital payments.

However, they’re not ideal for everyone. It is risky to carry large amounts of cash, and it’s easy to lose track of payments since there won't be much documentation. 

There’s something satisfying about receiving a check. For me, as I usually get paid through checks for large contracts, it feels more personal. I love its formal nature and the sense of trust it signals. However, the only thing which I don’t like is the time it takes to reflect in my bank account. I prefer checks for jobs where I’ve built long-term relationships and know payments are reliable. Whereas, when I need faster payments, I stick with cryptocurrencies.

{{John Butterworth}}

Many people don't get paid through cash again though. A 2023 IMF study shows it accounts for just 16% of global transactions, with a 6% annual drop expected through 2027. It is great to get paid in cash in some cases, but cash and checks are no longer the go-to for freelancers.

4. Freelance marketplaces

Freelance marketplaces like Upwork and Upwork alternatives are platforms you can find clients, manage projects, and get paid in one place. Most freelancers are paid through these platforms because of their built-in systems like escrow services. This means that they will be the ones to hold your payments until the client approves your work.

I sometimes use Upwork and the likes. I can use them to easily manage payments and clients all in one place. The platform handles everything, so there’s less stress for me. They're more expensive to use. I once got paid $300 and ended up receiving about $250. Because of this, I prefer using marketplaces only for smaller projects or when I'm testing new niches. Upwork is still my favourite, but I always compare other platforms for the best deals.

{{Kartik Ahuja}}

If you are a freelancer who is new to the game or you want steady work, these platforms are great. However, they charge fees for their services. For instance, Fiverr takes a 20% cut on the first $500 of a project, while Upwork charges a sliding scale fee starting at 10% for long-term contracts. The fees sounds like a lot, but to be honest, with this payment method, you can easily manage clients since everything is happening in one place.

I use freelance marketplaces and my favorite is Fiverr. I most times use them to find clients and get paid, especially for short-term projects. I love how flexible and how you can show your skills to a broad audience. The downside is that it is tough to stand out since there is lots of competition, and the fees are much. Most times, I use these platforms for one-off SEO audits or when I want to take on more clients without much commitments. I prefer Fiverr since it's the best for quick, manageable tasks for me.

{{John Butterworth}}

If you get paid through this method, you can withdraw your earnings via bank transfers, PayPal, or any other online payment system. You just have to set up your preferred withdrawal method to access your funds, which is easy to do.

Modern alternatives

1. Solowise

Solowise is a user-friendly platform that helps freelancers and contractors get paid quickly, manage work, and handle contracts. You can use it for free, and that makes it an attractive option if you want convenience for free — which we all do.

I see the platform as near perfect since it helps streamline the whole freelancing process. In one click, you can generate and send invoices, sign contracts quickly with pre-made templates, and even manage your payment history in a secure archive. Clients will transfer payments directly to your Solowise account, and you can withdraw through methods like bank transfers.

Solowise is the best fit for international freelancers. It supports payments in most countries, so you can work with clients worldwide without worrying about how to get paid. Additionally, it will send automated reminders to clients to ensure they pay you on time.

The platform also offers 24/7 support and helps verify clients to ensure they are transparent and you can trust them. Solowise simplifies your workload whether you’re freelancing part-time or working as a full-time contractor. It lets you focus on your projects instead of admin tasks.is a user-friendly platform that helps freelancers and contractors get paid quickly, manage work, and handle contracts. You can use it for free, and that makes it an attractive option if you want convenience for free — which we all do.

I see the platform as near perfect since it helps streamline the whole freelancing process. In one click, you can generate and send invoices, sign contracts quickly with pre-made templates, and even manage your payment history in a secure archive. Clients will transfer payments directly to your Solowise account, and you can withdraw through methods like bank transfers.

Solowise is the best fit for international freelancers. It supports payments in most countries, so you can work with clients worldwide without worrying about how to get paid. Additionally, it will send automated reminders to clients to ensure they pay you on time.

The platform also offers 24/7 support and helps verify clients to ensure they are transparent and you can trust them. Solowise simplifies your workload whether you’re freelancing part-time or working as a full-time contractor. It lets you focus on your projects instead of admin tasks.

2. Cryptocurrencies

Cryptocurrencies, like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and USDT, are digital currencies in which freelancers can receive payments quickly and securely. Unlike traditional payment methods, they don’t rely on banks, which makes them perfect for international transactions or when working with clients who prefer decentralized systems.

I’ve been paid through crypto like BTC and USDT many times, mostly for international projects. What I love is the fast and secure transactions, and how there are no banking fees. I also get to avoid currency conversion problems. But, the value of crypto fluctuates, so it’s a bit risky. I recommend using it for tech-based projects where clients are into crypto. Before choosing crypto, make sure your client is on board and that you’re comfortable with how volatile it is.

{{Kartik Ahuja}}

Crypto payments are best for freelancers who value speed and low transfer fees, especially for cross-border work. Transactions are often processed in minutes, regardless of where the client is. Plus, cryptocurrencies can protect your earnings from exchange rate fluctuations if you work with clients from multiple countries.

However, to use crypto, you need a bit of planning. To get started, the client needs a secure wallet to store their coins and they must have a basic understanding of how blockchain works. While crypto is getting popular — especially among younger clients — it’s still not universally accepted. Additionally, the value of cryptocurrencies can be volatile, meaning the amount you get paid could change if the market shifts.

Getting paid in crypto has its perks, especially with international clients. The process is easy and the transactions are faster than bank transfers. I get paid USDT through my Binance wallet and I love the low fees and global reach. The downside is the market volatility; crypto value drops quickly. I prefer using crypto for web development or digital marketing work. Before you choose crypto, make sure both you and your client understand the risks, and confirm which crypto wallet to use. I personally prefer Trust Wallet, since it is very secure, has a user-friendly interface and supports many cryptocurrencies. All these help make it perfect for handling diverse freelance payments.

{{John Butterworth}}

On the bright side, crypto gives you more control over your payments. There is no need for banks or third-party platforms. So, with this, the fees will reduce.

3. Accounting and invoicing software

Accounting and invoicing software are tools that are made to easily handle your freelance finances. With these programs, you can track income, manage expenses, send invoices, and even handle taxes. Popular ones like FreshBooks, Xero, and Zoho Invoice are best for freelancers who juggle multiple projects and clients.

I say this because, after more than a decade of freelancing, I’ve tried many invoicing tools and found that they stand out for good reasons. When I started, invoicing felt like a chore, so I spent time reading reviews, comparing features, and testing different platforms. FreshBooks is perfect for its simplicity — without overwhelming you, it handles invoicing, expense tracking, and time management. That makes it ideal if you are a small-scale freelancer like a writer or designer.

Xero is perfect if you juggle complex projects or work with accountants. It has advanced features like payroll and inventory management, which help save time. If you have recurring invoices, the automation options are a game changer.

Zoho Invoice, on the other hand, is perfect if you’re always on the move, like a digital nomad. It has a mobile app, which I love so much since it allows me to do quick invoicing. It also has a free plan for freelancers who are just starting out.

4. Digital wallets

It's evident that digital wallets have made it easier to receive payments, they are on the path to become the top used mode of payments. 

So, a digital wallet is nothing but an app that securely stores your payment details and lets you send or receive payments without the need for a bank transfer or physical card. Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay are some of the top used digital payment wallets in the world. 

The reason I love using Google Pay is because of how simple it is to use. At the time of receiving a payment you get an email notifying you about the money transfer. All you have to do is click on “Claim Money” to verify your identity, and the funds will instantly reflect in your Google Wallet. Then, all you have to do is transfer it to the linked bank account and voila, the payment is complete.

How to choose the right payment methods?

Choosing the right payment method is crucial if you want to save time, money, and headaches. But, it's also important to understand what works the best not only for you, but also your client. 

Using cash, checks, or direct bank transfers is perfect if you're working with someone within your locality. However, if you are working with someone digitally, without any local overlap, platforms like PayPal or Stripe are the best. They are not only faster but are also more reliable, especially for international clients.

Fees is another big factor to consider while choosing the right mode of payment. For example, PayPal charges a certain transfer fee for international transfers, which will eventually eat into your earnings. 

Wire transfers also have high fees, so I would suggest you to use them only for larger payments where the cost makes sense. On the other hand, direct deposits or bank transfers cost less which make them a great choice for regular payments.

Do keep in mind that If you’re dealing with a new client, platforms with escrow services (like Upwork or Fiverr), protect your payment until the work is approved. This lowers the risk of not getting paid.

Before I choose the preferred payment method there are 3 key metrics which I check. These are speed, convenience, and the cost. PayPal and crypto are two of my most used payment methods for international clients because they tick all three boxes. For local clients, I prefer direct bank transfers.

{{Kartik Ahuja}}

Choosing a payment method can sometimes be a tiring process. Reliability, speed, and fees are some of the metrics which I check before finalizing. PayPal and wire transfers are my go to mode of payments because of their reliable and secure nature. I avoid mediums which attract high fees unless it's a large project and we don’t have any other reliable options. I also assess how tech-savvy my client is, and If they’re familiar with crypto, I offer that as an option. But for most, traditional methods work the best.

{{John Butterworth}}

Before choosing, think about how easy it is to use. Some clients will want straightforward options like credit cards. Others might prefer flexible systems like cryptocurrencies. What you must do is to always discuss the terms of payment before work begins so there’s no confusion later.

How to invoice clients like a pro

One thing that will help make payment easier and faster is invoicing. So, you have to do it the right way. 

• First, you must plan and prepare for the worst. To be honest, not all clients pay on time. So, with this in mind, you must add terms like due dates and late fees to your invoices. If you are doing bigger projects, request an upfront deposit or milestone payments.
• Add detailed information to your invoices and get straight to the point. List all the services you provided, the cost of each, payment terms, and your preferred payment method. There will be no confusion when your invoices are clear, and the client will likely pay without delays.
• Always send invoices on time. Don’t delay — clients tend to pay sooner if you invoice right after finishing the work. Also, give them more than one payment method to make it easier for them.
• Finally, follow through with the invoices and remind the client of the unpaid salaries. When they pay you, show appreciation — it's polite, and it will make it easy for them to trust you more. You may look at it as little, but gratitudes go a long way.

I invoice through Xero, and with the tool, everything is organized and I can be consistent. The details I include are: the project name, clear itemization of services, and exact terms of payment. To avoid delays, I make it a must to always send my invoices right after I complete the project, no matter how tired I am. I give the client many payment methods: bank transfer, PayPal, and crypto. This is to give them flexibility. One thing I would recommend is to always have a clause for late payments in your contract and stick to it. It shows professionalism and ensures you get paid on time. (Butterworth)

Freelancers, get paid without the stress

After all your hard work and efforts, the last thing that should stress you is getting paid. You will handle payment like a pro when you use the perfect payment method, professional invoicing tools, set clear terms, and put reminders on. Do not forget to give clients more than one payment option to make it easy for them. Additionally, track everything so no one gets confused.

Don’t forget that you’re running a business. So, you have to do your best to ensure you get paid and on time.

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