FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Everything you need to know about getting paid, fees, hiring, teams, and disputes on Open Lance.
Money & speed
When is money taken?
When the client funds a milestone into escrow, before any work starts.
Who controls when funds are released?
The client. On approval they can release funds instantly, or hold them for a short security period. When both parties agree to instant release, approved milestones pay out immediately with no clearance wait.
When do freelancers get paid?
When the client approves the milestone. If you and the client have agreed to instant release, the funds hit your wallet right away; otherwise they clear after the short security period.
Is the money safe?
Yes. Every job is escrow-protected: funds are committed before work begins and released on approval.
Fees & bidding
Does Open Lance really charge 0% commission?
Yes. Freelancers keep 100% of what they earn. It's our platform rule.
What's a bid?
Sending a proposal costs one bid, flat, regardless of how big the job is.
Do I pay more to win bigger jobs or to outbid others?
No. There's no pay-to-win and no escalating costs. Your reputation wins the work.
How do I get more bids?
Bids are included with the Open Lance Ultra subscription, or you can buy bid packs anytime.
What do clients pay?
Transparent fees shown at checkout, with no hidden cut of your escrow.
Hiring & privacy
How do clients find talent if there's no public directory?
Clients discover talent after signing in, by searching, then inviting freelancers and reviewing their proposals.
Is my profile public?
No. Your profile isn't listed publicly; it's shared with a client only when you engage with them.
Teams
Can I build a team?
Yes. Freelancers can hire bidders and add teammates who bid on their behalf, so you can take on more work and grow beyond solo.
Disputes & safety
What happens in a dispute?
Structured mediation reviews both sides. Any partial settlement is held in escrow for a short security period, never paid out hastily.
How do clients know who to trust?
Verification levels and Open Lance Talent Level signal credibility, without exposing freelancers in a public list.
Accounts
Can I be both a client and a freelancer?
You choose your primary role at sign-up and work in the relevant workspace; reach out if you need both.
How do freelancers withdraw earnings?
From your wallet via your configured payout method, once released funds have cleared.