How to Buy/Get/Earn Connects on Upwork

Updated on:

May 12, 2026

By:

Use this interactive demo to learn how to purchase and manage Connects on Upwork.

Quick summary

Upwork Connects are the tokens freelancers use to submit proposals to job postings. Free members receive 10 Connects per month, and additional Connect bundles can be purchased directly from Account Settings or the Upwork dashboard.

Steps

Select 'Account Settings' from your Upwork profile menu.
Select 'Membership & Connects' from the settings navigation.
Review your current Connects balance — free members receive 10 Connects each month as part of basic membership.
Alternatively, go back to your Upwork dashboard, scroll down, and select 'Connects'.
Click 'Buy Connects' to open the purchase flow.
Choose a Connect bundle from the available options — Connects are sold in bundles.
Enter a promo code if you have one to apply a discount.
Click 'Apply' to validate the promo code.
Select 'Buy Connects' to complete the purchase.

📌 Why this matters

Upwork Connects are the gateway to landing freelance work — without enough Connects, freelancers cannot submit proposals or compete for jobs on the platform. Understanding how to buy, earn, and manage Connects helps freelancers stay active, respond to more opportunities, and maximize their return on the platform. For new or growing freelancers, knowing where to find the Membership & Connects settings and how to purchase Connect bundles efficiently can directly impact their ability to win clients and grow their income on Upwork.

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