Why has Skyword chosen to implement a fee on freelance contributor income earned through its platform?
Like many organizations, Skyword is facing rising operational costs, including expenses for contributor recruitment, management, support, and payment processing. To date, freelance contributors have incurred no fees for access to our network, technology, in-house support, and payment services. The new 10% fee will help us maintain these resources and continue supporting our freelance community.
Why did Skyword choose a 10% fee?
We made this decision after extensive analysis of operational costs, competitive fee structures, and direct input from analysts and members of the freelance community. This shift aligns us with standard practices across the content creation industry, while ensuring our fee remains significantly lower than those of most other platforms.
When will the 10% fee go into effect?
The contributor fee will apply to income earned from assignments opened on or following October 16, 2025.
Does the fee apply to assignments issued before October 16, 2025?
No. Income from assignments issued before October 16, 2025, will not incur a fee, even if payment is processed after that date.
How are existing contributors being notified of the 10% fee?
Contributors will receive a direct email from Skyword CEO Andrew Wheeler announcing the fee rollout.
How are new contributors notified of the 10% fee? How will this be visible in the platform?
Notice of the 10% fee will be included in platform Terms and Conditions. All freelance contributors are required to read and accept these terms as part of the account creation process. Acceptance must take place before any work can be assigned to them through the platform. Freelancers recruited to Skyword programs through our custom talent acquisition services will also be made aware of the fee as part of the recruitment and onboarding process, ahead of account creation.
Does the fee impact payment timing and cadence?
No. Payments will continue on the same schedule, without disruption.
Can contributors increase their rate to offset the 10% fee?
As always, contributors have the ability to accept or decline assignments offered to them at fixed rates, and to bid on assignments with rates they set or negotiate. However, we always encourage contributors to put forward their most competitive rates based on the assignment requirements.