Upshift is a U.S. app for picking up hourly shifts at hotels, event venues, warehouses, manufacturing sites and food service businesses. What sets it apart is worker status: Upshift hires workers as W-2 employees rather than independent contractors, so taxes are withheld and workers’ compensation applies. Launched in 2016, it operates in select U.S. cities, and workers are known as Upshifters.
At a glance
| What it is | App for hourly shifts as a W-2 employee |
| Country | U.S., select cities |
| Industries | Hospitality, events, warehousing, manufacturing, food service |
| Worker status | W-2 employee |
| Pay timing | Next-day pay common, per reviews |
| Onboarding | Profile review and background check |
How it works
You download the app, complete your profile and go through a background check and onboarding, which can take a few days. Shifts near you show the business, role, hours and pay. You claim the shifts you want, work them and are paid by Upshift as your employer.
Why W-2 matters
As a W-2 employee, your taxes are withheld from each payment and you receive a W-2 at tax time. You may be covered by workers’ compensation, and you have the legal protections of an employee. Compared with contractor apps, you don’t need to set money aside for self-employment tax.
Pay
Pay is set per shift and shown before you claim it. Reviews describe next-day pay as standard for most positions, and Indeed reviewers rate pay and benefits around 4.2 out of 5.
Where it works
Upshift operates in select cities across states including Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana and Kansas, among others. Check the app for your area before signing up.
Things to know
Reviews mention a lack of shifts in some cities and strict suspension policies for missed or late-cancelled shifts. Treat claimed shifts as commitments.
Getting started
Complete your profile early, since onboarding and the background check take a few days. Start with shifts close to home to learn how the app and check-in work, and set notifications so you see new shifts quickly.
Keeping records
Even with taxes withheld, keep a note of each shift, hours and pay so you can check your pay stubs. Your W-2 at the end of the year should match your records.
Building a good record
Arrive early, follow the site’s dress code and instructions, and avoid late cancellations. A clean record keeps more shifts open to you.
Owen’s take
Upshift is a good fit if you want gig flexibility without the paperwork of being self-employed. Check shift supply in your city first.
Who it suits
It suits workers who want flexible shifts with employee protections. It suits less well people in cities Upshift doesn’t serve.
Similar options
- Wonolo offers short shifts in many U.S. cities.
- Instawork fills hospitality and warehouse shifts.
- Veryable focuses on manufacturing and logistics.
- Qwick fills hospitality shifts.
More options are in Gig Work.
Pros and cons
Pros
- W-2 status with tax withheld
- Next-day pay for many shifts
- Varied industries
Cons
- Select cities only
- Strict suspension policies
- Onboarding takes a few days
FAQ
Are Upshift workers employees?
Yes, Upshift hires workers as W-2 employees.
How fast does Upshift pay?
Reviews describe next-day pay for most positions.
Where does Upshift operate?
In select cities across several U.S. states.
Do I need a background check?
Yes, as part of onboarding.
What kind of shifts are on Upshift?
Hospitality, events, warehousing, manufacturing and food service.
