This policy explains how escrow funding, payment releases, refunds, disputes, and chargebacks are handled on SkillBid. The SkillBid platform uses an escrow-style payment structure designed to protect both clients and freelancers during the lifecycle of a contract.
This policy should be read together with the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy which govern the overall use of the Platform.
1. Escrow Funding
Clients may fund a contract into escrow before work begins. Funds placed into escrow remain secured on the Platform until they are released to the freelancer, refunded to the client, or otherwise resolved through the SkillBid dispute process.
Escrow funding ensures that freelancers have payment security while also allowing clients to verify deliverables before approving release of funds.
2. When Refunds May Be Approved
- Work has not started and both parties mutually agree to cancel the contract.
- The freelancer fails to deliver agreed work within the agreed timeline and the dispute process determines that the client is entitled to a refund.
- A contract is canceled due to fraud, policy violations, compliance requirements, or platform abuse.
- Other circumstances determined by SkillBid after reviewing communication records, deliverables, and contract history.
3. Non-Refundable or Limited-Refund Items
Certain charges may be non-refundable depending on payment processor policies and network costs. These may include:
- Payment processor transaction fees
- Bank processing charges
- Network or gateway processing fees
- Compliance or regulatory verification costs
Where permitted by law and processor rules, SkillBid may deduct non-recoverable fees from refunded amounts.
4. Dispute Resolution
If a dispute arises, both parties may be asked to submit evidence such as messages, files, milestones, or delivery confirmations. SkillBid may review the available evidence and determine whether to:
- Release escrow funds to the freelancer
- Refund funds to the client
- Split funds between both parties
Decisions made by SkillBid regarding escrow disputes are final for the purposes of Platform operations.
5. Refund Processing Timelines
Refund processing times vary depending on the payment method used.
- Card or bank payments typically process within 5–14 business days depending on the issuing bank.
- Mobile money refunds may vary depending on the mobile network provider.
- International payment processors may require additional processing time due to compliance checks.
6. Chargebacks
Unauthorized chargebacks may result in account suspension, restriction, or termination of Platform access.
Where allowed by applicable law and payment processor rules, SkillBid may recover disputed amounts, chargeback penalties, and related administrative costs.
If you believe a transaction is unauthorized, please contact support@myskillbid.com immediately before initiating a chargeback with your bank.
7. Contact Support
For refund requests, disputes, or payment issues, contact SkillBid support at: