1. Scope
This Cancellation and Refund Policy (“Policy”) applies to all services facilitated through our platform, including project postings by Clients and service engagements with Providers.
2. Escrow and Payment Hold
- All project fees are deposited by the Client into an escrow account prior to work commencement.
- Funds remain in escrow until released by milestone approval or automatic release per Section 6.
3. Client‑Initiated Cancellation
- Before Provider Acceptance
• A Client may cancel a posted project at any time before a Provider accepts.
• 100% of escrowed funds will be returned to the Client within 5 business days.
- After Provider Acceptance, Before Work Begins
• If a Client cancels after acceptance but before any milestone work starts, the Client may receive a full refund minus a 5% platform fee.
• Refunds will be processed within 7 business days.
4. Provider‑Initiated Decline
- If a Provider declines an accepted project before starting work, all escrowed funds return to the Client in full within 5 business days. No fees apply.
5. Milestone Cancellations and Refunds
- Incomplete or Unsatisfactory Milestone
• A Client may request a partial refund if a completed milestone fails to meet agreed specifications.
• The Client must submit a detailed refund request within 5 days of milestone delivery.
• The Project Manager will mediate; if mediation finds the Provider at fault, the Client receives a pro‑rata refund for that milestone.
- Approved Milestone
• Once the Client approves a milestone or 7 days elapse without dispute, funds are released to the Provider and are non‑refundable.
6. Automatic Release
- If the Client does not respond to a completed milestone notification within 7 calendar days, funds automatically release to the Provider.
7. Dispute‑Driven Refunds
- For disputes escalated under our Dispute Resolution process, any approved refund is issued within 14 business days after the final decision.
8. How to Request a Refund
- Log in and navigate to “My Projects” → select the project.
- Click “Request Refund” next to the relevant milestone or project.
- Complete the refund form, providing details and supporting evidence.
- Our Project Manager will review and respond within 5 business days
Or
Directly Mail us at info@theexpertcommunity.com
9. Exceptions
- No refunds are available for work approved by both parties.
- Platform fees are non‑refundable.
10. Contact
For cancellation or refund inquiries, please email support@yourdomain.com.
Last updated: 20/07/2025