Payments·5 min read·4 March 2026
Secure payment flow explained for customers and providers
A simple guide to platform payment states, release timing, and dispute-safe evidence.
A simple guide to platform payment states, release timing, and dispute-safe evidence.
WorkMate's payment system is built around a secure hold model: customers pay before work starts, funds are held safely, and providers receive payment only after the customer confirms the job is done. Here's how each stage works and what it means for both sides.
When a customer accepts a provider's offer, they are prompted to confirm payment. At this point, the agreed amount is authorised (held) on their card — meaning the funds are reserved but not yet charged. The provider can see the job has a confirmed payment and can begin work confidently.
Nothing is taken from the customer's account yet. The hold typically appears on a bank statement as a pending transaction.
Both parties agree on timing and access. For time-tracked jobs, the provider uses the WorkMate timer to log hours worked. For fixed-price jobs, the provider completes the deliverables and marks the job as done.
Once the provider marks the job complete, the customer receives a notification to review and release payment. When the customer approves, funds are captured (charged) and transferred to the provider's connected Stripe account, minus the platform commission.
If the customer does not respond within the auto-release window (default: 48 hours after completion), funds are released automatically to protect the provider.
Providers receive earnings directly to their bank account via Stripe Connect. Payout timing depends on the provider's Stripe account country and settings — typically 2–7 business days for Irish bank accounts.
Either party can open a dispute at any point during the job. Disputes pause automatic release and route the case to the WorkMate resolution team. To protect yourself in a dispute:
Disputes are reviewed within 7 days. Resolution team decisions are final for jobs under €500; escalation to a senior reviewer is available for larger amounts.
WorkMate charges a tiered commission on each completed job. The commission is deducted from the provider's earnings before payout. Customers pay the quoted price in full — there are no booking fees on the customer side.
Tips
Use scope, urgency, and budget clarity to improve response quality from providers.
Security
Understand pending, approved, and rejected document states with next-step recommendations.