How Milestone Payments Work on Indeelancer
Our milestone payment system helps protect both buyers and developers, ensuring fair payment for quality work and reducing project risk.
Indeelancer does not operate a trust account or provide escrow services. Payments are processed and held by Stripe.
The Milestone Payment Process
Milestone Created & Funded
The buyer creates project milestones and funds them via Stripe. Once funded, the money is held securely by Stripe. The developer knows they'll be paid for completed work, and the buyer knows their money is safe.
Developer Works & Submits
The developer completes the milestone and submits their work for review. No payment is released until the work is submitted and reviewed by the buyer.
Buyer Reviews Work
The buyer reviews the submitted work. They can either approve the milestone (releasing payment), request revisions (with specific feedback), or raise a dispute if there's a significant issue.
Payment Released or Dispute Resolved
Funds are released only after the milestone is approved, or after a clearly defined review period if no action is taken. If a dispute is raised, it is reviewed based on documented milestones and platform messages.
Benefits of Milestone Payments
For Buyers
- Only pay when milestones are approved
- Request revisions if work doesn't meet requirements
- Dispute resolution if issues arise
- Funds held securely by Stripe
For Developers
- Secured payment for approved work
- Funds secured before work begins
- Clear expectations and deliverables
- Professional dispute resolution
Frequently Asked Questions
When is payment released to the developer?
Payment is released when the buyer approves the milestone. This typically happens shortly after approval.
What happens if there's a dispute?
If a dispute is raised, our support team reviews the project details, communications, and deliverables to make a fair decision. Both parties have the opportunity to present their case.
Can I request revisions?
Yes, buyers can request revisions if the work doesn't meet the agreed requirements. The developer will be notified with specific feedback on what needs to be changed.
How secure is the milestone payment system?
All payments are processed and held by Stripe, one of the world's most trusted payment processors. Your funds are secured with bank-level security and encryption.
Ready to Start Your Project?
Join Australian businesses and developers hiring with milestone payment protection.