Process

How PayHold works

A neutral third party holds project funds until both sides fulfill their obligations. Simple structure. Clear milestones. Professional outcomes.

STEP 01

Agree on the deal

Customer and contractor define scope of work, total price, timeline, and payment milestones. Everyone signs off on what “complete” means before money moves.

STEP 02

Open & fund escrow

Start a PayHold transaction and deposit funds into escrow. The contractor can confirm the hold and begin work knowing payment is secured—not assumed.

STEP 03

Work & review

Work proceeds against the plan. Progress can be monitored and reviewed. Releases are tied to approved stages—not vague promises.

STEP 04

Approve & release

When a milestone is approved, that portion is released to the contractor. Remaining funds stay held until the next stage or final walkthrough.

For customers

You stay in control of releases

Depositing into escrow shows good faith without handing over unprotected cash. You authorize disbursements only when work meets the standard you agreed to.

Customer benefits

For contractors

You know the money is real

No more mobilizing on hope. Verified funds in escrow mean you can schedule crews, order materials, and deliver without payment anxiety.

Contractor benefits

FAQ

Common questions

What is contractor escrow?

On PayHold, the customer deposits project funds that PayHold tracks as held for the job. Funds are released to the contractor when the customer authorizes release (usually after milestones are approved). PayHold is a payment-hold platform—not a bank or licensed trust company. Details are in our Escrow Terms.

Who can start a PayHold transaction?

Either party can initiate. Customers often start when a deposit is requested. Contractors can propose PayHold in their quotes to professionalize the payment path.

What kinds of projects is this for?

Construction, transport, equipment operators, landscaping, and service industries— any job where a deposit of good faith is expected and both sides need protection. PayHold is based in British Columbia and available to customers and contractors across Canada (all provinces and territories).

When does the contractor get paid?

When milestones are completed and approved according to the escrow terms. That can include materials deposits, progress stages, and final walkthrough payments.

Does this replace a written contract?

No. PayHold works alongside your construction or services agreement. Clear scope and milestones make releases straightforward. Quality, liens, and holdbacks remain governed by your contract and provincial law—not by PayHold deciding workmanship disputes.

What fees apply?

A 0.5% PayHold service fee applies on funded amounts. Card payments also include Stripe processing (disclosed as 2.9% + $0.30 CAD, grossed up). Fees are shown before you pay and described in the Escrow Terms.

Ready to start?

Building trust between parties—one secure transaction at a time.

Coming soon