WHAT IS ESCROW?

Escrow is a security mechanism where the buyer's money is held by a trusted third party (Stripe) until the transaction is fully completed.

This protects the buyer against non-delivery, and protects the artist against unfair cancellations after delivery.

HOW THE ESCROW WORKFLOW WORKS

Here are the steps of an escrow transaction on ARTEDUSA:

• 1. The buyer pays with their credit card via Stripe
• 2. The money is HELD by Stripe (not yet transferred to the artist)
• 3. The artist receives the order notification and prepares the shipment
• 4. The artist ships the artwork and provides the tracking number
• 5. The buyer receives the artwork and confirms receipt
• 6. Stripe automatically transfers 85% of the amount to the artist (15% platform commission)

PROTECTION FOR THE BUYER

If the artwork never arrives, is damaged, or does not match the description, the buyer can open a dispute. The funds remain locked in escrow until the issue is resolved.

The buyer is therefore protected against scams and unscrupulous sellers.

PROTECTION FOR THE ARTIST

Once the buyer confirms receipt and everything is in order, the transfer is automatic and irreversible. The artist cannot be subjected to unfair cancellations after delivery.

The escrow system also avoids long and complex disputes by setting clear rules from the start.

ESCROW RETENTION PERIOD

The funds remain in escrow during the delivery period and until the buyer confirms receipt. Generally, this period is 7 to 14 days maximum depending on the shipping method.

If the buyer does not confirm receipt within 14 days, the system automatically releases the payment to your Stripe account.