What is a retainer and why?
A retainer is a partial or full upfront payment made by a Family in advance to secure the services of a Helper. It acts as a deposit that demonstrates the family's seriousness about hiring the Helper and reduces the risk of no-shows for both parties. Think of it like a reservation fee: It holds a spot for the family on the helper's schedule and shows the Helper the family is serious about hiring them.
What are the benefits?
Using retainers when hiring a Helper through our app offers several benefits for both Families and Helpers:
- Commitment: The Family shows their commitment to hiring the Helper for the agreed-upon service with a retainer.
- Security for Helpers: The retainer ensures the Helper receives some compensation even if the family cancels last minute. This protects their time and income.
- Reduces Risk of No-Shows: A retainer discourages last-minute cancellations or "ghosting" after initial contact. Knowing a retainer is on the line discourages helpers from accepting a job and then disappearing. If Helper cancels, the retainer goes back to the Family.
How it Works:
- Find Your Helper: Browse profiles, read reviews, and connect with qualified Helpers on our app.
- Schedule an Interview: Once you've found a potential match, schedule a convenient time to chat through our secure chat feature or call them directly.
- Secure Your Booking: To confirm the booking, a retainer (partial or full) is paid through the app. This amount is paid to the Helper once you approve & release it.
- Enjoy Peace of Mind: Both Families and Helpers can relax knowing the appointment is confirmed, and everyone gets what they need.
Important:
By choosing to pay a retainer, the Family acknowledges their certainty in hiring the Helper. As such, retainers are non-refundable under any circumstances.
- If the Helper cancels, the retainer will be held as a credit for the Family to use towards the next Helper.
- If the Family cancels, the retainer will be automatically released to the Helper.
Additional Information:
- Our secure in-app payment system simplifies the retainer process.
- The retainer and fee amount is always transparent and displayed upfront.
- Easily track upcoming appointments, payments, and communication with your Helper directly through the app.