Types of Engagements on Storetasker

Storetasker supports three primary types of engagements for Experts: Projects, Repeat (Retainers), and Bills. Each has specific use cases, payment flows, and protections.

1. Project

Definition:
A Project is a one-off engagement where the client accepts your quote and pays in full upfront. The payment is held in escrow until the project is completed.

Payment Flow:

1. Client accepts your quote and pays in full.

2. Funds are held in escrow.

3. Once you mark the project complete and the client approves, your portion of the funds is released to your wallet.

Key Points:

• Provides maximum payment security.

• Recommended for most one-off projects.

• Ideal for new clients or larger scope work.

Use Cases:

• Small or medium website updates.

• Single-project design or development tasks.

• Any work where upfront assurance of payment is important.

2. Repeat (Retainer)

Definition:
A Repeat engagement is an ongoing subscription or retainer arrangement. Payments continue until either the client or you cancel the retainer.

Payment Flow:

• Payments are billed weekly or monthly on the agreed schedule.

• Funds are released to your wallet immediately upon receipt, not held in escrow.

Key Points:

• Designed for recurring or ongoing work.

• Provides predictable, ongoing revenue.

• No end date unless canceled by either party.

Use Cases:

• Ongoing website maintenance or SEO support.

• Recurring marketing campaigns or content updates.

• Any service requiring continuous weekly or monthly attention.

3. Bill

Definition:
A Bill is a one-time invoice for work that has already been completed. Bills are not pre-paid and do not offer the same protections as Projects.

Payment Flow:

• Send a Bill after completing the work.

• Client must manually approve and pay the Bill.

• There is no escrow or automated approval.

Key Points:

• Only use for work already completed and delivered.

• Does not provide payment assurance—payment relies entirely on client approval.

• Use cases are limited; Projects or Repeat retainers are generally safer.

Use Cases:

• Small add-on tasks outside of a previously accepted project.

• Paid consultations or short-term services where no upfront quote exists.

• Hourly work that was agreed upon verbally before starting.

Summary:

Pro Tip: Use Projects whenever possible for maximum security. Use Repeat for ongoing work, and only use Bills for post-completion invoicing when Projects or Repeat arrangements are not in place.