Written by

Mike Ewers

Soft Escrow & Interview Deposits: How BidFair Builds Trust in Freelance Hiring

If you've ever prepared for a freelance interview only to be ghosted—or worried about getting paid after completing a project—you know how fragile trust can be in remote work. BidFair solves that. Our interview deposits and Soft Escrow system powered by Stripe ensure both parties are committed, protected, and respected throughout the hiring process.

Interview Deposits: A Small Step with a Big Impact

Freelancers often spend time preparing for interviews with no guarantee the client is serious. BidFair fixes this with interview deposits. Before an interview happens, clients place a small deposit—usually 20% of the proposed budget—showing they’re genuinely invested in finding the right talent.

• Clients submit a refundable 20% deposit before scheduling interviews.
• If no hire is made, the deposit is returned under fair terms.
• If a freelancer is hired, the deposit is applied to the project’s total payment.

How Soft Escrow via Stripe Protects Both Sides

Instead of holding funds in a third-party escrow account, BidFair uses Stripe to facilitate what we call "Soft Escrow." Once a project starts, clients fund the job through Stripe, and that amount is securely held. Funds aren’t released until both parties are satisfied—providing freelancers with payment confidence and giving clients full oversight.

• Freelancers: Know that payment is ready and reserved before work begins.
• Clients: Keep control of your funds until you approve completed milestones.
• Both: Have access to BidFair's fair dispute process if anything goes wrong.

Real Scenario: No More Vanishing Clients

Picture this—you’re a copywriter. You land a promising interview and nail it. Then... silence. On BidFair, the client’s deposit is already in the system. If they disappear, they lose that deposit. If they move forward, it contributes to your pay. Either way, your time is valued, and the client’s commitment is real.

Why Clients Appreciate It, Too

This isn’t just about protecting freelancers—clients benefit equally. Interview deposits attract only serious talent, and Soft Escrow through Stripe keeps your money safe until you’re happy with the results. It’s hiring with confidence, not risk.