Thumbtack connects customers with local service professionals like landscapers, photographers, DJs, home contractors, and more. But how do payments work on Thumbtack from the professional’s side? This guide covers Thumbtack’s payment process.
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Thumbtack Charges Customers, Not Pros
Importantly, Thumbtack does NOT charge professionals or take any commission from your payments or revenue. Thumbtack’s fee structure is:
- Customers pay Thumbtack for using the platform to submit service requests.
- Professionals pay nothing to sign up for leads or get contacted by customers.
- Thumbtack charges professionals ONLY if they choose to pay for optional premium ad features.
So you keep 100% of what you earn from customers who hire you through Thumbtack.
Pros Get Paid Directly by Customers
After connecting on Thumbtack, payment logistics for the actual services are handled directly between you and the customer. Thumbtack does not process or escrow the payments.
Common payment methods include:
- Cash or check upon job completion
- Invoice with online payment link
- Credit card on file for recurring services
- Deposit upfront, remainder due upon completion
Ensure payment expectations are clear before starting work. Thumbtack provides invoice templates.
Setting Payment Terms
When responding to leads, be sure to outline your standard payment policies and terms, such as:
- Requiring a deposit for large jobs
- Full payment due upon completion
- Handling cancellation and refund policies
- Late fee charges for overdue invoices
- Methods you accept (cash, check, major credit cards, etc)
This avoids payment issues or misunderstandings down the road.
Getting Paid Promptly
To increase chances of prompt payment:
- Be clear about due dates on invoices. Follow up about overdue ones.
- Offer incentives like discounts for prepayment.
- Collect customer credit card details upfront when possible.
- Avoid starting work until initial deposits are made if required.
Providing great service and maintaining open communication also ensures customers happily pay for value received.
Mediating Payment Disputes
If non-payment issues arise:
- First communicate directly with the customer to resolve concerns.
- Thumbtack can also reach out on your behalf if needed.
- Be responsive and flexible to address complaints causing payment delays.
- Withhold releasing final work until overdue payments are received.
Document all agreements thoroughly to support your position if disputes escalate.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I require deposits or prepayments from Thumbtack customers?
For large, complex projects, requiring 10-30% down protects you from nonpayment later. Only take on jobs you can afford to finance yourself otherwise.
How do I get paid for recurring Thumbtack jobs?
Many pros require customers to keep a credit card on file which gets automatically charged each month for repeat services like cleaning or lawn mowing.
What legal options do I have if a customer refuses to pay?
You can file a claim in small claims court or threaten to send unpaid invoices to collections agencies. But try resolving amicably first.
Can Thumbtack help recover unpaid invoices from customers?
Thumbtack can contact delinquent customers to request payment. But you may need to pursue formal legal action as the service provider.
When should I offer discounts or incentives for early payment?
Discounts for prepayment or cash often make sense for more complex projects to improve cash flow and avoid late payments.
Thumbtack itself provides the leads – payment logistics get handled directly between pros and customers hiring them. Maintain clear payment terms for smooth transactions.
