1. Purpose of This Policy

This policy governs payments made through Direct Links using the Stripe payment gateway on [Your International Freelancing Marketplace Name] (the “Platform”).

The Direct Links feature allows Buyers to complete payments without creating a Platform account, while Freelancers receive payments through their registered Platform accounts.

By making or receiving a payment via a Direct Link, all parties agree to be bound by this policy.

2. How Direct Links Stripe Payments Work

  • Freelancers generate a secure, Stripe-powered payment link through the Platform
  • Buyers access the link and complete payment without registering on the Platform
  • Payments are processed by Stripe, a third-party payment processor
  • Funds are paid to the Freelancer according to Stripe’s processing timelines
  • The Platform provides the technical interface only

3. Account Requirements

Freelancers

  • Must maintain an active Platform account
  • Must comply with Platform policies and Stripe’s terms
  • Are responsible for receiving and managing funds

Buyers

  • No Platform account is required to make a payment
  • Payment does not create a Buyer account or an ongoing relationship with the Platform

4. Platform Role and Disclaimer

For Direct Links Stripe payments:

  • The Platform is not a party to the transaction
  • The Platform does not hold, control, or escrow funds
  • The Platform does not act as an employer, agent, escrow service, or guarantor
  • Buyer identity is not verified by the Platform
  • All contracts, obligations, and liabilities exist solely between the Buyer and the Freelancer

5. Security and Payment Integrity

  • Stripe processes payments using industry-standard security and encryption
  • Direct Links are generated securely and cannot be modified by Buyers
  • Buyers may not alter, manipulate, bypass, or interfere with the payment process
  • Any attempt to exploit, hack, or misuse the payment system may result in permanent restriction and legal action

6. Refunds and Dispute Resolution

Unless otherwise required by applicable law:

  • The Platform does not issue refunds for Direct Links payments
  • The Platform does not mediate or resolve disputes
  • Chargebacks and disputes are handled directly through Stripe
  • Buyers and Freelancers are solely responsible for resolving disputes between themselves

7. User Responsibilities

Freelancer Responsibilities

Freelancers must:

  • Accurately describe services, pricing, and delivery terms
  • Deliver services as agreed with the Buyer
  • Comply with Stripe’s terms and all applicable laws
  • Handle all taxes, invoicing, and reporting obligations

Buyer Responsibilities

Buyers must:

  • Review all payment details before completing checkout
  • Ensure the payment link is received from a trusted Freelancer
  • Provide accurate and authorized payment information

8. Prohibited Use

Direct Links Stripe payments may not be used for:

  • Illegal drugs, controlled substances, or illegal products
  • Fraud, scams, deception, or misrepresentation
  • Money laundering or prohibited financial activity
  • Services that violate Platform rules or applicable law

Violations may result in account suspension, termination, and reporting to relevant authorities.

9. Fees

  • The Platform may charge service or usage fees to Freelancers
  • Stripe processing fees apply in accordance with Stripe’s terms
  • All applicable fees are disclosed prior to payment link creation
  • All fees are non-refundable

10. International Payments and Compliance

Users acknowledge that:

  • Laws governing online payments vary by jurisdiction
  • Cross-border payments may be restricted in certain countries
  • Compliance with local laws and regulations is the responsibility of the Freelancer
  • The Platform makes no representation that Direct Links payments are lawful in all locations

11. Limitation of Liability

To the maximum extent permitted by law, the Platform shall not be liable for:

  • Payment delays or failures caused by Stripe
  • Chargebacks, disputes, or unauthorized payments
  • Non-delivery, quality, or performance of services
  • Any indirect, incidental, or consequential damages

12. Right to Restrict or Disable

The Platform reserves the right to:

  • Suspend or disable Direct Links payment access
  • Restrict or terminate Freelancer accounts for policy violations
  • Modify or discontinue the Direct Links feature at any time

13. Policy Updates

This policy may be updated periodically. Continued use of Direct Links payments constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.