Frequently asked questions
Everything about fees, escrow, refunds, and verification. Still stuck? Send us a note.
What is Blocks Buddies?+
A local marketplace where you post a task — moving help, furniture assembly, junk removal, handyman work, cleaning, or anything else — and verified neighbors and local pros send you offers. You pick the offer you like, pay through the platform, and the money is only released when the job is done.
How much does it cost?+
Posting a job and sending offers are free. We charge a flat $1.00 platform fee on a completed job — not a percentage. Cancelled jobs are refunded in full with no fee.
How does escrow work?+
When you accept an offer, the full amount is charged and held securely by our payments partner, Stripe. The provider can see the job is funded before starting. Funds are released once both sides mark the job complete, or when a dispute is resolved.
When does the provider get paid?+
After both sides confirm the job is complete. The earnings land in the provider's balance, and they can cash out to their linked bank account once the balance meets the minimum. Bank transfer timing depends on Stripe and the bank.
Can I cancel after I've accepted an offer?+
Yes. While the job is still in progress and not marked complete, the needer can use Cancel & refund on the job page. The escrowed amount is returned in full to the original payment method and the provider is notified. Please cancel as early as you can.
What if something goes wrong with the work?+
Use Report an issue on the job page. That pauses any escrow release and opens a dispute. Both sides can add a description and photo evidence, and our team reviews the job history before deciding how the held funds are handled.
How are providers verified?+
Every active provider verifies their email, confirms their government ID through Stripe Identity, and links a payout account. Providers can also upload license and insurance documents; those show as 'on file' until our staff review them and upgrade the badge to verified.
Why can't I share my phone number or email in messages?+
Keeping conversations on the platform is what makes escrow protection, dispute review, and review history possible. Messages containing phone numbers or email addresses — written as digits or in words — are automatically blocked, and repeated attempts are logged.
Can I be both a needer and a provider?+
Yes. One account per person, with one active dashboard at a time. You can switch roles from your account menu; becoming a provider requires completing provider onboarding.
How do I become a provider?+
Sign up, choose the provider path, and complete onboarding: your profile and service categories, government ID verification, and a linked payout account. Once those are done, activate your provider role and start bidding.
Do I need a license or insurance?+
Only where the law requires it for the kind of work you do. If you have them, upload the documents — verified credentials earn badges that noticeably help you win jobs.
How is my payment information stored?+
Card and bank details are handled entirely by Stripe. Blocks Buddies never stores full card or bank numbers — only limited references like the last four digits and account status.
What areas do you serve?+
We're launching in Glendale, CA and the surrounding communities. Providers set their own service radius, so coverage grows as more locals join.
How do I delete my account?+
Email contact@blocksbuddies.com from your account address and we'll take care of it. Any funds currently in escrow are resolved first.