# Fees, processing, and payout timelines

This page summarizes the practical expectations for fees, processing states, and payout timing.

## Platform fees

Competitor plans and platform fee levels are documented here:

* [Pricing](/reference-guides/pricing.md)

## Payment processing fees

Payments are processed by Stripe, and processing fees apply according to Stripe terms and payment method.

## Pending vs available balances

After a contribution is received, funds can appear as pending before they become available.

Current payout documentation states:

* Pending funds can remain pending for up to 7 days
* Once available and threshold requirements are met, payouts can be initiated

Reference: [Receiving payouts](/reference-guides/receiving-payouts.md)

## Payout timing expectations

Current guidance indicates:

* Transfer initiation may take up to 7 business days (depending on checks and status)
* Once initiated, bank arrival may take up to 72 hours depending on bank processing

## Why payouts can be delayed

Common causes:

* Incomplete onboarding information
* Additional verification requested by payment provider
* Temporary account restrictions

## Why balance can be negative

Refunds can reduce available balance and may result in a negative balance.

If this happens, review the detailed explanation:

* [Receiving payouts](/reference-guides/receiving-payouts.md)

## Important

This page is a practical summary. The legal and policy source of truth remains:

* [Terms & conditions](/legal/terms-and-conditions.md)
* [Referral Terms](/legal/referral-terms.md)


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