Artsy has partnered with Escrow.com to provide a secure option for partners and collectors to transact safely outside of Artsy’s platform. By holding funds until the artwork has been exchanged, Escrow.com shields buyers from the risk of paying for goods not received and protects partners from the risk of charge-backs.
For partners selling through Artsy Conversations, we recommend this method of transacting to help protect you. We recommend this method of transacting to give you security and confidence when purchasing a work directly through a seller you meet on Artsy.
Note: Payment through Escrow.com is completely optional; however, it is highly recommended as a safer way to send and receive payment. Artsy does not take commission or fees from the buyer or seller for Escrow.com payments.
How Escrow.com works
When a partner responds to an inquiry, the collector will be given the option to initiate a purchase by clicking a link through to Escrow.com. This will start the process:
- You and the collector agree on payment via Escrow.com. Once you and the collector agree on the payment method, you must give the collector the email address for your gallery, or the email address you have associated with your existing Escrow.com account.
- You and the collector agree to terms: Either you or the collector may start a transaction. Both parties must create or log in to an Escrow.com account and agree to the terms of the transaction.
- The collector pays Escrow.com. The collector submits payment and Escrow.com verifies it. You will then be notified that the funds have been secured “In Escrow.”
- You ship the artwork to the collector. Once the payment is verified, you’ll be authorized to send the artwork and submit tracking information. Escrow.com will then verify that the collector has received the artwork.
- The collector accepts the artwork. After receiving the artwork, the collector has a set number of days to inspect the artwork and to accept or reject it.
- Escrow.com pays you. Once the artwork is accepted by the collector, Escrow.com will release the funds to your designated bank account or disbursement option.
How Escrow.com protects you in disputes
Escrow.com holds funds and acts in the interest of both parties. Collectors must pay for the work before it is shipped, which protects you. Escrow then holds on to the funds so that collectors can be sure they actually get the work they paid for, which protects them.
In the event of a dispute, parties have 14 days of arbitration, during which Escrow.com holds the funds. If the collector rejects the work and wishes to return it, as is their right during the inspection period, then they are responsible for shipping the work back. They will not be returned their funds (less any fees) until they have done so.