What is Escrow?

Escrow is a secure financial arrangement where a trusted third party holds and regulates payments between two parties. This process enhances security for online transactions, minimizing the risks of fraud and scams when buying or selling goods and services.

Traditionally, escrow services were used in real estate transactions through banks or lawyers. Now, BMO Match Card makes this process accessible to everyone for various transactions, including purchasing vehicles, digital goods, or services online.

For a step-by-step guide on how BMO Match Card protects your payments, visit our detailed Escrow Process Page.

What Are Milestone and Service Transactions?

Milestone transactions—also called service transactions—break a payment into multiple phases. Payments are securely held until each milestone is successfully completed.

For example, if you’re hiring a freelancer for a project, you can set up a milestone payment where:
✅ 50% is released after the draft is completed.
✅ The remaining 50% is released upon final project approval.

How Milestone Payments Work

  • Buyers must fully fund the escrow transaction before work begins or goods are delivered.
  • Sellers receive payments upon successfully meeting each milestone.
  • Both parties agree on payment terms, including who covers the escrow fees (Buyer, Seller, or a 50/50 split).

Benefits of Using Milestone Payments

🔹 Sellers gain confidence as funds are securely held in BMO Match Card‘s escrow system.
🔹 Buyers have assurance that payments are protected until work is completed.
🔹 Supports various goods and services.
🔹 Reduces the risk of fraud.
🔹 Clear inspection terms can be set and agreed upon.
🔹 BMO Match Card is a fully licensed and trusted escrow service.

With an easy-to-use system and robust security measures, BMO Match Card ensures safe and transparent transactions for both Buyers and Sellers. Get started today!