A Buyer's Checklist: 10 Things to Verify Before Releasing Escrow Funds

The inspection window is your only protection as a buyer. Once you confirm delivery, the deal is done. Here's the checklist our mediators wish every buyer used before releasing funds.

The 10-point buyer checklist#

• 1. Can you log in with the new credentials? (Not just see a screenshot — actually log in.)
• 2. Have you changed the password, recovery email, and phone number?
• 3. Have you enabled 2FA on your own device and removed the seller's?
• 4. For accounts: check for linked social logins (Facebook, Google, Apple) and disconnect them.
• 5. For domains: confirm WHOIS shows you as registrant and the transfer lock is enabled.
• 6. For software: activate the license on your machine and verify it isn't already in use elsewhere.
• 7. For NFTs: verify the token ID and contract address on a blockchain explorer.
• 8. For gift cards: redeem immediately and confirm the balance.
• 9. Check for hidden fees, subscriptions, or recurring charges tied to the seller's payment method.
• 10. Monitor for 24–72 hours for any login alerts, recovery attempts, or platform notifications.

What to do if something fails#

If any item on this checklist fails, do not confirm delivery. Message the seller in the deal chat and give them a chance to resolve it. If they can't or won't, open a dispute before the inspection window closes. The mediator will evaluate the evidence and decide whether to release, refund, or partial-release the funds.

Escrows Click holds funds in a neutral wallet, verifies delivery, and only releases payment when both parties are satisfied. Start a deal in two minutes at escrows.click.