Handling Disputes

Sometimes collaborations don't go as planned. Collabkick's dispute resolution process ensures fair outcomes for both brands and creators when issues arise.

When to Open a Dispute

Valid Reasons for Disputes

As a Brand:

• Creator didn't deliver what was agreed
• Content doesn't meet the specified requirements
• Creator missed the deadline significantly
• Content quality is far below professional standards
• Creator posted content but removed it quickly

As a Creator:

• Brand is unresponsive after you've delivered
• Brand rejected work without valid reason
• Brand is asking for significant extra work not in the contract
• Brand hasn't funded despite promising to

When NOT to Open a Dispute

• Minor miscommunications that can be resolved with a message
• Subjective creative differences (unless requirements were clear)
• Wanting to cancel simply because you changed your mind
• Issues that haven't been discussed with the other party first

Always try to resolve issues directly first. Most problems can be solved with clear communication.

Before Opening a Dispute

Step 1: Communicate

Reach out to the other party:

1. Explain the issue clearly
2. Reference specific contract terms
3. Propose a solution
4. Give them reasonable time to respond (24-48 hours)

Step 2: Document Everything

Gather evidence to support your case:

• Screenshots of deliverables
• Screenshots of contract terms
• Message history showing communication attempts
• Any relevant links or files
• Analytics or insights if relevant

Step 3: Consider Alternatives

Before escalating, ask yourself:

• Can this be resolved with a small compromise?
• Is the issue worth the time and stress of a dispute?
• Would a partial refund/payment satisfy both parties?

Opening a Dispute

How to Open

1. Go to the contract page
2. Click Open Dispute (or similar)
3. Select the reason for your dispute
4. Describe the issue in detail
5. Upload supporting evidence
6. Submit the dispute

Writing Your Dispute

Be clear and factual:

✅ Good:

"The contract required 2 Instagram Reels of 60 seconds each. The creator submitted 2 posts that are photos, not videos. I've attached screenshots of the contract requirements and the submitted content."

❌ Bad:

"The creator's work is terrible and I want my money back."

Include:

• What was agreed (reference contract terms)
• What actually happened
• What you've tried to resolve it
• What outcome you're seeking

The Dispute Process

Step 1: Dispute Filed

• Both parties are notified
• Contract is frozen (no payouts)
• 24 hours for the other party to respond

Step 2: Response Period

The other party can:

• Accept your claim: Issue resolved in your favor
• Counter with evidence: Present their side
• Propose a resolution: Suggest a compromise

Step 3: Review (If Needed)

If parties can't agree:

• Collabkick admin reviews the case
• Both sides' evidence is considered
• A fair decision is made

Step 4: Resolution

Admin decides on one of these outcomes:

• Release to Creator: Creator gets the full payment
• Refund to Brand: Brand gets their money back
• Split: Funds divided between both parties

Possible Outcomes

About Deposits

In disputes:

• The party at fault may lose their deposit
• Deposits compensate the other party for wasted time
• Fair disputes typically return both deposits

Tips for a Successful Dispute

For Brands

• ✅ Have clear, documented requirements in the contract
• ✅ Provide specific feedback, not vague complaints
• ✅ Give creators opportunity to fix issues before disputing
• ✅ Keep all communication on the platform

For Creators

• ✅ Deliver exactly what the contract specifies
• ✅ Document your work (screenshots of posts, analytics)
• ✅ Communicate proactively about any issues
• ✅ Ask for clarification if requirements are unclear

For Both

• ✅ Respond to disputes promptly
• ✅ Be professional and factual
• ✅ Focus on facts, not emotions
• ✅ Be open to compromise

Avoiding Disputes

The best dispute is one that never happens. Here's how:

Before Starting

• Clear contracts: Be specific about deliverables
• Realistic timelines: Allow enough time for quality work
• Fair compensation: Pay market rates for quality
• Communication: Discuss expectations upfront

During the Collaboration

• Check in regularly: Don't wait until the deadline
• Flag issues early: Problems are easier to solve early
• Document everything: Keep records of approvals and changes
• Be responsive: Reply to messages promptly

At Delivery

• Review carefully: Don't approve then complain later
• Provide feedback: If revisions are needed, be specific
• Acknowledge good work: Positive communication helps

After a Dispute

Win or Lose

• Learn from it: What could you do differently?
• Move on: Don't let one bad experience discourage you
• Leave honest reviews: Help others make informed decisions

If You Disagree with the Outcome

Dispute decisions are generally final, but if you believe there was an error:

• Contact support with new evidence
• Explain why you think the decision should be reconsidered
• Be respectful and professional

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a dispute take to resolve? Most disputes are resolved within 3-5 business days. Complex cases may take longer.

Can I still communicate with the other party during a dispute? Yes, and you should. Many disputes are resolved through direct communication even after being filed.

What if the other party doesn't respond? After the response period, we'll proceed based on available evidence. Non-response typically doesn't favor the non-responding party.

Can I withdraw my dispute? Yes, you can withdraw a dispute if you reach an agreement with the other party.

Will disputes affect my reputation? We don't publicly display dispute history, but patterns of problematic behavior may affect your account standing.

What if I'm being scammed? Contact support immediately. We have fraud protection measures and can take action on malicious accounts.

Can I dispute after approving work? Generally no: approval is final. This is why you should review carefully before approving.

Getting Help

If you're unsure whether to open a dispute or how to proceed:

1. Review this guide thoroughly
2. Gather your documentation
3. Contact support for guidance

We're here to help ensure fair outcomes for everyone.

Visit our Contact page for support.