What Happens If I Pay The Sitter In Cash?
Paying a sitter in cash bypasses Mad Paws’ system, meaning you lose the Mad Paws Guarantee, support access, and booking protections — and you may also be in breach of the Terms of Service.
Why Cash Payments Are Not Allowed
Mad Paws keeps all payments on-platform to ensure every booking is trackable, supported, and protected. Cash payments remove those safeguards and create risk in several areas:
1. No Mad Paws Guarantee Protection
If something goes wrong during the booking, off-platform payments are not covered under the Mad Paws Guarantee. Any related costs or issues would be your responsibility.
2. No Booking Support or Backup
If a sitter cancels or doesn’t show up, Mad Paws cannot step in to help replace the booking or provide alternatives.
3. Limited Ability to Resolve Issues
Without an official platform transaction, Customer Support cannot investigate or mediate disputes related to the booking.
4. Breach of Terms of Service
Cash payments outside the platform go against Mad Paws’ Terms of Service and may result in account restrictions or suspension.
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FAQs & Tips
FAQs
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What if my sitter requests cash payment?
Politely decline and explain that Mad Paws requires all payments to go through the platform for security reasons. If the sitter insists, report the issue to Mad Paws Support.
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Do I still get protection if I pay cash? No. The Mad Paws Guarantee only applies to bookings paid through Mad Paws.
Tips
- Plan Ahead. Ensure your payment details are up-to-date to avoid any delays.
- Verify Payment Policies. Familiarise yourself with Mad Paws’ Terms of Service to stay informed.
- Report Concerns. If a sitter requests cash, contact Support immediately for guidance.