Question 1

So what actually is Sowo?

Accepted Answer

Sowo helps people book trusted local services, shop from independent providers, plan events and connect with their communities. Booking and shopping are available now, while Sowo Day and Community are being developed. Every provider is reviewed before appearing, and completed paid work, user reviews and repeat visits build each Trust Passport.

Question 2

What is Sowo Community?

Accepted Answer

Sowo Community will help you discover local communities and events, join what matters, RSVP, vote in polls and find the providers who help local life happen. It is in development and will roll out in stages.

Question 3

Is it actually free for me to use?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Browsing, posting a request and messaging providers all cost you nothing. There are no joining or membership fees. You only ever pay for the service you book.

Question 4

What if the provider does not show up, or the job is bad?

Accepted Answer

Stripe processes the payment terms you accept. A deposit is paid to the provider when accepted. The remaining balance is secured before work begins and captured after completion. If something goes wrong, contact us and we will review the booking and payment records.

Question 5

How do I find someone near me?

Accepted Answer

Search by what you need and your area, or browse by category. You can also post a request with your budget and timing, then let available providers come to you.

Question 6

Are the reviews real or made up?

Accepted Answer

They are real. A review can only be left after a completed, paid booking or order on Sowo, so every one you read is from someone who genuinely used that provider. We label every sample.

Question 7

How do I get listed on Sowo?

Accepted Answer

Tap "Become a provider", tell us what you do, and set your services and prices. Our team reviews every profile before it appears. You can also verify your identity to earn the verified seal.

Question 8

What does it cost me to join?

Accepted Answer

It is free to join Sowo. There is no subscription and no Sowo commission. Card processing fees are deducted from payments.

Question 9

How do I get paid?

Accepted Answer

Payouts run through Stripe to your bank. A paid deposit enters your connected Stripe balance when captured. The remaining balance is secured before work begins and captured after completion.

Question 10

When will I get paid?

Accepted Answer

Captured proceeds enter your connected Stripe balance, then Stripe decides when they become available and pays them to your bank on your payout schedule. First payouts and later settlement times depend on Stripe’s account and payment checks; your Earnings screen shows the live balance state.

Question 11

Do I have to verify my identity?

Accepted Answer

No. Identity verification is optional. Completing it earns the verified seal and can help customers feel more confident when choosing you.

Question 12

How will users actually find me?

Accepted Answer

You appear in search and browse for your category and area, you can reply to open requests from users looking for exactly what you do, and a strong profile with reviews, vouches and photos pushes you higher.

Question 13

Can I set my own prices?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You set your own rates and decide what you offer. Users can see your starting prices, or request a quote for bigger jobs.

Question 14

What if a user books and then disappears?

Accepted Answer

Sowo shows the payment state for each booking. Do not begin work until the thread confirms the remaining balance is secured through Stripe.

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