Help Center

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about using TrustAm — as a buyer, a seller, or both.

For Buyers

Finding, booking, and paying for services

What is TrustAm?+
TrustAm is Nigeria's marketplace for verified service providers. Browse 42+ categories — from barbers and makeup artists to plumbers and photographers — read real reviews, compare prices, and book with escrow protection. Explore the marketplace.
Is TrustAm free for buyers?+
Yes, completely free. Creating an account, browsing the marketplace, messaging providers, and booking services costs you nothing. There are no hidden fees for buyers.
How do I find a service provider?+
Open the app or visit trustamai.com. Search for what you need in plain language (e.g. "braider for knotless braids" or "affordable photographer Lagos"). You can also browse by category or filter by city.
How does escrow payment work?+
When you book, your payment is held securely by TrustAm — not sent to the provider directly. The money is only released after you confirm the service was delivered. If there's a problem, you get a full refund. All payments go through Paystack, a CBN-licensed provider. See how it works.
What if the service provider doesn't show up?+
If a provider doesn't deliver the agreed service, open a dispute in the app. TrustAm's team reviews evidence from both sides and makes a decision within 24-48 hours. If resolved in your favour, your money is refunded from escrow.
Can I see real reviews before booking?+
Yes — and that's what makes TrustAm different. Reviews only unlock after a real payment is made. No fake reviews, no bought ratings. Every review on TrustAm is from a verified customer who actually paid for and received the service.
What is Instant Book?+
Instant Book lets you pick a provider's fixed-price service package and pay immediately with escrow. No back-and-forth — ideal for standard services like haircuts, cleaning, or photography.
What is a Custom Quote?+
For projects that need a conversation first. Describe what you need, the provider sends a detailed quote with pricing and timeline, and you pay with escrow when you accept. Perfect for events, custom tailoring, or interior design.
How do I pay?+
TrustAm accepts bank transfers, debit cards, and wallet balance. All payments are processed through Paystack and held in escrow until you confirm delivery. You can also fund your TrustAm wallet for faster checkout.
Can I cancel a booking?+
Yes. If you cancel before the provider starts work, you get a full refund from escrow. If work has started, the refund amount depends on how far along the service is — TrustAm's team mediates fairly.
What categories are available?+
Over 42 categories including: hair braiding, barbers, makeup, nails & spa, photography, videography, DJs, event planning, catering, bakers, tailors, fashion designers, cleaners, plumbers, electricians, mechanics, AC repair, painters, phone repair, graphic designers, web developers, tutors, fitness trainers, dispatch riders, movers, laundry, and many more. Browse all categories.
What cities does TrustAm cover?+
TrustAm currently operates in 13 Nigerian cities: Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, Ibadan, Kano, Enugu, Benin City, Uyo, Owerri, Warri, Onitsha, Aba, and Asaba. We're expanding rapidly. See services by city.
How do I contact a provider before booking?+
Tap on any provider's profile and use the "Message" button to chat directly. You can discuss requirements, ask questions, and negotiate before committing to a booking.
What if I'm not satisfied with the service?+
Leave an honest review — it helps other buyers and holds providers accountable. If the issue is serious (incomplete work, no-show, fraud), open a dispute for a potential escrow refund.
Is my payment information safe?+
Yes. TrustAm never stores your card details. All payments are processed through Paystack (CBN-licensed) with bank-grade encryption. Your data is protected by the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA).

For Service Providers

Listing your services, getting booked, and earning

How do I become a service provider on TrustAm?+
Download the app, create an account, then go to your profile and tap "Start Selling." Fill in your service category, description, portfolio photos, and pricing. Once approved, you'll appear in the marketplace. Learn more about becoming a provider.
Is it free to list my services?+
Yes, listing is free. TrustAm only charges a 5% service fee when you successfully complete a job and receive payment. No monthly fees, no listing fees, no hidden costs.
How do I get paid?+
When a client confirms service delivery, payment is released from escrow to your TrustAm wallet. You can withdraw to any Nigerian bank account — withdrawals typically arrive within minutes. You keep 95% of every payment.
What documents do I need to sign up?+
To start, you just need a phone number. To receive payouts, you'll need to add your bank details. For higher transaction limits, complete KYC verification with your BVN (Tier 2) or NIN + ID (Tier 3).
How do I get more bookings?+
Complete your profile with high-quality photos, detailed service descriptions, and competitive pricing. Respond to messages within 1 hour — fast responders get 5x more bookings. Collect verified reviews by delivering great service.
Can I set my own prices?+
Absolutely. You have full control over your pricing. Create different service packages (basic, standard, premium) with different price points. You can also offer custom quotes for unique projects.
How do verified reviews work for providers?+
Reviews only appear after a customer makes a real payment through TrustAm. This means every review on your profile is genuine — no fake reviews, no competitors leaving bad ratings. Good reviews build your reputation and attract more clients.
What is the Vendor Dashboard?+
Your business command center inside the app. Track your earnings, manage bookings, view customer messages, update your service packages, see your reviews, and monitor your performance — all in one place.
Can I offer services in multiple categories?+
Yes. You can list services across multiple categories. For example, a photographer can also offer videography and drone services under different packages.
What is the provider link-in-bio page?+
Every provider gets a free business page at trustamai.com/@yourname. It shows your services, portfolio, reviews, and a direct booking button. Share it on Instagram, WhatsApp, or business cards — it replaces the need for a website. Create your page.
How does escrow protect me as a provider?+
Escrow protects you too. When a client books, their payment is locked in escrow — confirming they have the funds. You deliver the service knowing the money is there. No more chasing payments or dealing with "I'll pay later."
What if a client disputes my work unfairly?+
TrustAm reviews all disputes fairly. Provide evidence of your work (photos, messages, delivery confirmation) and TrustAm's team will make a decision. Providers with a strong track record are given the benefit of the doubt.
How quickly can I start earning?+
Once your profile is approved (usually within 24 hours), you're live in the marketplace. Most providers get their first booking within the first week if their profile is complete with photos and competitive pricing.
Do I need to be in Lagos?+
No — TrustAm operates in 13 Nigerian cities. You can offer services in any city where you're physically located.
Can I use TrustAm alongside my existing business?+
Yes. Many providers use TrustAm as an additional channel alongside their Instagram, WhatsApp, or walk-in business. There's no exclusivity requirement.

General

Account, payments, and platform questions

How do I download the app?+
TrustAm is available on iOS (App Store) and coming soon to Google Play. You can also use TrustAm on the web at trustamai.com. Download the app.
Do I need an account to browse?+
No — you can browse the marketplace, view provider profiles, and check reviews without an account. You only need to sign up when you want to book a service, message a provider, or leave a review.
What is KYC and why do I need it?+
KYC (Know Your Customer) is identity verification required by Nigerian banking regulations. Tier 1 (phone only) gives you a ₦50,000/day limit. Tier 2 (add BVN) increases to ₦200,000/day. Tier 3 (add NIN + ID) allows up to ₦5,000,000/day.
Is TrustAm regulated?+
TrustAm operates through Paystack, a CBN-licensed Payment Service Provider. We comply with the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA), Anti-Money Laundering regulations, and CBN guidelines. Your money and data are protected.
How do I contact TrustAm support?+
In the app, go to Settings → Help & Support. You can submit a ticket, browse help articles, or reach us via email at [email protected]. We typically respond within a few hours.
Can I use TrustAm to send money?+
Yes! TrustAm also has a wallet with P2P transfers, bill payments, and airtime top-up. Go to the Payments tab to send money to friends, pay bills, or fund your wallet.
What makes TrustAm different from other platforms?+
Three things: (1) Escrow protection on every booking — your money is safe until the job is done. (2) Verified reviews — only real paying customers can leave reviews. (3) 42+ categories in one place — no need for separate apps for different services. See how TrustAm works.
Is there a referral program?+
Yes! Share your referral link from the app and earn rewards when friends sign up and make their first booking. Both you and your friend get rewarded.

Still have questions?

See How TrustAm Works