Understand the Dispute Process: How and When to Raise a Dispute on a Completed Task
The short version
Once a task is marked Completed, you have 7 calendar days to raise a dispute. After that window closes, the task locks permanently and payment is released to the Genie. Act within the window — there are no retroactive disputes.
How the 7-day holding period works
When a task status changes to Completed, a holding period begins immediately. During those 7 days:
- The task remains editable on your end.
- You can change the status from Completed to Dispute if you need revisions or fixes.
- A Task Holding Period card is visible on the right-hand side of the task screen — use it to track how much time you have left.
Once the 7 days pass:
- The task is automatically locked as Completed.
- No further status changes or requirement updates are possible.
- Credits reserved for the task are released to the Genie.
How to raise a dispute
- Open the task from your dashboard before the holding period expires.
- Locate the Status field on the task page.
- Change the status from Completed to Dispute.
- Your Project Coordinator will be notified and will step in to review the situation.
The Coordinator will gather information from both parties, assess the work against the agreed requirements, and determine the appropriate resolution — which may include placing the task on hold and reopening it for revisions.
What happens to your credits during a dispute
Credits reserved for the task are held — not released — for as long as the dispute is active. They are only released to the Genie once the dispute is resolved and the task is closed.
What the Project Coordinator does
Your Project Coordinator is your point of contact throughout a dispute. They:
- Review the submitted work against your original requirements.
- Communicate with both you and the Genie.
- Mediate and recommend a course of action.
- Confirm final closure once the outcome is agreed.
You do not need to chase the Genie directly during a dispute — route everything through the Coordinator.
Key rules to remember
| Situation | What happens |
|---|---|
| Dispute raised within 7 days | Task reviewed; credits held; Coordinator mediates |
| No dispute raised within 7 days | Task auto-locks; credits released to Genie; no further action possible |
| Dispute raised after 7 days | Not possible — task is locked |
Practical tips
- Review deliverables as soon as the task moves to Completed — don't wait until day 6.
- Use GenieChat to communicate issues first. Many concerns can be resolved without a formal dispute.
- If you do need to dispute, be specific: describe what's missing or incorrect and reference the original task requirements.
- Check the Task Holding Period card on the task page to see exactly how many days remain.
