Respondent Payments & Project Obligations

This guide clarifies the specific conditions under which you are obligated to pay respondent incentives.

The guiding principle is simple: Incentives are paid only upon full and satisfactory completion of all assigned research tasks. Clear communication in your screener and project introduction is the best way to ensure both you and your participants have the same expectations.

Payment Obligation Scenarios

The following table details whether payment is required in specific situations.

Situation	Required to Pay?	Reason
They don't sign up for the project after being invited?	No	Payment is only required for respondents who complete the project.
They register but never start any tasks?	No	The agreement is for the completion of the entire project.
They only complete some of the tasks?	No	You're only obligated to pay once they've completed all tasks to your stated standards.
They appear to be untruthful?	No	If a respondent provides false or low-quality information, you are not obligated to pay.
Their responses don't meet the quality standards you set out?	No	Payment is not required if submissions do not meet your stated quality and quantity standards.
They complete all tasks to the required standard?	Yes	Once a respondent has fully and satisfactorily completed all assigned tasks, you should process their incentive payment promptly.