Terms of Service

1. How the Guarantee Works

Settle* acts as your financial partner. We back your lease application so you can rent without a traditional credit score or large upfront (and often illegal) deposits.

Your Responsibility: While we guarantee the rent to your landlord, you (the Tenant) remain responsible for the lease payments. If Settle* covers a payment on your behalf, you are expected to reimburse us. We treat this as an interest-free balance for a grace period, after which we may seek recovery of funds.

2. Payments & Fees

Platform Fee: The 5% fee is charged monthly in addition to your rent. This fee allows us to operate the guarantee program and report your positive payments to credit bureaus.

Pre-Authorized Debit (PAD): By using the service, you authorize Settle* and our payment partners to debit your account for Rent and Fees. We will always attempt to notify you before any unexpected adjustments.

NSF Handling: If a payment bounces, a standard administrative fee ($45) applies. We encourage you to notify us in advance if you expect a shortfall so we can try to help.

3. Lease Relationship

Settle* is not your landlord. Your lease is a contract between you and the property owner. We are the financial bridge that makes that contract possible. We do not manage the property or handle maintenance.

4. Community Standards

Our community relies on trust. As a member, you agree to:

• Provide accurate income and financial information.
• Ensure sufficient funds are available for your scheduled rent date.
• Communicate with us early if you are facing financial hardship.

5. Resolution of Arrears

We understand that financial setbacks happen. If you miss a payment:

• We will attempt to contact you to arrange a repayment plan.
• If the debt remains unresolved without communication, we reserve the right to report the default to credit bureaus or take legal steps to recover funds.
• Repeated non-payment may result in the termination of your guarantee, which could affect your standing with your landlord.

6. Termination

We may suspend access to the platform if you violate these terms or provide fraudulent information. Our goal is to keep you housed, but we must protect the integrity of the community for future newcomers.