Stripe Connect Terms
Last updated: 2026-03-18
Effective Date: March 1, 2026
Last Updated: March 1, 2026
This addendum to the StaySpark Terms of Service governs your use of payment processing through Stripe Connect on the StaySpark platform.
1. Overview
StaySpark uses Stripe Connect to process guest booking payments. When you enable the booking engine on your StaySpark-generated website, you're using Stripe to accept payments from guests.
2. Stripe Connected Account
To receive guest payments, you must:
- Create or connect a Stripe account through StaySpark's onboarding flow
- Complete Stripe's identity verification and KYC (Know Your Customer) requirements
- Agree to Stripe's Connected Account Agreement and Stripe's Terms of Service
- Provide accurate business and banking information to Stripe
StaySpark facilitates the connection but is not a party to your agreement with Stripe. Your relationship with Stripe is governed by Stripe's own terms.
3. Platform Fee
StaySpark charges a 2.5% platform fee on each guest booking transaction processed through your StaySpark-generated website.
Here's how a booking payment breaks down:
| Component | Example ($1,000 booking) |
|---|---|
| Guest pays | $1,000.00 |
| Stripe processing fee | ~$29.50 (2.9% + $0.30) |
| StaySpark platform fee (2.5%) | $25.00 |
| You receive | ~$945.50 |
Note: Stripe's processing fees are set by Stripe and may vary. The example above uses standard US rates.
- The platform fee is deducted automatically at the time of transaction
- The platform fee applies to the total booking amount charged to the guest
- The platform fee does not apply to your monthly StaySpark subscription — those are separate charges
4. How Payouts Work
- Guest payments flow through Stripe Connect directly to your connected Stripe account
- StaySpark never holds your funds — Stripe handles all money movement
- Payout timing is determined by your Stripe account settings (typically 2 business days for US accounts)
- You can configure your payout schedule in your Stripe dashboard
5. Refunds & Disputes
Guest Refunds
- You set your own cancellation and refund policies for guest bookings
- When you issue a guest refund, the StaySpark platform fee is not refunded (Stripe's processing fee may or may not be refunded per Stripe's policies)
- Full refund of the platform fee may be issued at StaySpark's discretion for exceptional circumstances
Chargebacks & Disputes
- If a guest files a chargeback with their bank, Stripe handles the dispute process
- You are responsible for responding to chargebacks and providing evidence
- Stripe's dispute fees apply per their terms
- StaySpark is not liable for chargebacks or their outcomes
6. Currency
- Guest payments are processed in the currency you configure in your booking settings
- StaySpark's platform fee is calculated on the transaction amount in the original currency
- Currency conversion (if applicable) is handled by Stripe per their rates
7. Tax Obligations
- You are responsible for collecting and remitting all applicable taxes (occupancy tax, sales tax, VAT, etc.) related to your rental business
- StaySpark does not collect or remit taxes on your behalf
- Stripe may issue tax forms (e.g., 1099-K) based on your transaction volume per IRS requirements
- Consult a tax professional for your specific obligations
8. Account Disconnection
If you disconnect your Stripe account or close your StaySpark account:
- Your booking engine will stop accepting new payments
- Pending payouts for completed bookings will still process through Stripe
- Ongoing disputes or chargebacks remain your responsibility
- The StaySpark platform fee for processed transactions is non-refundable
9. Stripe Account Restrictions
If Stripe restricts, suspends, or closes your connected account:
- Your StaySpark booking engine will be unable to process payments
- StaySpark is not responsible for Stripe's account decisions
- You may need to resolve issues directly with Stripe before payments can resume
10. Beta Considerations
During StaySpark's beta period:
- Payment processing features may be updated or modified
- We'll communicate any changes that affect fees or payout processes with advance notice
- The 2.5% platform fee rate is subject to change with 30 days' written notice
11. Contact
Questions about payments or the platform fee?
- StaySpark: support@stayspark.io
- Stripe Support: support.stripe.com
These Stripe Connect Terms were last updated on March 1, 2026.