Moms Effect – Terms of Service (TOS) V1.0
Effective Date:
May 23, 2025
Welcome to Moms Effect! We’re building a trusted community where moms and families find flexible work and reliable help in a secure environment. It takes a village – these Terms of Service (“Terms”) ensure everyone in our village understands the rules. By accessing or using the Moms Effect platform (our website, app, and services, collectively, the “Service”), you agree to these Terms. If you do not agree, please do not use Moms Effect.
Summary (Plain Language): These Terms are a legal agreement between you and Moms Effect. They explain who can use our platform, how our services and payments work (including our “Hearts” virtual currency and escrow via Stripe), community rules, privacy practices, use of AI tools like Ask Mom, and how disputes are handled. We’ve included short summaries (like this one) to help explain key points in simple terms – but the full legal language is what actually governs. Parents of teens: please pay special attention to the minor account rules. We’re here to foster a safe, supportive community, so thank you for reading and following these guidelines.
1. Acceptance of Terms
Summary: By using Moms Effect, you’re entering a binding contract with us and agreeing to everything here. We might update these Terms occasionally, and we’ll let you know when we do. If you keep using Moms Effect after an update, that means you accept the new terms.
1.1. Agreement to Terms. These Terms of Service (together with the Annexes listed below and any policies or guidelines we provide) form a binding legal agreement between you (“User” or “you”) and Moms Effect, Inc. (“Moms Effect,” “Company,” “we,” or “us”). By registering an account or using any aspect of the Service, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms. If you are using the Service on behalf of a company or other entity, you represent that you have authority to bind that entity to these Terms. If you do not agree to these Terms, you must not use or access the Service.
1.2. Changes to Terms. We may revise or update these Terms from time to time. If we make material changes, we will provide notice to you by posting the updated Terms on our site or app and updating the “Effective Date” above, and/or by sending a notification via email or within the Service. Your continued use of the Service after updated Terms become effective constitutes your acceptance of the changes. If you do not agree to any update, you must stop using the Service and (if applicable) cancel your account. We encourage you to review these Terms periodically.
1.3. Incorporated Policies & Annexes. The following annexed documents are an integral part of these Terms and have the same legal effect: Annex 1: Privacy Policy, Annex 2: Payments and Escrow Terms, Annex 3: Community Standards, and Annex 4: AI Tools Disclaimer. By agreeing to the Terms, you also agree to all Annexes. In the event of a conflict between these Terms and an Annex, the Annex will govern for the subject matter it covers. Additional guidelines or rules posted in our app (such as FAQs, safety guidelines, or feature-specific terms) are also incorporated by reference. We strive to align this Agreement with all applicable laws and regulations, so if any part of these Terms is found invalid or unenforceable, the rest remains in effect (see Section 13.3 Severability).
1.4. Mission and Community. Moms Effect is founded on the principle that “trusted help when you need it, work when you want it” leads to better outcomes for families and moms. We aim to maintain a trusted, supportive, safe, and flexible community. By joining, you agree to uphold this spirit and treat other users with respect and honesty. These Terms set the baseline expectations to keep our community thriving.
2. Eligibility and Account Registration
Summary: You must be an adult (18+) to use Moms Effect on your own. Teens 13–17 may participate only with a parent or guardian’s consent and oversight. If you’re under 13, you cannot use Moms Effect. You also need to provide truthful information about yourself and keep your account secure. If you want to offer services (be a helper), you may need to pass a background check and ID verification (we use a company called Checkr for this). Parents of minors on our platform must supervise their teen’s activities. We follow child privacy laws (like COPPA) to protect young users.
2.1. Age Requirements. To register for a Moms Effect account or use the Service, you must meet the following age requirements:
18 years or older: If you are 18 or above (or the age of majority in your jurisdiction), you may use the Service independently, subject to these Terms.
Ages 13–17 (Minors): If you are between 13 and 17 years old, you may use the Service only with the express consent and ongoing supervision of your parent or legal guardian. Your parent or guardian must read and agree to these Terms on your behalf. We may require verifiable parental consent in a form compliant with applicable law (for example, as required by the U.S. Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act, “COPPA”). If you are a parent or guardian permitting a minor 13–17 to use Moms Effect, you agree to these Terms and to be responsible for the minor’s activities on the Service.
Under 13: The Service is not intended for children under 13. We do not knowingly permit users under 13 to create accounts or use Moms Effect. If you are under 13, do not use or access Moms Effect in any manner. If we discover that an under-13 user is present, we will terminate the account and delete any personal data collected, in accordance with COPPA and our Privacy Policy (see Annex 1, Section A10).
2.2. Parental Consent & Responsibilities (For Minor Users). If you are a parent or legal guardian registering or allowing a minor aged 13–17 to use the Service:
You represent and warrant that you are the legal parent or guardian of that minor and that you have the legal authority to consent to the minor’s use of the Service.
You must supervise the minor’s use of the Service at all times. This includes monitoring who they interact with, the content they access, and any transactions they engage in.
You are fully responsible for the minor’s account, including all actions taken and any payments made or received. Any breach of these Terms by the minor will be deemed a breach by you.
You agree that we may contact you to verify consent or discuss the minor’s account as needed for safety or compliance. You further acknowledge that certain features may be restricted for minors for safety/legal reasons (for example, minors may not be able to provide certain types of services or may have limited visibility in the platform).
2.3. Compliance with Local Age Laws. We strive to comply with global age restrictions and parental consent requirements. If the law in your jurisdiction sets a higher minimum age for use of online services or requires parental consent for users under a certain age (for example, under 16 years old in some countries in the European Economic Area or United Kingdom), then we require you to meet those age requirements. Specifically, if you are in the EEA, UK, or a similar jurisdiction with a “digital age of consent” above 13, you must be old enough or have parental consent as required by your local law. We reserve the right to ask for proof of age or parental consent at any time to verify compliance.
2.4. Account Registration and Accurate Information. When creating a Moms Effect account, you agree to:
Provide truthful, current, and complete information about yourself (or your family, if applicable) as prompted by our registration forms. This includes your legal name, current address, valid email, mobile phone number, and any other information we request.
Keep your information up-to-date. If any of your registration or profile details change (e.g., you get a new phone number or move to a new address), you must promptly update that information in your account settings.
Maintain only one account per individual (unless explicitly permitted by us in writing). You may not create multiple accounts for the same person or create an account for someone else without authorization. You may not transfer your account to another person or allow someone else to use your account (except a parent monitoring a minor child’s account, as permitted above).
Choose an appropriate username/profile. If we allow custom usernames or profile names, you must not choose a name that is offensive, infringes someone’s rights, or misleads others. We may require you to change a username that violates this or we may reclaim it.
If you provide any information that is untrue, inaccurate, not current, or incomplete, or we have reasonable grounds to suspect so, we have the right to suspend or terminate your account and refuse any and all current or future use of the Service (see Section 13.1 on Termination).
2.5. Account Security. You are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality and security of your account credentials. Choose a strong, unique password and keep it secret. Do not share your password or allow others to access your account (aside from a parent overseeing a minor’s account, as described). You agree to:
Keep your login credentials secure. Use reasonable measures to protect your account, such as not reusing passwords from other services and enabling two-factor authentication if available.
Notify us immediately at support@momseffect.com if you suspect or become aware of any unauthorized access to or use of your account or password, or any other breach of security.
Be responsible for all activities that occur under your account. We are not liable for any loss or damage arising from unauthorized use of your credentials (but you may be liable to us or others if such use results from your failure to safeguard your account).
Not impersonate others or misrepresent your identity on your account. You cannot share your account with anyone (each user must have their own account). If you are logging in on a shared device, make sure to log out after each session to protect your account.
Moms Effect will never ask you to disclose your password via phone or email. Any attempt by others to obtain your password or personal information (phishing) should be reported to us.
2.6. User Verification and Background Checks. To foster a trusted community, we may offer or require identity verification and background screening for certain users or jobs:
Identity Verification: You authorize Moms Effect to verify your identity through various means, which may include requiring you to provide a government-issued ID, social security number or taxpayer ID (for payment/tax purposes), a photo or selfie for face-matching, and/or verification via third-party services. We may display a “Verified” badge or similar on profiles of users who have completed ID verification. You agree not to misrepresent your identity or provide any false documentation.
Background Checks (Checkr): If you sign up to offer services (be a “Helper” or provider on the platform), especially services involving vulnerable populations like childcare or eldercare. We or users might ask you to undergo a background check for the safety of the community. Background checks in the U.S. are performed by a third-party consumer reporting agency (for example, Checkr, Inc.). This may include a review of your criminal history, driving record, or other public records, as permitted by law. If you elect to undergo a background check, you will be asked to review and consent to a separate disclosure and authorization, as required by the U.S. Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and similar state laws. You also consent to us sharing necessary personal information with the background check provider (such as your full name, date of birth, social security number, and driving license information) and to our receipt of the background report.
Use of Results: We may use identity and background check results to determine eligibility for certain features (for example, only users who pass a background check may be allowed to offer babysitting services, or may receive a special badge). These results may also be used to disqualify or remove users from the platform. For example, if a background check reveals concerning history (such as certain criminal convictions), we may suspend, deny, or terminate your account in our discretion, consistent with applicable law. We may also periodically re-check or require updates to your background screening to maintain a verified status.
Limitations: Background checks are limited to information provided by the screening agency. Moms Effect does not guarantee the completeness or accuracy of such reports, nor assume any liability for the content of the reports. A verification or “background passed” status is not an endorsement of a user’s character, morality, or suitability, it only indicates that the user met our criteria at the time of screening. Users should still exercise personal judgment and caution in interactions (see Section 8.4).
Privacy and Retention: Information obtained from identity verification and background checks will be collected, stored, and handled in accordance with our Privacy Policy (Annex 1). Sensitive data (like social security numbers) are handled with care and only shared with those who need to know for the verification process (e.g., our third-party processor). We comply with applicable laws regarding the handling of background reports. If you have questions about a decision based on a background check, you may contact us for information on any adverse action process available to you (for example, under FCRA, you have rights to receive a copy of your report and dispute inaccurate information).
2.7. Additional Eligibility Criteria. You represent that you (and any minor child you register, if applicable):
Have not been previously removed or banned from Moms Effect or any similar platform for violating any agreement or policy.
Are not a person barred from using the Service under the laws of the United States or your country of residence. For example, you are not on any government list of prohibited or restricted parties.
Will use the Service in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations (for instance, you are not prohibited by any court order from engaging in the activities you intend to do on Moms Effect).
Are physically and mentally capable of performing the activities you sign up for on the platform. (For example, if you register to provide childcare, you assert that you are fit to do so and meet any legal requirements for such care in your area.)
We reserve the right to refuse registration, cancel accounts, or limit access to the Service to any person in our sole discretion, to the extent permitted by law, especially if safety or legal compliance is a concern.
3. Nature of the Service and User Roles
Summary: Moms Effect is a platform that connects people, it’s a “marketplace.” We connect those needing help (like parents or families) with those offering services (often fellow moms with skills and time). We do not directly employ the helpers and we are not responsible for the actual services they provide. Our job is facilitating the connection, providing the app, and handling payments and safety features. That means when you agree on a task or job with someone, any contract formed is between you and that user, not with Moms Effect. We are not an employer, agent (except for limited payment purposes), or insurer of users. We disclaim liability for what happens between users outside of what we expressly provide in these Terms. Both those who hire help and those who provide help must follow all laws (for example, pay any required taxes, have any required licenses, and not do anything illegal through the platform).
3.1. Marketplace Platform; No Professional Advice. Moms Effect operates an online marketplace and community platform that enables users to post requests for assistance or jobs (“Client” or “Requestor” users) and to find and contract with individuals who offer services or help (“Helper” or “Provider” users). These services might include childcare, tutoring, household help, professional consulting, or other offerings permitted on our platform. The actual agreements for services are made directly between Users. Moms Effect is not in the business of providing those services ourselves, and nothing in this Agreement will be construed as making us a party to any service contract between users.
You acknowledge that any advice, information, or content you obtain through the Service (including from the Ask Mom AI tool or from other users via chat or forum) is for general support and informational purposes only, not professional advice. For example, if you receive parenting tips or health suggestions via the platform, you should use your own judgment and/or seek advice from qualified professionals. Moms Effect does not guarantee the accuracy or applicability of any information exchanged on the platform.
3.2. User Roles and Contracting. When Users arrange for services through Moms Effect:
Client/Requestor: A user seeking assistance will post a description of the task or service needed (e.g., babysitting for an evening, help with accounting, carpool assistance, etc.) or directly search the directory of available Helpers. The Client is responsible for providing accurate details about the task (date, time, location, scope, requirements) and for compensating the Helper as agreed (through the platform’s payment system).
Helper/Provider: A user offering services can create a profile listing their skills, experience, availability, and rate (possibly denominated in our platform’s virtual currency, “Hearts,” as described in Section 4 and Annex 2). When a Helper accepts a Client’s request or a Client selects a Helper for a job, that Helper is responsible for delivering the service in a timely and professional manner, consistent with any description or qualifications they provided. Helpers act as independent contractors (not employees of Moms Effect or of the Client, see Section 3.4) and are solely responsible for how they perform the services.
Formation of Agreement: Any agreement for services (a “Service Agreement”) is solely between the Client and the Helper. Moms Effect is not a party to that contract. We simply provide tools to facilitate the making of such agreements (like the request-posting system, chat for communication, and escrow payment feature). The terms of any Service Agreement may include details like the work to be done, timing, payment amount, cancellation policy, etc. We may provide templates or suggested terms for such agreements (for instance, a checklist for babysitting jobs), but we do not guarantee any contract terms or enforceability between users. Users are free to agree to additional terms between themselves through the platform’s communication tools, but must not agree to anything that conflicts with these TOS or with our Community Standards.
No Agency: Except for the limited role described in Section 4.4 (Payments – where we act as a payment collection agent for the Helper solely to collect funds from the Client), Moms Effect is not an agent or representative of either party in the pairing. We do not negotiate or conclude contracts on behalf of users. Users are individually responsible for fulfilling their promises to each other.
3.3. Independent Contractor Relationship (No Employment). All Helpers providing services through Moms Effect do so as independent contractors or self-employed individuals of the Clients who engage them. Users agree to notify us of any reclassification risk in their area. No employment, joint venture, partnership, or franchise relationship is created between or among Moms Effect and any User by these Terms or by your use of the Service. Specifically:
No Employee Status: Helpers are not employees of Moms Effect, and Moms Effect does not, and shall not be deemed to, direct or control how Helpers perform their services or carry out their tasks. We do not supervise the work on-site, do not provide tools or equipment (beyond the platform itself), and do not dictate work hours or methods. Any sample guidelines or training resources we may provide are optional and for general informational help only, not mandates.
No Employment of Helpers by Clients (Advice): We do not dictate the legal relationship between Clients and Helpers. However, typically under these Terms, the intention is that Helpers act as independent contractors to the Clients as well, rather than household employees. Clients and Helpers are responsible for determining whether their relationship is that of an independent contractor arrangement or an employment relationship under applicable law (which could depend on factors like frequency of work, control, etc.). If it were determined to be an employment relationship by law, the parties (not Moms Effect) are responsible for complying with any employer obligations (such as payroll taxes, minimum wage, overtime, workers’ compensation, etc.). By default, our platform facilitates peer-to-peer independent arrangements, not employment. Append: This independent-contractor principle also applies to moms’bassadors and Organizations (see §§ 3.8 and 3.9).
No Benefits or Withholding: Moms Effect does not provide workers’ compensation, accident insurance, health insurance, or any employment benefit to Helpers unles expressly stated. We do not withhold income tax or Social Security tax for Helpers. Helpers are responsible for their own taxes and insurance (see Section B8 in Annex 2).
No Agency: You do not have authority to bind Moms Effect to any agreements, and you agree not to represent otherwise. Similarly, Moms Effect does not act as an agent for any User to legally bind them – except in the limited capacity of collecting payments as described in Section 4.4 (which is solely to facilitate payment to Helpers).
3.4. User Obligations and Compliance with Laws. All Users agree to abide by applicable laws and regulations when using Moms Effect and when engaging in any service arrangement through the platform. This includes:
General Laws: Obeying all applicable local, state/provincial, national, and international laws. Such as labor and employment laws, tax laws, privacy and data protection regulations, anti-discrimination laws, health and safety regulations, and any permit or license requirements relevant to the services you offer or engage. For example, if you are providing childcare in the U.S., you must comply with any state laws regarding childcare providers; if you are driving, you must have a valid driver’s license and obey traffic laws; if you are offering any professional service (e.g., accounting, medical advice), you must hold any required certification or license and comply with professional regulations (and note that offering certain regulated services may be prohibited on the platform without proof of credentials).
Tax Compliance: Users are responsible for satisfying any of their own tax obligations arising from their use of the Service. Helpers must report and pay income taxes on earnings, as required by law (see Annex 2 for details on our reporting of payments). Clients may have tax obligations too (e.g., hiring a household worker may require issuing tax forms or compliance with “nanny tax” laws if certain conditions are met). Moms Effect is not responsible for advising Users on tax matters, but we may provide general information or reminders. Ultimately, each User should consult a tax advisor if unsure of their responsibilities.
Business Compliance: If you are using Moms Effect for a nonprofit, business or commercial purpose (for instance, a small business hiring freelance help, or a mom offering professional consulting services via the platform), you are responsible for any business registrations, insurance, or compliance obligations you have. Moms Effect does not provide insurance for any loss or damage arising from work performed via the platform (unless explicitly stated; see Section 8.4 on Safety and No Warranty of Service). Helpers should consider obtaining their own liability insurance if their field of work warrants it.
No Illegal Activity or Requests: Users must not use the Service to solicit, offer, or engage in any illegal activity or transaction. Any request for or offer of services that would violate applicable law or regulations is strictly prohibited. This includes, for example, requests involving illegal substances, activities without required permits or licenses, or anything that would result in unlawful employment (e.g., paying below minimum wage for a covered employment scenario, asking a minor to do something prohibited, etc.). If we become aware of unlawful conduct or proposals, we may report it to law enforcement and take action against the accounts involved.
3.5. Service Availability and Interactions. Moms Effect strives to maintain a safe and functioning marketplace, but:
We Do Not Guarantee Jobs or Helpers: We do not guarantee that Clients will find suitable Helpers, or that Helpers will find work through the platform. We also cannot promise any specific number or quality of opportunities, as this depends on user demand and other factors outside our control.
User Vetting: While we may implement certain user vetting mechanisms (like identity checks, background checks, compliance with financial institutions, user reviews and ratings, etc.), we do not endorse or guarantee any user’s character, reputation, skills, or conduct. Use your discretion and follow safety guidelines when interacting with others (see Community Standards in Annex 3). If you feel uncomfortable or unsafe with an arrangement, you have the right to cancel or refuse (though you may not abuse cancellations – see Payment Terms for possible penalties or refund rules).
Meetings and Interactions: Any in-person meetings or transfer of children for childcare, etc., are solely arranged between Users. Moms Effect does not supervise or participate in these. We strongly encourage users to exercise common-sense safety measures: meet in public first when possible, tell a friend or family member about your plans, check references or reviews on profiles, and trust your instincts. Any emergency situations should be addressed immediately by contacting local authorities (e.g., call 911) – Moms Effect is not an emergency service.
3.6. Non-Circumvention. Our community thrives when users transact through Moms Effect, which allows us to provide safety features, secure payments, and support. You agree not to circumvent the platform in any manner. This means:
If you are a Client who discovered or first contacted a Helper through Moms Effect, you will not solicit that Helper to provide services outside of Moms Effect (and vice versa for Helpers) for at least 12 months from the time of introduction, unless you have obtained written permission from Moms Effect or have paid any applicable opt-out fees we may establish.
Communications and payments should always go through the platform. Do not share personal contact information (like phone number, email) in early communications with another user until it’s necessary (our platform may facilitate contact once a booking is confirmed). We may mask or monitor initial messages to enforce this policy (see Section 5.4 on Communications Monitoring).
The purpose of this non-circumvention rule is to protect all parties: payments off-platform for a relationship started on the platform violate these Terms and deprive us of our fees (which sustain the service) and also mean you lose the benefits of our secure payment escrow and dispute resolution. If we find that you have circumvented or attempted to circumvent our platform for transactions, we reserve the right to charge you fees equivalent to what we would have earned (to the extent permitted by law), suspend or terminate your account, and pursue other remedies.
We understand that sometimes users may independently know each other outside the platform or have prior relationships. In those cases, the above rule may not apply, but we may ask for verification of the prior relationship if it comes to our attention. When in doubt, use our platform to communicate and transact.
3.7. Feedback and Ratings. After a service is completed, Clients and Helpers may have the opportunity to leave reviews, ratings, or feedback about each other. Any such user feedback must be truthful and fair. Our Community Standards (Annex 3) prohibit defamatory or abusive reviews. We do not generally modify or censor reviews unless they violate our policies, but we reserve the right to remove content that is proven to be false or abusive. User ratings and reviews are opinions of others and not the opinion of Moms Effect. We do not guarantee accuracy of any feedback. However, we may use feedback in our system and user vetting processes.
3.8 Moms’bassador (“Moms’bassador”) Program
3.8.1 Overview & Purpose. The Momsbassador Program (“Program”) empowers community members (“Moms’bassador”) to champion Moms Effect within their local networks, organize events, and share referral links, while earning Heart-based rewards tied to successful user sign-ups.
3.8.2 Enrollment & Eligibility. Enrollment is voluntary, by application or invitation only, and contingent on (a) maintaining a good-standing User account, and (b) agreeing to Annex 5 (Rewards & Revenue-Sharing Agreement). Moms Effect may accept, decline, or revoke Program status at its sole discretion.
3.8.3 Independent-Contractor Status. Participation does not create an employment, franchise, joint-venture, agency, or partnership relationship with Moms Effect. moms’bassador act as independent contractors / brand advocates. They (i) choose their own outreach methods and schedules, (ii) bear their own expenses, and (iii) are not entitled to wages, benefits, or reimbursement unless expressly stated in Annex 5.
3.8.4 Brand Guidelines; No Authority to Bind. Program members may use Moms Effect trademarks solely as provided in our brand-asset kit, may not alter marks, and may not represent themselves as employees, representatives, or spokespeople. No Moms’bassadors may (a) sign contracts, (b) collect payments, or (c) make public statements on behalf of Moms Effect without prior written consent.
3.8.5 Rewards & Taxes. Rewards are credited in Hearts pursuant to Annex 5. Hearts earned may be taxable income where applicable; each moms’bassador is responsible for reporting and paying taxes and will receive IRS Form 1099-NEC or 1099-K if thresholds are met.
3.8.6 Content & Event Conduct. All Program activity (online content, offline events) must comply with Community Standards. Hate speech, harassment, deceptive claims, or unapproved promotions may result in immediate termination and forfeiture of unpaid rewards.
3.8.7 Indemnity. Moms’bassadors agree to indemnify and hold Moms Effect harmless from any claim, demand, or liability arising out of (a) Program-related conduct, (b) third-party disputes over events they host, or (c) misrepresentations they make.
3.8.8 Termination. Either party may end participation at any time. Upon termination, (i) outstanding, properly-earned Hearts will be paid out subject to Annex 5; (ii) the Moms-Basseter must cease use of Moms Effect brand assets; and (iii) sections on intellectual property, confidentiality, and indemnification survive.
3.9 Business & Organization Accounts (Work • Hire • Volunteer)
3.9.1 Scope. Entities such as companies, non-profits, schools, faith-based groups, and community organizations (collectively “Organizations”) may register accounts to (a) post paid work, (b) hire Helpers, or (c) list volunteer opportunities.
3.9.2 Independent Capacity. Organizations operate in an independent and self-directed capacity. Moms Effect does not supervise, direct, or control Organizational activities, nor employ volunteer or paid workers secured through the Service.
3.9.3 Compliance & Insurance. Each Organization is solely responsible for (i) complying with all labor, tax, child-safety, and volunteer-screening laws, (ii) securing any mandatory insurance, and (iii) verifying qualifications of Helpers or volunteers it engages.
3.9.4 Disputes & Liability. Any dispute, injury, or loss arising between an Organization and a User must be resolved by those parties. Moms Effect is not a party to such disputes and disclaims all liability for (a) misconduct by Organizational staff or administrators, (b) misclassification of workers, or (c) unfulfilled obligations by either side. Organizations agree to defend and indemnify Moms Effect from third-party claims stemming from their postings or conduct.
3.9.5 Account Control & Admins. An Organization must designate one or more account administrators who have authority to act on its behalf and to bind the Organization to these Terms. The Organization is responsible for all activity conducted through its admin or sub-accounts.
3.9.6 Fees & Payments. Organizations are subject to the same Hearts purchase, escrow, and payout rules as other Clients, plus any Enterprise or Premium fee schedule we may publish.
3.9.7 Marketing & Case Studies. With prior written consent, Moms Effect may reference Organizations as customers or partners and may display their name and logo in marketing materials.
4. Payments, Virtual Currency, and Escrow
Summary: Payments on Moms Effect are handled via Stripe for security. We use a virtual credit system called “Hearts”. You buy Hearts with real money, then use them to pay Helpers (kind of like tokens). When a Client pays in Hearts, those funds are held in escrow by our platform until the job is done. Then the Hearts (money) are released to the Helper at confirmation of completion. We charge fees (we’ll tell you the fees up front in the app). Stripe processes credit cards and bank transfers, so you must follow Stripe’s rules as well. Helpers and hirers will need to connect a Stripe account to get paid, and are responsible for their own taxes on earnings. No cash or off-platform payments, please! We want everything trusted and secure. Hearts are not real money outside Moms Effect; they don’t expire, but they’re generally non-refundable except under specific circumstances like cancellations or required by law. Also, if you earn above certain amounts, we might require tax info and issue IRS forms.
4.0.1 Dollar-to-Hearts Mechanics (Clarification)
(a) Pricing Currency. All prices published on the Service and all Client charges at checkout are denominated in U.S. dollars (USD).
(b) Credit Currency. Upon payment approval, the corresponding value is immediately converted 1 : 1 into “Hearts,” the Service’s internal virtual credit. Users receive, hold, and spend Hearts throughout the Moms Effect ecosystem exactly dollar-for-dollar. Example, a USD 25.00 charge + payment processing fee yields 25 Hearts.
(c) Redeeming Hearts. Hearts may be (i) tendered for any good or service offered on the Service or affiliated apps, or (ii) withdrawn as cash (USD) through the normal payout flow. No other redemption method is permitted.
(d) No Dual-Currency Risk. Because the exchange rate is fixed at 1 Heart = 1 USD and Moms Effect backs Hearts with an equivalent dollar balance held via Stripe.
4.1. Virtual Currency (“Hearts”). Moms Effect uses an internal virtual currency called “Hearts” to facilitate transactions on the platform. Hearts are a digital token or credit that represents a fixed value (for example, 1 Heart is equivalent to US $1.00 the exact conversion rate will be disclosed on purchase “for international users” and may be subject to change, but initially we peg Hearts to the U.S. dollar at a 1:1 ratio). By using the Service, you acknowledge that Hearts are not real currency, but a limited, non-transferable, revocable license granted to you by Moms Effect to use for designated purposes on the platform.
Purchasing Hearts: Clients can purchase Hearts using real currency (e.g., via credit/debit card or other payment methods we accept). Purchase options (bundles of Hearts), pricing, and any applicable transaction fees or taxes will be clearly shown at the point of purchase. When you buy Hearts, the corresponding amount of money is charged via our payment processor (Stripe) and then held by us (or Stripe on our behalf) to back the value of those Hearts. The Hearts will then be credited to your in-app balance.
Using Hearts: Hearts can be used only within Moms Effect to pay for services, tip helpers, or otherwise as allowed by the Service. When a Client agrees to hire a Helper for a certain price (say 100 Hearts for a task), those Hearts will typically be deducted from the Client’s balance and placed into a pending or escrow state until the service is completed (see Section 4.4). After completion, the Hearts (minus any fees) will be transferred to the Helper’s account balance, which the Helper can then withdraw as real money. Helpers may also use earned Hearts within the platform (for example, a Helper could use earned Hearts to hire other Helpers, if desired).
No Partial Use Outside Platform: Hearts have no cash value outside the platform and cannot be exchanged for cash except through the authorized withdrawal process by users, or as otherwise expressly provided in these Terms. Clients generally cannot “cash out” Hearts back into real money once purchased (subject to any refund policies below). Hearts are not transferable between users except as payments for services or gifts facilitated by the platform’s features. Attempting to trade, sell, or transfer Hearts outside the Service is a violation of these Terms.
Non-Expiration: Hearts do not expire as long as you maintain an active account. However, if an account remains dormant for an extended period (typically, if you have a balance and haven’t logged in or used the Service for over 1 year), we reserve the right to charge a small inactivity fee or, as required by law, to remit the remaining balance to the appropriate state authority under unclaimed property laws. We will provide notice to your registered email before deeming your Hearts abandoned or taking such actions.
No Interest: Any funds underlying your Hearts balance are not segregated into an individual account for you and will not earn interest. You agree that your purchase of Hearts represents pre-payment for services to be obtained via the platform and not a deposit or savings account. Moms Effect is not a bank or financial institution; we simply maintain a ledger of the virtual currency.
4.2. Payment Processing with Stripe. All monetary transactions (purchases of Hearts, payouts to Helpers, fees, etc.) are facilitated by Stripe, Inc. (and its affiliates) as our third-party payment processor. By using the payment features of our Service, you agree to comply with Stripe’s terms and conditions, including the Stripe Services Agreement and the Stripe Connected Account Agreement (if you are sending or receiving funds). These Stripe terms are an agreement between you and Stripe (not Moms Effect), and they govern the use of Stripe’s payment services. Some key points:
Credit/Debit Card Info: When you enter your payment information (e.g., credit card number) to buy Hearts or pay for a service, that information is sent directly to Stripe. Moms Effect does not store your full card details on our servers. Stripe’s systems handle the secure processing of your payment. We may store a token or reference so that you can make repeat purchases without re-entering details, but we don’t have the raw card data.
Charges and Authorization: You authorize Moms Effect and Stripe to charge your chosen payment method for the purchase of Hearts or any other charges you incur (like fees or refunds) in connection with your use of the Service. If your provided payment method fails or is declined, we may attempt to charge any other payment method you have on file. If payment remains unsuccessful, we may suspend or cancel the related transactions or your access to paid features.
Stripe Connect: Users who receive payouts will be required to create or connect a Stripe Connect account as a “Connected Account” under our Stripe platform. This will involve providing information such as your name, bank account details, SSN, tax ID, etc., to Stripe for identity verification and compliance (Stripe is required by financial regulations to collect “Know Your Customer” info from recipients of funds). You must provide accurate and complete information to Stripe and keep it updated. If Stripe or Moms Effect cannot verify your identity or bank info, payouts may be delayed or withheld.
Stripe Fees: Stripe may charge fees for processing transactions. We will disclose any additional processing or service fees to you in advance. You agree that Moms Effect is not liable for Stripe’s actions, omissions, or any errors in payment processing, provided we have taken reasonable care in selecting them and integrating their services.
No Use of Unauthorized Payment Methods: You agree not to attempt to use any payment method that you are not authorized to use or that is fraudulent or stolen. We reserve the right to cancel any transaction we suspect may be unauthorized or fraudulent. Additionally, if we are notified by Stripe that a payment is suspected to be fraudulent (for example, due to a chargeback claiming the card was stolen), we may freeze all Hearts or funds until the issue is resolved and cooperate with law enforcement as needed.
4.3. Pricing, Platform Fees and Taxes. Using Moms Effect may involve fees for Clients and/or Helpers:
Service Fees: Moms Effect may charge a platform service fee to Users for facilitating transactions. This fee may be a percentage of the transaction amount, a flat fee per booking, or a combination, and it might differ for Clients and Helpers. (For instance, we might charge Clients a small booking fee on top of the payment, and/or deduct a percentage from Helper payouts.) All fees will be disclosed to you clearly before you confirm a transaction. We will also outline our current fee structure on our website or app (for example, in an FAQ or fees page). By accepting a booking or payment, you agree to the fee displayed.
Hearts Purchase Fees: When buying Hearts, you pay the face value (e.g., $10 for 10 Hearts) and possibly applicable sales tax or VAT on that purchase (depending on your location). We may also charge an app store processing fee if you purchase through a mobile app (to cover commissions by Apple/Google). If any such additional charges apply, they will be shown at checkout.
Withdrawal Fees: Payouts to users bank accounts via Stripe are nominal and variable or when a user requests an instant payout or alternative payout method (e.g., instant transfer to a debit card, cross border payments, which Stripe or other processors might charge a small fee for), that fee may be passed on to the user. The user will see any such fee before confirming the payout.
Currency: All transactions on Moms Effect are conducted in the platform’s base currency, which is U.S. Dollars (USD) (reflected through Hearts). If you are in another country, you can still use the Service, but note that currency conversion may apply when charging your card or receiving a payout, depending on your bank. Stripe will handle currency conversion at Stripe’s exchange rates and may charge a conversion fee. We are not responsible for exchange rate differences or fees charged by your own bank or card issuer.
Taxes on Services: The fees we charge do not include any taxes that may apply to the services provided by Helpers or to the transactions. We do not collect taxes on the underlying services between users, except where required by law. In some jurisdictions, online marketplaces are required to collect and remit certain taxes (e.g., sales tax, VAT, GST) on the service provided by a user through the platform. If applicable, we reserve the right to add such tax amounts to charges paid by Clients or deduct from payouts to users and remit them to the appropriate tax authority. We will notify you if such taxes are being collected or withheld. Otherwise, users are responsible for any income or business taxes on their earnings, and Clients are responsible for any taxes (such as use tax or VAT) on the services they purchase, to the extent required by local law. We advise you to consult a tax advisor if needed.
No Sales of Hearts or Services Off-Platform: Apart from legitimate transactions through our Service, you agree not to sell, trade, or barter Hearts or services for money outside of the platform. All such exchanges must occur within Moms Effect with proper accounting.
4.4. Escrow and Payment to users; Appointment of Moms Effect as Agent. In order to protect both Clients and Helpers, Moms Effect uses an escrow-model payment system:
Payment Holding: When a Client agrees to pay a Helper (either by purchasing Hearts to allocate to a task or by allocating existing Hearts to a task), those Hearts (and the underlying funds) are held by Moms Effect (via Stripe or other FDIC institution) until the service is confirmed as completed. We act as a limited payment collection agent for users to receive the funds on the users behalf. This means that payment by the Client to Moms Effect (via the app) is considered the same as a payment made directly to the user, and the user is obligated to perform the services once such payment is made. Users agree that they will not circumvent this agent arrangement or seek payment outside the platform for that transaction.
Completion and Release: Once the service is completed, the parties should confirm completion through the app (for example, the Client might mark the task as done, or the system marks it completed after the scheduled time unless a dispute is reported. We will specify the mechanics in the app interface). After completion confirmation, the escrowed Hearts are released: the appropriate number of Hearts are transferred to the users available balance, and the transaction is considered closed. At that point, the user can withdraw the funds (Hearts redemption) to their bank account. We aim to make funds available for withdrawal promptly; typically, this occurs immediately or within 24-48 hours, though bank processing times can vary (usually 2-7 business days to reflect in your account).
Disputes or Uncompleted Work: If a Client indicates that the service was not completed satisfactorily or at all, or files a dispute through the platform within a specified window (for example, within 7 days of the scheduled completion), the release of funds may be placed on hold. We will follow the Dispute Resolution for Services process in Section B6 of Annex 2. In summary, we may gather information from both parties and make a determination. We reserve the right, in our sole discretion, to decide whether to (a) release full or partial payment to the Helper, (b) issue a full or partial refund to the Client (by crediting Hearts to their account), or (c) any other resolution. Both Clients and Helpers agree to abide by our decision in such cases, though it does not waive either party’s right to pursue legal remedies against each other outside the platform if warranted. However, by using the platform, you agree not to sue or hold Moms Effect liable for our decision on a dispute or for our role in facilitating payments, provided we act in good faith.
Cancellation: If a booking is canceled before it is completed, the handling of the escrowed payment depends on the timing and cause of cancellation (see Section B6 in Annex 2 for detailed cancellation and refund terms). Generally, if a Client cancels with sufficient notice or due to a valid emergency, we’ll refund the Hearts to the Client (possibly minus any cancellation fee if applicable). If a Helper cancels or no-shows, we’ll usually refund the Client in full, and the Helper might face penalties (like a fee or account suspension for repeated issues). The specifics will be communicated in our cancellation policy.
No Interest & No Commingling: Funds held in escrow do not earn interest for Users. Users agree that we may commingle escrow funds with general company funds or hold them in a pooled account (e.g., with Stripe’s financial partners) with funds of other users, and that we have no obligation to segregate by user. These funds are tracked internally to ensure they are allocated properly to Users at completion. We operate in this capacity as a custodian, not as a trustee nor as a banking service.
Chargebacks and Reversals: If a Client’s payment is later subject to a chargeback or bank reversal (for example, the credit card issuer reverses the charge), Moms Effect will handle it as follows: If the funds have not yet been released to the Helper, we will deduct the corresponding Hearts and return them to the card issuer (effectively canceling the payment). If the funds have been released to the Helper, we will notify the Helper and the Helper must cooperate with us in investigating the issue. Helpers agree that we have the right to recover the amount of any chargeback from them if the chargeback resulted from their fraudulent or violation-of-terms conduct. We may deduct such amount from the Helper’s balance or future earnings, or seek reimbursement directly. Conversely, if a chargeback is deemed wrongful (e.g., a Client received the service and is attempting to avoid payment), we may dispute it with the payment processor. Helpers should retain proof of work (communications, receipts, etc.) for defense in such cases.
Limited Payment Agent Acknowledgment: Both Clients and Helpers acknowledge and agree that the entirety of the payment processing and escrow arrangement is intended to benefit both parties and does not make Moms Effect a party to the underlying contract. Helpers appoint Moms Effect (and Stripe, acting on our behalf) as their agent for the limited purpose of receiving and holding funds from Clients as described. This agency is intended to facilitate a seamless payment process. Moms Effect’s receipt of funds on behalf of a Helper satisfies the Client’s obligation to pay the Helper, and any Client’s liability to the Helper for payment is extinguished upon receipt by Moms Effect. In the rare event that Moms Effect fails to remit funds to a Helper after a successful service completion (for example, due to unforeseen technical failure), the Helper’s recourse is against Moms Effect, not the Client, since the Client’s obligation was fulfilled by paying into the platform. (We have measures to safeguard funds and this scenario is highly unlikely, but we state it for clarity.)
4.5. Payouts to Users; Withdrawal. Users can withdraw their hearts through the Service’s payout interface.
Withdrawal Methods: The primary method is direct bank transfer (ACH in the U.S., or similar bank transfer in other countries) via Stripe. To enable this, Helpers must have a connected Stripe account with a valid bank account linked. We may also allow withdrawals to debit cards or other methods as made available.
Timing: We endeavor to make funds available for withdrawal as soon as possible after completion of a job and resolution of any immediate issues. However, to manage risk (e.g., chance of chargebacks or complaints), we reserve the right to impose a short holding period on new users or large transactions (for example, we might initially hold funds for 1-2 business days post-completion). We will clearly communicate any such hold in your account. Typically, once you initiate a withdrawal, standard bank transfers take a few days to arrive. If using an instant payout (if offered), it could be minutes or hours but may incur an adtional fee.
Withdrawal Limits: We may impose minimum or maximum withdrawal limits for security. For example, you might need at least $10 (or equivalent in Hearts) to initiate a withdrawal, or we might limit daily withdrawals to a certain amount. If you have an urgent need outside these limits, you can contact support and we’ll consider exceptions case by case.
Errors: It’s critical that you provide accurate payout information. We are not responsible for funds sent to the wrong account if the information you provided was incorrect (e.g., mistyped account number). If a payout fails due to incorrect info or a closed account, the funds should bounce back to us/Stripe and we’ll ask you to update details. This may delay your payment.
Currency for Users: Users will receive payouts in their local currency if supported by Stripe (Stripe will handle conversion from USD at their rate) or other party. If Stripe or other pary doesn’t support your local currency, we might require linking an account in a supported currency. Any conversion or international wire fees are typically borne by the recipient (Stripe usually subtracts those from the payout).
4.6. Refunds and Credits Policy. On occasion, a Client may be entitled to a refund of Hearts or a credit, and we handle this within the platform:
Client-Initiated Refunds: If a Client is unsatisfied with a service or if a task was not performed, they should report this through the app and/or request a refund promptly. We will evaluate the request in line with our dispute policy (Section B6, Annex 2). If a refund is granted, we will usually return the Hearts to the Client’s account (so they can use them again on another task) or, if the Client is leaving the platform or law requires, users can withdraw hearts at any time after pending disputes are resolved.
Platform Credits: In some cases, we may issue “bonus” Hearts or credits as a courtesy (for example, if a minor inconvenience occurred, we might give a few free Hearts as goodwill). These credits will be clearly labeled in your account and may have an expiration date or conditions if promotional. They have no cash value and are only for use on the platform.
Finality of Transactions: Except for the above scenarios, all purchases of Hearts and payments made through Moms Effect are final and non-refundable. This means once a service has been completed and the Helper paid, the Client generally cannot get their money back (unless the Helper agrees or a dispute is resolved in Client’s favor). Hearts purchased but unused by a Client are non-refundable; however, if you choose to close your account with an unused Hearts balance, you may contact us. At our discretion and if permitted by law, we might return unused Hearts (minus any transaction fees or discounts used) especially if the amount is significant. For small balances, we encourage using them up before leaving. In certain jurisdictions, laws may require unredeemed Hearts to be refundable or treated a certain way. We will comply with those laws.
Fraudulent Transactions: If we believe a purchase or acquisition of Hearts or payment was made fraudulently or in violation of these Terms, we reserve the right to cancel the transaction, revoke the Hearts, and take appropriate action on the account (including legal action if necessary). You will not be entitled to any refund for Hearts obtained fraudulently.
4.7. User Liability for Fees and Charges. You are responsible for paying any amounts you owe to Moms Effect or other users on time and in full:
If your account has a negative balance or you owe us fees (for example, due to chargebacks, or if we advanced a payment to you which got reversed, or cancellation fees you incur, etc.), we may deduct those amounts from any future credits or payouts to you, or charge your payment method on file. We may also involve collections efforts if necessary, consistent with law.
You agree to reimburse us for any costs we incur in collecting debts or fees from you, including reasonable attorneys’ fees and collection agency charges, except where prohibited by law.
We may, in our discretion, allow installment or payment plans for large amounts owed, but unless explicitly agreed, all amounts are immediately due and subject to penalties.
4.8. Taxes and Reporting (U.S. Specific and Global).
Hearts earned and Taxes: As noted, Helpers and moms’bassadors are independent contractors and responsible for their own taxes. In the U.S., if you earn $600 or more in a calendar year via Moms Effect, we (or Stripe on our behalf) will typically issue you an IRS Form 1099-NEC or 1099-K as applicable, by the required deadline (usually January 31 of the following year). We will use the tax information (Legal Name, Address, and Social Security Number or EIN) you provided during Stripe onboarding for this purpose. You agree to promptly provide any tax forms, documentation, or certifications we may request to ascertain your tax status (like a Form W-9 for U.S. persons, or W-8BEN for non-U.S. persons, etc.). If you fail to provide requested information and we cannot verify you for tax purposes, we may be required by the IRS to impose backup withholding on your payouts (currently 24%) or we may suspend further payments until resolved. We will attempt to warn you before such drastic steps.
Clients’ Taxes: In general, Clients are paying for personal or household services, which might not require any tax forms from our end. However, if you are a business using our platform to find contractors, it’s your responsibility to issue any required tax forms to those contractors outside the platform (unless you are paying them through us as the intermediary in which case we might have handled it as above). Also, if any governmental agency determines that sales tax, use tax, VAT, GST or similar is due on the services you purchased, it is your responsibility to pay such tax (unless we have collected it). For example, some states might impose sales tax on certain services; we currently do not automatically add sales tax to service transactions, so it’s up to the service provider and client to handle any applicable tax in the price.
Platform Taxes: Moms Effect will handle its own income taxes and taxes on the fees we collect from users. If a jurisdiction requires us to collect digital platform taxes or similar (e.g., a tax on the platform’s fee or on the overall transaction), we will either include that in the fee or add it clearly.
International Users: If you are outside the U.S., we will comply with local tax laws applicable to our operations. For instance, if EU VAT rules apply, our fees might include VAT or we might zero-rate if appropriate and you might self-account under reverse charge if you’re a business. Specifics will be provided in policy or during transactions. For Helpers outside the U.S., you are responsible for reporting income to your local tax authorities. We might not issue local tax forms except if required by local law or via Stripe’s processes. Stripe may require certain information to comply with your country’s regulations (e.g., VAT ID, or proof of identity for KYC) which you must provide.
4.9. Third-Party Payment Issues. While we do our best to ensure smooth transactions, there are some things outside our control:
Bank Fees: You are responsible for any fees your bank or card issuer charges (for example, foreign transaction fees, cash advance fees (shouldn’t apply to normal purchases, but some cards treat certain online payments oddly), overdraft fees, etc.).
App Store: If you downloaded our app via Apple App Store or Google Play and use in-app purchases for Hearts, be aware those that are facilitated by Apple/Google. In some cases, Apple/Google might appear on your billing statement. Any refund for such purchases may have to be processed by us through the app store, which can be a slightly different procedure (we will assist as needed). The core terms remain the same though.
Technical Glitches: If a technical error causes an incorrect charge (say, you get charged twice due to a page refresh or our system miscalculates Hearts), we will correct it and issue a credit as appropriate. Please report any suspected billing errors to support@momseffect.com within 30 days. We will investigate and resolve legitimate errors.
For full detailed terms on payments and escrow (including examples and procedures for disputes, cancellations, etc.), please refer to Annex 2: Payments and Escrow Terms, which is hereby incorporated.
5. Community Standards and User Conduct
Summary: We expect everyone to behave respectfully and lawfully on Moms Effect. This section (and Annex 3) lays out what’s okay and not okay. Key rules: No harassment, hate, or discrimination. No sharing of inappropriate or illegal content. No misinformation or scams. Respect privacy, don’t share other people’s personal info without consent. Use your verification badge honestly. Our platform uses a mix of private encrypted messaging and public forums. We care about privacy, but if something is reported to us (even in an encrypted chat), we may access and review the content to keep the community safe (this is the “snapshot” rule. We take a snapshot of an otherwise private conversation when you report an issue, encrypted communications are locked to the 5 most recent messages, so moderators can see what happened). In short, be kind, be truthful, follow the law and report immediately. If you don’t, we may warn you, remove content, or ban you, and in serious cases report you to authorities.
5.1. Community Standards Overview. Our Community Standards (detailed in Annex 3) are the guidelines for how users should act on Moms Effect to keep it safe and welcoming. All users must uphold these standards whenever using the Service (posting content, messaging, doing a job, etc.). Here’s a high-level summary of prohibited conduct:
Harassment or Hate: Do not harass, bully, or threaten others. Absolutely no hate speech, slurs, or discriminatory remarks based on race, ethnicity, nationality, religion, gender, sex, sexual orientation, disability, or any other protected characteristic. Everyone deserves respect.
Harm or Exploitation: Do not engage in or promote violent, self-harm, or exploitative behavior. This includes sexual exploitation or abuse of any person, especially minors. Content that sexualizes minors or any form of child abuse will be reported to law enforcement.
Misinformation and Illegal Advice: Do not spread false information that could harm others (for example, anti-vaccine conspiracies, dangerous health misinformation, scams). Also, do not use the platform to plan or advise on illegal activities.
Impersonation and False Identity: Do not impersonate any person or entity you’re not (this includes not misrepresenting your qualifications or credentials). You also may not falsely imply endorsement or partnership with Moms Effect. Using someone else’s account or giving your account to someone else is forbidden.
Privacy and Personal Data: Do not post or share sensitive personal information of others without consent (doxxing). For example, don’t share someone’s home address, phone number, financial info, or private family matters publicly. For Helpers, you must treat any Client’s personal information (like their address, schedule, children’s names) with confidentiality.
Spam and Commercial Use: The platform is for personal use and community-building around our mission. Do not spam users with unsolicited promotions, advertisements, or requests that are not relevant to the platform’s purpose. You may not run a business that just uses our user base for leads without contributing to the community. Also, no chain letters, pyramid schemes, or multi-level marketing pitches.
Malware and Security Attacks: Do not upload viruses, malware, or any malicious code. Don’t attempt to hack, overload, or disrupt the platform (no DDOS, no interfering with our servers, or circumventing security measures).
Prohibited Content: Do not upload or share content that is obscene, pornographic (especially any non-consensual or underage content), extremely graphic, or otherwise objectionable beyond socially acceptable standards for a family-oriented platform. Some mild content might be okay in context (like breastfeeding advice with appropriate images), but use discretion and respect the audience.
No Inappropriate Solicitations: Helpers should not solicit clients for services outside the platform (non-circumvention, as in 3.6). Likewise, users should not solicit others for dating or romantic meetups, this is not a dating app; keep interactions professional or friendly in context. Any sexual harassment or unwanted advances will result in removal.
Compliance with Verification: If you have a verification badge or status (like identity verified or background check passed), you must use it honestly. Do not allow anyone else to use your verified status (e.g., by sharing your account). Do not fake or forge any verification documents. If your circumstances change (e.g., you commit an offense after a background check) such that prior verification might no longer be valid, you must inform us; failure to do so could be considered a serious breach.
Multiple Accounts and Evasion: Do not create alternate accounts to evade a ban or other enforcement action. If you’re suspended, respect the process and reach out to us if you think it’s a mistake; don’t just make a new account.
5.2. User Content and License. Users can create various types of content on Moms Effect profiles, job postings, messages, forum posts, reviews, etc. We need certain rights to use that content to operate the service:
Your Ownership: You retain ownership of the content you create and post on Moms Effect (e.g., your profile details, descriptions, photos you upload, messages you send, and any other materials). We do not claim ownership of your original content. However…
License to Moms Effect: By submitting or posting content on or through our Service, you grant Moms Effect a worldwide, non-exclusive, royalty-free, fully paid, sublicensable and transferable license to use, reproduce, modify (for technical purposes, e.g., resizing images or converting file formats), adapt, publish, translate, create derivative works from, distribute, and display such content for the purposes of operating and promoting the Service. For example, this license allows us to show your profile to other users, display your reviews, include your content in our social media promotions or marketing (we might quote a testimonial or success story), and to make backups of our database that include user content. If you post a photo of a craft you made to your profile, we can display it to illustrate your services, etc. We will not sell your content to third parties or use it outside of Service context without further permission.
Duration of License: This license lasts as long as your content is available on the Service and for a reasonable period thereafter (for example, if you delete content, our license will end once caches or backups update). However, any content that has been shared with other users (like a forum post or message) may persist in their view or our logs even after you delete it. If you delete your account, we’ll delete or anonymize personal data as per the Privacy Policy, but your contributed content (e.g., forum posts) might remain in an anonymized form (unless you request complete removal and it’s feasible to do so). Reviews you wrote about others usually stay (as they are about the other user), but may be anonymized.
Content Warranties: You represent and warrant that you have all necessary rights to post the content you share and to grant the above license. For example, if you upload a photo, you either own that photo or have permission to use it. You also warrant that your content does not infringe any intellectual property or privacy rights of others, and that it complies with the law and these Terms (no prohibited content as in 5.1).
Feedback: If you provide us with any suggestions, ideas, or feedback about Moms Effect or improvements (“Feedback”), you agree that we can use and share such Feedback for any purpose without compensation to you, and you irrevocably assign any rights in that Feedback to us.
5.3. Monitoring and Enforcement. We reserve the right (but are not obligated) to monitor user behavior and content on the Service to enforce these Terms:
Content Moderation: We may review public postings (like profiles, job requests, forum discussions) and remove or edit any content that in our judgment violates the Community Standards or is otherwise objectionable. For private communications (like direct messages between users), see Section 5.4 below regarding encryption and reports.
Reporting Mechanism: If you see content or behavior that violates these Terms or makes you feel unsafe, please report it to us. The platform provides tools (e.g., a “Report” button on messages or profiles, or an email to support@momseffect.com) to alert our moderation team. We will promptly review reports and take appropriate action. We may acknowledge your report but for privacy, we likely won’t detail another user’s consequences to you.
Enforcement Actions: If a user violates the Terms or community standards, we may take one or more of the following actions, as appropriate:
Issue a warning or reminder of the rules (for minor first-time issues).
Require the user to edit or remove offending content.
Remove or hide the offending content ourselves.
Impose a temporary suspension on the user’s account (e.g., a 7-day ban from all or selected services).
Terminate the user’s account (for serious or repeat violations).
Revoke features or privileges (e.g., remove a verification badge if misused, or restrict a Helper from seeing certain requests if they misbehaved).
Involve law enforcement if the behavior is unlawful or presents real threats (we will report things like credible threats of violence, evidence of child exploitation, etc., and comply with legal investigations).
Pursue legal action against the user (for example, if they caused significant harm or damages to us or others, or violated intellectual property rights, etc.).
No Tolerance for Certain Violations: Some behaviors (like harassment, hate speech, fraud, or endangering minors) may result in immediate account termination on the first offense, at our discretion.
Appeal: If you believe we have unfairly removed your content or suspended/terminated your account, you may contact us to appeal the decision. We will review appeals in good faith. However, our decision on such matters is final. We are not obligated to provide second chances, but will consider context. Keep in mind that while we want a thriving community, safety is our top priority.
5.4. Messaging, Encryption, and Privacy of Communications. Moms Effect may offer both public forums and private messaging between users. We care about your privacy, and some communications might be end-to-end encrypted (meaning even we can’t read them). However, we also have to maintain a safe environment and address abuse:
Encrypted Chats: Certain direct messages or calls between users on Moms Effect may be protected by end-to-end encryption. If a chat is end-to-end encrypted, it means the content is only visible to the sender and receiver; Moms Effect’s servers do not have the plain text and cannot decrypt it. We implement this to ensure your private conversations. Especially when coordinating sensitive family matters remain confidential. We will indicate in the app which chats (or types of chats) are encrypted. For example, one-on-one or group messaging between users might be E2E encrypted, whereas job chats, group forums or posts are not.
Snapshot for Reports (Encryption Exception): If you report a conversation or user for violating our rules, you understand and agree that we may obtain a “snapshot” of recent messages in that encrypted conversation to evaluate the report. Technically, this might be achieved by the app client (on your device) securely sending us the last few messages (including potentially the offending one) when you hit “Report.” This allows our moderators to see the context of what happened. The snapshot is limited to the last 5 messages. We designed this to balance privacy with safety. We will only use such decrypted content for the purpose of investigating the report and enforcing rules. We treat it as highly confidential. If no violation is found or once resolved, we will securely discard the plaintext content, retaining only necessary records (e.g., that a violation occurred and any imposed penalty) but not ongoing access to your private messages.
Non-Encrypted Content: Other content, like your profile, job postings, forum discussions, reviews, and any unencrypted chats, are stored on our servers in plain text and can be accessed by us for moderation or support purposes at any time. Even for encrypted chats, metadata (such as timestamps, participant identities, and possibly message headers) may be stored on our servers and can be used to investigate issues (e.g., to see who chatted with whom when, even though we can’t read what was said).
Voice/Video Calls: If our Service supports voice or video calls between users, those calls might be peer-to-peer or through an encrypted channel. We do not record or listen to encrypted calls, except when expressly noted (a supervised call scenario might exist if we implement a training or interview feature and all participants will be notified).
Use of Communications: All user communications should be used solely for the intended purpose of arranging and conducting services or participating in community discussions. You must not use messaging to spam, harass, or solicit others for off-platform business. If someone asks you to move the conversation off-platform in a suspicious way (like to avoid oversight or to conduct payment elsewhere), please be cautious and report it.
Privacy Expectations: We aim to keep your communications private from any unnecessary viewing, but no system is 100% secure. By using the Service, you acknowledge that communications might not be completely private. For instance, law enforcement could subpoena records, or a bug could mistakenly log something. We will follow our Privacy Policy in handling the data that still exists. We also remind you that the other party in a chat could always screenshot or share your messages; encryption only prevents unauthorized access via us, not misuse by the recipient. So only share what you are comfortable with the other person knowing or possibly sharing.
Storage: We may limit how long messages are stored (especially if encrypted, we might auto-delete them after some period to enhance privacy). We’ll communicate if such limits exist (e.g., “messages auto-delete after 6 months” or "disappearing messages”). Always save any important information externally if you need it long-term.
Emergency Access: In extreme cases where a life-threatening situation is reported, we might handover encrypted data without a user report (for example, if required by law with proper warrant, or if both users consent to us intervening). Our system is designed to minimize such scenarios. We will do everything we can to help, but note, even we don't have the ability to decrypt encrypted messages and it may not be possible for law enforcement to access the necessary information in a timely manner.
5.5. Use of Verification Badge and Identity. If Moms Effect grants you a verification badge or status (e.g., “ID Verified”, “Background Check Verified”, or any similar Trust indicator), the following rules apply:
Truthfulness: You may not falsify or misrepresent a verification. For example, you cannot say “I am background-checked” if you declined our check or failed it. You cannot copy or use badges you haven’t earned.
Non-Transferability: Verifications are tied to you personally. You cannot let someone else use your account or profile to circumvent verification. (E.g., Don’t have an unverified friend take a job using your verified profile.) This is grounds for immediate termination.
Revocation: Moms Effect may revoke a verification at any time if we suspect that the verification criteria are no longer met or were obtained fraudulently. For instance, if a crime is reported on your record after you passed a background check, we may remove the “background check” badge until you undergo a new check. Or if we learn that the ID you provided was fake, we will remove “ID verified” and take additional action.
Limited Meaning: Understand that a verification badge is not an endorsement or guarantee by Moms Effect of any user. It simply means that at one point, a certain verification step was completed (e.g., ID was confirmed, or background check returned no disqualifying information). All users, even verified ones, must still abide by the rules and exercise judgment. Do not rely solely on a badge; use all information available (reviews, your gut feeling, etc.) when deciding to work with someone.
5.6. Prohibited Use of Service & Fair Use. You agree not to misuse the Moms Effect Service. In addition to earlier restrictions, you will not, directly or indirectly:
Use any robot, scraper, crawler, or other automated means to access or extract data from the Service without our permission (except that indexing by reputable search engines is allowed to the extent we permit in our robots.txt).
Reverse engineer, decompile, disassemble, or attempt to derive source code from the Service, except to the extent allowed by law (if any).
Attempt to bypass any content-filtering techniques, security measures, or access controls that we have put in place (for example, don’t try to create accounts if you’re underage by lying about your age, or if you’ve been banned, don’t try to come back without our consent).
Upload or transmit any content that you do not have the right to make available (for example, proprietary information of others, or personal data of others in violation of privacy laws).
Engage in any conduct that could damage, disable, or overburden our infrastructure (like a denial of service attack or deliberately introducing vulnerabilities).
Misrepresent your affiliation or relationship with Moms Effect (like saying you are an employee or agent of ours when you are not, or using our logo without permission to imply endorsement).
Solicit login credentials from another user or harvest users’ personal information for any reason outside of using the Service (phishing and similar scams are forbidden).
Post content that violates any third-party rights (e.g., posting copyrighted material like an eBook PDF that you don’t own, or someone else’s photos without permission). If you believe content on our site infringes your copyright, please see Section 7.3 (DMCA).
Use the Service in a manner that violates any laws (like trying to facilitate money laundering, or using our payment system for unauthorized transactions unrelated to our core services).
