How ASCEND Works
Learn how ASCEND's escrow-protected marketplace works. Browse accounts, pay safely via escrow, receive credentials, verify and release payment. Step-by-step guide.
The 4-Step Trading Process
- Browse the Marketplace — Search by game, rank, price, or features. Every listing shows the seller's verified status, delivery method, and recovery risk rating.
- Pay via Escrow — Complete checkout using GCash, Maya, bank transfer, or card through PayMongo. Your payment is held by ASCEND — not the seller.
- Seller Delivers the Account — Credentials are sent through ASCEND's secure delivery system. Instant Delivery listings send credentials automatically within minutes.
- Verify and Release Payment — Log in and confirm the account matches the listing. Once satisfied, release payment. If something is wrong, open a dispute within 48 hours for a full refund.
What Protects You
- Escrow Holds Your Payment — Funds are never sent directly to the seller. ASCEND holds payment in escrow until you confirm delivery.
- KYC-Verified Sellers — Every seller submits a government-issued ID and completes face verification before their first listing is approved.
- 48-Hour Dispute Window — After confirming delivery, you have 48 hours to open a dispute if you discover a problem.
- Secure Credential Delivery — Account credentials are transmitted through ASCEND's encrypted system, creating an auditable record of exactly what was delivered and when.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What if I forget to release payment?
- If you don't confirm or dispute within the review window (typically 72 hours), ASCEND may release payment automatically to protect sellers from buyers who simply ignore delivery. Always confirm or dispute within the window.
- Can the seller see my payment information?
- No. Payment details are handled by PayMongo (a BSP-licensed gateway) and ASCEND. Sellers only see that payment was received — never your card number, GCash number, or bank details.
- What happens if a dispute is opened?
- Both the buyer and seller submit evidence. ASCEND's support team reviews the delivery records, screenshots, and communications, then issues a ruling within 48 hours. Buyers who are ruled in favor receive a full refund. Sellers who are ruled in favor receive their payment.
- Is there a time limit on opening a dispute?
- You must open a dispute within 48 hours of confirming delivery. After that window closes, the transaction is considered final. Do not release payment until you've verified the account is correct.