What is the term used for a payment method that is held back to ensure project completion?

The term for a payment method that is held back to ensure project completion is retainage. In construction contracts, retainage is a portion of the payment that is withheld until the project is finished satisfactorily. This practice serves as an incentive for the contractor to complete the work on time and meet quality standards, as they will not receive the full payment until these conditions are satisfied. By holding back a certain percentage of the payment, project owners can ensure that contractors remain invested in successfully completing the project, addressing any outstanding issues or defects that may arise prior to final completion. Retainage is commonly defined in the contract, outlining how much will be held back and the conditions for its release upon satisfactory completion of the project.