Challenges for Bench Customers Post-Employer.com Acquisition
After the sudden shutdown and subsequent acquisition by Employer.com, customers of the accounting startup Bench are struggling to retrieve their financial data.
Bench Shutdown and Acquisition
Bench, a Canadian-based startup that raised $113 million, closed without warning, leaving many businesses without critical accounting and tax documents. Employer.com, an HR tech company, quickly acquired it.
Employer.com’s Background
While Employer.com might be a new name, it operates under Recruiting.com Ventures. Jesse Tinsley, the CEO, has a portfolio of HR-related businesses, including Recruiter.com and BountyJobs.
Data Access Issue
Despite Employer.com’s profitable status, its lack of accounting and tax expertise has some Bench customers worried. Several customers claim they can only access their data if they consent to transfer their data to Employer.com, raising concerns.
Customer Complaints
Customers of Bench report they feel misled about the conditions to get their data. Further, some believe Employer.com’s updated privacy policy fails to adequately protect their financial information, leading to an increase in the search for alternative providers.
Response from Employer.com
Employer.com ensures that customers can manage their data after providing consent – including downloading, deleting, or continuing services on the platform. However, any refunds for advance payments made for future services must be processed through the bankruptcy trustee for Bench Accounting Inc. or through Stripe.
Fonte original: Leia a matéria completa no TechCrunch
