In a corporate acquisition (such as a share or asset purchase), to hold part of the purchase monies for an agreed period following completion to secure certain post-completion obligations of the seller (most commonly, its liability for warranty or indemnity claims), or the parties' post-completion payment obligations under an agreed price adjustment mechanism (such as a completion accounts adjustment). For further information, see Practice note, Structuring the purchase price: acquisitions: Retention arrangements (escrow).

In a construction and engineering context, to secure payments due from the employer under a building contract. For further information, see Practice note, Escrow and project bank accounts on construction projects: an introduction.