Patreon is a real, functioning platform with a long track record — but the complaint record has thickened over the last two years as the platform raised its fees and restructured its payout mechanics. The most consistent theme is creators discovering the effective take rate is higher than advertised once payment processor fees, currency conversion, and Patreon's own cut are stacked together. The payout delay (up to 30 days after billing) is also a recurring sore point for creators who depend on the income.