Setting your cancellation policy

Your time is your income. A clear deposit and cancellation policy protects it — and because clients agree to it up front, it’s fair to everyone.

The deposit

A deposit is taken when a client books. It secures the slot, counts toward the service price, and gives you protection if they don’t show. You set the deposit as part of your services.

Your cancellation window

Set how far ahead a client can cancel for free. Typically:

• Cancel early (within your free window) — the deposit is refunded.
• Cancel late — the deposit is kept, since you held that time and may not be able to fill it.

No-shows

A no-show is treated as a late cancellation, so the deposit protects you. Clients see your policy before they confirm, so there are no disputes later.

Keep it fair

A reasonable window builds goodwill while still protecting you. Clients respect a clear, fair policy — and it’s shown transparently at booking, so nobody is caught out.

See also: Getting paid and payouts explains how the deposit reaches your account.