Appointment deposits are one of the simplest ways to reduce no-shows. The goal is not to punish clients. The goal is to turn a casual booking into a real commitment and protect the time you blocked off.
Choose a deposit rule clients can understand
Keep the rule simple enough that a client can understand it before they book. The best options are a flat amount for shorter services and a percentage for longer, higher-value services.
- $20 to $30 for short appointments
- 25% for services around 60 to 90 minutes
- 25% to 50% for colour, extensions, spa packages, or long treatments
- Full prepayment for high-risk bookings or special events
Show the policy before payment
Clients should see the deposit amount, what it applies to, and whether it is refundable before they confirm. Put the same language on your booking page, confirmation email, and reminder messages.
A deposit is required to reserve this appointment. Deposits are applied to your final balance. Deposits may be forfeited for no-shows or cancellations inside the posted cancellation window.
Decide how refunds work
A good policy separates early cancellations from last-minute cancellations. For example: refundable with 24 or 48 hours of notice, non-refundable inside that window, and reviewed manually for emergencies.
This is business guidance, not legal advice. If you operate in a regulated field or have unusual refund terms, review your policy with a qualified professional.
Use card-on-file for the remaining policy
Deposits help, but card-on-file makes your cancellation policy enforceable. If a client no-shows, you can charge the posted fee without an awkward invoice or manual follow-up.
Pulse supports deposits, card-on-file, and no-show protection together. See the full booking deposit feature page.