Tattoo deposit policy template (with refund and reschedule rules)

Updated October 21, 2026

A tattoo deposit policy says how much the deposit is, whether it ever comes back, and what happens when a client reschedules, cancels, runs late or doesn't show. Here's a template you can copy, then adjust the numbers to fit how you work.

Template

Deposit: A $100 deposit is required to book. Your appointment isn't confirmed until it's paid. The deposit comes off the price of your tattoo at your final session.

Refunds: Deposits are non-refundable, but they move to your new date if you reschedule with at least 2 days (48 hours) notice.

Rescheduling: You can reschedule once with at least 48 hours notice. After that, or with less notice, a new deposit is needed to book again.

Cancellations: Cancelling with less than 48 hours notice forfeits your deposit.

Running late: If you're more than 15 minutes late, the appointment may be shortened or treated as a no-show.

No-shows: If you miss your appointment without notice, your deposit is forfeited.

Age and ID: You must be 18 or older and bring a valid photo ID.

Want different numbers? The booking policy generator rewrites this for your deposit, notice periods and age rule.

Refundable, non-refundable, or transferable?

• Non-refundable protects your drawing time completely, but can feel harsh when life happens.
• Non-refundable but transferable is the most common middle ground: the money stays with you, and a client who gives notice keeps it for a new date.
• Refundable with notice is the friendliest, and works best if you don't start drawing until close to the appointment.

A policy only works if they agreed to it

The weak spot in most deposit policies is proof. A rule in your highlights or a pinned post is easy for a client to say they never saw. What holds up is the client reading the policy and agreeing to it right before paying, with a dated record of which version they agreed to.

This isn't legal advice, and deposit rules can differ by state. If you're unsure about yours, check with a local professional.