Copy, paste, edit the numbers, done. Three tiers below - pick the one that matches your clientele and your tolerance for empty slots, then put it where clients actually see it: the booking page, the confirmation, and every reminder.
Template 1 - Gentle (new businesses, loyal clientele)
"Life happens! If you need to cancel or reschedule, please give me at least 24 hours' notice so I can offer your time to someone else. Repeated late cancellations may require a deposit for future bookings. Thank you for respecting the time I set aside for you."
Use when: you're building a client base and enforcement matters less than tone. Note it still sets the norm and reserves the right to escalate.
Template 2 - Standard (most solo service businesses)
"Your appointment time is reserved just for you. Cancellations or reschedules within 24 hours of your appointment are charged 50% of the service price; missed appointments without notice are charged 100%. Emergencies happen - your first late cancellation is always waived."
Use when: you have a card on file or deposits, so the percentages are real. The one-time grace clause keeps it human.
Template 3 - Strict (high-demand, waitlisted, or prep-heavy services)
"A [50%] deposit is required to book and is applied to your service. Cancellations with 48+ hours' notice receive a full deposit refund or transfer. Within 48 hours, the deposit is forfeited. No-shows are charged 100% of the service price. This policy has no exceptions so that it's fair to every client on the waitlist."
Use when: every slot has an opportunity cost - you turn people away, or you prep materials in advance.
Policies that enforce themselves
Paste your policy into Ivy once - it shows at booking, goes in every reminder, and applies your fee via card on file.
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