How to reduce no-shows with booking deposits

A no-show costs more than the price of the appointment. The time is gone, it’s usually too late to fill it, and someone else who wanted that slot may have booked elsewhere. A small deposit at the time of booking is one of the simplest ways to cut no-shows down.

Why deposits work

Once a client has paid something, the booking feels real. They are more likely to turn up, and if they can’t, more likely to let you know in time. Deposits also put off people who book several places “just in case” and only turn up to one.

Fixed amount or percentage?

There are two ways to set a deposit: the same fixed amount for every booking, or a percentage of the price. A fixed amount is simple to explain and suits businesses whose services cost about the same. A percentage grows with the price, so a long or expensive appointment is better protected than a quick one. It suits businesses with a wide range of prices.

Keep it small enough that it doesn’t put genuine clients off. The aim is commitment, not payment up front.

Choose which services need one

You don’t have to take a deposit for everything. They matter most for long or expensive appointments, and for slots that are hard to fill at short notice. For quick, low-cost services, or a free consultation, a deposit can be more hassle than it’s worth.

Make your terms clear

Write your cancellation terms in plain words: how much notice you need, and what happens to the deposit if someone cancels late or doesn’t turn up. Show them before the client books and pays, and again in the confirmation email, so nobody is surprised. Then apply them the same way for everyone.

Make it easy to cancel in time

Deposits work best alongside a few other habits:

• A reminder the day before, so the appointment isn't forgotten
• An easy way for clients to reschedule or cancel online, up to your notice period
• A waiting list, so a freed-up slot can go to someone else

Deposits in Bookpin

Deposits in Bookpin are optional. Connect your Stripe account, choose a fixed amount or a percentage, and clients pay it when they book. The money goes straight to you, and Bookpin takes no cut. Clients see your cancellation terms before they book, so everyone knows where they stand.

See everything that’s included on the features page.