↗ · Free template
Deposit agreement that makes the booking real.
Deposit amount, what it secures, refund terms, and the client's signature in one short form, so the date is held by an agreement instead of a promise.
Free forever · 2 forms · No credit card
Last updated
Deposit agreement
Template- Client full name*text
- Email*email
- Service or booking date*date
- Deposit amount*text
- Refund and cancellation terms acknowledgement*checkbox☐
- Signature*signatureSign here
↗ · What it's for
A deposit without signed terms is just money with vibes attached: when a client cancels late, the argument starts about what the deposit was for. This template states the amount, what it secures, the refund and cancellation terms, and captures the client's signature against that exact text, so retaining (or refunding) the deposit is executing an agreement, not winning an argument.
Worth knowing · Deposit and cancellation terms are regulated for some industries and consumer contexts (non-refundable clauses especially). Make sure your refund terms are enforceable where you operate.
When to use it
- Photographers and videographers holding shoot dates against a retainer
- Caterers, venues, and planners securing event dates with deposit terms
- Trades and contractors taking a materials deposit before ordering
- Salons and studios protecting appointment slots from no-shows
Built for a specific workflow? See how freelancers & agencies teams use Sign Sail →
↗ · Questions
The template, answered.
Does this process the deposit payment?
No, and that's deliberate: take the money through your usual invoice or payment link, and use this form to put the terms behind it on the record. The signed agreement is what settles the dispute when a cancellation lands; the payment processor only proves money moved.
Are non-refundable deposit terms enforceable?
Often, if they're clear, agreed to in advance, and reasonable for your jurisdiction, which is precisely what a signed, timestamped acknowledgment of the exact terms demonstrates. Some consumer-protection regimes restrict them, so check your local rules.
Can I pair this with my booking contract?
Yes. For bigger engagements, put the deposit terms inside the full booking contract instead. This standalone version exists for quick bookings where a full contract is overkill but a handshake isn't enough.
Hold the date with terms, not trust.
Start free with two forms. Set your deposit terms once and send the agreement with every booking confirmation.