Deposits

Write a rental deposit policy the checkout and return team can follow

The policy should explain when a deposit is required, how the amount is set, what happens at checkout, and how return condition affects retention or refund.

Rental deposit and payment view showing required deposits, payment status, exposure, and Stripe Connect readiness

Quick answer

Reviewed July 22, 2026

Set a default approach and document when a product, customer, or order may use a different deposit amount or no deposit. Eligible product categories. Default and product-level amounts.

01

Define the requirement before the order
Set a default approach and document when a product, customer, or order may use a different deposit amount or no deposit.
Eligible product categories
Default and product-level amounts
Accepted payment methods
Exceptions and approval ownership

02

Keep the agreed amount stable
Store the deposit requirement on the order so a later catalog change does not rewrite what the customer accepted.
Order deposit snapshot
Payment status before checkout
Document and signature context
Clear customer communication

03

Tie the decision to return inspection
Refund or retention should follow a recorded inspection with clear damage, loss, cleaning, late-return, or missing-accessory context.
Inspection owner and timing
Evidence and notes
Refund or retention record
Customer notification

Resource guide

Run this checklist in RentalBench

Tell us what is hardest about deposits today, and we can show you how RentalBench keeps the records out of separate sheets and notes.

Inventory, SKUs, and item status

Availability, reservations, and due-back dates

Orders, deposits, checkout, and returns

Prefer email? Reach us at hello@rentalbench.com. We reply directly.