Why policies matter
Policies are your written rules for things like refunds, returns, and shipping. Clear policies reduce arguments and build trust. Shopify shows policy links at checkout and in your store footer.
Refund and return policy
Say whether you accept returns, the time limit, condition required, who pays return shipping, and how refunds are given. One-of-a-kind or used items may have different rules; say so plainly. Payment providers and laws may require certain things, so check.
Shipping, privacy, and terms
Your shipping policy covers processing time, where you ship, costs, and what happens with lost packages. A privacy policy explains what customer information you collect and how it is used. Terms of service set general rules. Shopify offers templates; edit them to match what you actually do.
When to get professional review
Templates are a starting point, not legal advice. If you sell regulated items, collect sensitive data, or sell internationally, consider having a lawyer review. The Policies, Procedures & Employee Handbooks lesson covers writing policies generally.
A real-world example
A doll reseller writes: 'Returns accepted within 14 days if the doll arrives in the condition shown. Buyer pays return shipping unless the item was described wrongly.' She edits Shopify's privacy template to match the apps she actually uses.
Steps to take
- Decide your refund, return, and shipping rules.
- Generate Shopify's templates.
- Edit every template to match your practice.
- Add policy links to your footer.
- Review policies whenever you change how you work.
Policies check
This checklist is optional and not saved. Copy it to keep a personal note. Do not enter sensitive information.
Go deeper in related modules
Not sure what a word means? Check Business Words Made Simple.
Official guidance
Use these official sources for current rules and details. They do not replace advice for your particular business.
- Shopify Help: Refund, privacy, and terms policies (opens in a new tab)
Official steps for adding store policies.
- Shopify Help Center (opens in a new tab)
Official how-to articles for every part of the store admin.