I require a 2 week deposit when a family signs up....this is usually a few months before their starting date. This deposit is TOTALLY NON REFUNDABLE AND DOES NOT GO TOWARDS ANY DAYCARE WHATSOEVER!...This deposit is to know that the family is SERIOUS...AND ALSO TO COVER A LITTLE BIT OF THE LOSS I INCUR DURING THOSE MONTHS...., IE....THE SPOT MIGHT HAVE BEEN OPEN LONG BEFORE THEIR STARTING DATE....AS A RESULT....I WILL NEVER OWE ANYONE MONIES WHEN THEY LEAVE....JUST THE WAY I DO IT....