Deposits and refunds

[Suzie_Homemaker]

I have always had the policy that refunds will not be given if you change your mind before you start. My clients can see all of my details on my website prior to visiting, so it's an open book.
What do you do if now they want their deposit money back? I've never had someone not start before, and the spot has been reserved for a month now, and is being held open longer than that.
I don't want to refund it, but it's that type of parent that might ruin my reputation if things don't go as planned. I'm so frustrated! Advice please!

I only been asked once and decline. When I first open family wanted place in 3 month time. Just about month before start, Dad knock on door, was nice but said they found somewhere closer and would it be possible for refund. I explained that no, it compensate me for holding place and had been made clear non-refundable. He accepted that and no issue.

I used to write on receipt for deposit that it for "daycare - non-refundable" but my son told me that mean it for the actual service of daycare and if they cancel before coming, they not had any care and so could claim deposit back. I now write "Deposit to hold a place for CHILD NAME to start daycare no later than START DATE - non-refundable". This make it clear the money is for holding the place not for an actual service.