100 Prompts to Write the Perfect Return, Exchange and Refund Policy for Your Shopify Store
Writing a return policy sounds straightforward until you're actually doing it. You need to cover your standard returns, exchanges, refund timelines, exceptions, shipping costs, seasonal rules, international customers, gift buyers and edge cases - all in language that doesn't overwhelm customers.
Most brands either write a policy that's so vague it creates disputes, or so long and legalese that customers don't read it and then argue they weren't informed.
These 100 prompts solve that. They're organized by section so you can use the whole set to build a policy from scratch, or dip into specific sections to fix what's broken. Paste them into ChatGPT, Claude or any AI tool. Swap the [BRACKETED VARIABLES] for your specifics. Every prompt is designed to produce something immediately usable - not a template you still have to write.
Before you start: Have these ready:
- Your return window (days from delivery)
- Whether you offer free returns, paid returns, or free exchanges only
- Your product categories and which ones have exceptions (hygiene items, final sale, digital, etc.)
- Your refund processing timeline
- Your exchange process (self-serve portal, email, etc.)
- Whether you serve international customers and how that works
Section 1: Foundation - Defining Your Core Policy (Prompts 1-10)
These prompts build the spine of your policy. Start here.
Prompt 1 - Write the one-paragraph summary
Write a one-paragraph return policy summary for a Shopify store called [BRAND NAME] that sells [PRODUCT CATEGORY]. We accept returns within [X] days of delivery. Returns are [free / £X / free for exchanges only]. We offer [refunds to original payment / store credit / exchanges]. Write it in plain English, no legal jargon, and in a tone that is [friendly / professional / direct]. It should be short enough to go on a product page, below the add-to-cart button.
Prompt 2 - Write the full policy page
Write a complete return, exchange and refund policy for a Shopify store called [BRAND NAME]. Product category: [CATEGORY]. Return window: [X] days from delivery. Return shipping: [free / customer pays / free for exchanges]. Refund method: [original payment method / store credit / customer's choice]. Refund processing time: [X business days]. Exchanges: [self-serve portal / email support / instant exchange]. Exceptions: [list any - final sale, hygiene items, personalized, etc.]. International returns: [accepted / not accepted / different rules]. Format it as a structured page with clear headings, short paragraphs, and no legal boilerplate unless it's genuinely necessary.
Prompt 3 - Write the policy in plain English for non-native speakers
Rewrite this return policy in plain English that is easy to understand for customers whose first language is not English. Avoid idioms, passive voice, and complex sentence structures. Keep sentences under 20 words where possible. Here is the policy: [PASTE YOUR EXISTING POLICY].
Prompt 4 - Write a branded policy with personality
Write a return policy for [BRAND NAME], a [describe brand personality - e.g. bold, irreverent, sustainable, luxury, community-driven] brand that sells [PRODUCT CATEGORY]. The policy needs to cover: [X]-day return window, free returns, exchange or refund option, [X]-day refund processing. Write it in the brand's voice - not corporate, not generic. It should feel like it was written by the brand, not by a lawyer.
Prompt 5 - Name your policy
We want to give our return policy a name that feels like a brand asset rather than fine print. Our brand is [describe brand - e.g. a sustainable outdoor clothing brand / a premium men's basics brand / a fun women's activewear brand]. Our policy is generous: [X]-day window, free returns, no questions asked. Suggest 10 names for our return policy that are memorable, on-brand, and tell customers something positive before they read a word. Include a one-sentence explanation of why each name works.
Prompt 6 - Write the policy for a high-return-risk category
Write a return policy for a Shopify store selling [HIGH-RETURN-RISK CATEGORY - e.g. women's clothing, footwear, swimwear]. The policy needs to be clear and customer-friendly while managing the following risks: sizing returns, condition disputes, hygiene exceptions for swimwear/underwear, and customers trying to return worn or washed items. Return window: [X] days. Include specific language for each risk without making the policy feel defensive or hostile.
Prompt 7 - Write a policy for a low-margin product
Write a return policy for [BRAND NAME] that sells [LOW-MARGIN PRODUCT CATEGORY - e.g. fast fashion, accessories, consumables] where free returns are not financially viable. Return window: [X] days. Return shipping is paid by the customer at [£X / actual carrier cost]. We offer store credit as the default resolution. Write the policy so it is honest about costs without making customers feel punished. Include a clear reason why (e.g. sustainability, keeping prices low) rather than just a flat "customer pays."
Prompt 8 - Define "original condition" clearly
Write a clear, specific definition of "original condition" for a return policy for a brand selling [PRODUCT CATEGORY]. Cover: what "unworn" means in practice (can customers try items on?), what "unwashed" covers, whether tags need to be attached, what counts as unacceptable condition (stains, odours, signs of wear, pet hair, etc.), and what happens if an item arrives back in unacceptable condition. Write it so there is no room for dispute. Use plain English, not legal language.
Prompt 9 - Write the policy hierarchy (standard vs. quality issues)
Write two separate return policy sections for [BRAND NAME]: Section 1: Standard returns (change of mind, sizing, didn't like it). Window: [X] days. Conditions: [your conditions]. Resolution: [refund / exchange / store credit]. Section 2: Quality or defect returns (item arrived damaged, defective, or not as described). Window: [longer window or no time limit]. Process: [your process - photos required, replacement, etc.]. Resolution: [replacement / full refund / store credit]. Write them as two distinct sections so customers immediately know which applies to their situation.
Prompt 10 - Write a policy that doubles as a conversion tool
Write a return policy for [BRAND NAME] that is designed to increase purchase conversion, not just manage returns. The policy should be prominently structured so the most reassuring points come first (generous window, free returns, no questions asked). Exceptions and conditions should come after. It will appear on the product page below the add-to-cart button and must be readable in under 20 seconds. Return window: [X] days. Resolution options: [refund / exchange / store credit]. Return shipping: [free / paid].
Section 2: Return Window and Eligibility (Prompts 11-20)
Prompt 11 - Justify a longer return window
Write a short paragraph (3-4 sentences) explaining why [BRAND NAME] offers a [X]-day return window, in a way that feels like a brand statement rather than fine print. The tone should be confident and trust-building, not defensive. Reference that we want customers to be completely sure before keeping or returning, not rushed into a decision.
Prompt 12 - Write eligibility criteria without sounding suspicious
Write the eligibility section of a return policy for [BRAND NAME]. Items must be returned within [X] days, unworn, unwashed, with tags attached. Write this so it sounds like a quality assurance measure (we need to ensure items can be restocked or donated safely) rather than a gatekeeping mechanism designed to reject returns. Tone: [brand tone].
Prompt 13 - Handle the "I tried it on once" situation
Write a return policy clause that clarifies what "unworn" means in the context of a [PRODUCT CATEGORY - e.g. clothing / footwear] brand. Specifically address: trying items on is allowed and does not count as "worn"; items are considered worn if they have been used outdoors, washed, or show signs of actual use. Make this clear and unambiguous without it reading as a list of gotchas.
Prompt 14 - Write the final sale policy
Write a clear final sale clause for [BRAND NAME]'s return policy. Final sale items are those marked as such at the time of purchase, typically items discounted at [X%] or more. These items are not eligible for return, exchange, or store credit. Write this so it is: (1) clearly flagged so customers know before they buy, not after, (2) not apologetic, and (3) honest about why (items are priced to clear and cannot be restocked). Include a suggestion for where on the product page this should be displayed.
Prompt 15 - Write the return window for seasonal or sale periods
Write an extended return window clause for [BRAND NAME] to use during [SALE PERIOD - e.g. Black Friday, Christmas, Father's Day]. Orders placed between [DATE] and [DATE] are eligible for return until [DATE]. Explain the extension clearly, note it does not apply to final sale items, and write it in a way that feels like a genuine customer benefit, not a legal carve-out.
Prompt 16 - Handle partial returns (multi-item orders)
Write a policy clause covering partial returns - where a customer returns some but not all items from a multi-item order. Cover: whether the original shipping cost is refunded on a partial return, how bundle discounts are handled if a customer returns part of a bundle, and how to calculate the refund amount. Write in plain English for a Shopify brand selling [PRODUCT CATEGORY].
Prompt 17 - Write the return window for gifted items
Write a gift return clause for [BRAND NAME]. Gifts can be returned by the recipient within [X] days of the original delivery date. The recipient does not need the original order number - they can contact [support channel] with proof of the gift (e.g. gift receipt, gift message, or order confirmation forwarded by the buyer). Refunds go back to the original payment method (the buyer). Store credit can be issued to the recipient's email instead if preferred. Write this clearly for both the gift-giver and the recipient.
Prompt 18 - Write the return window for pre-order items
Write a return policy clause for pre-order items at [BRAND NAME]. The return window starts from the actual delivery date, not the order date. This is important to state explicitly because the order may be placed weeks before delivery. Include a note that cancellations before dispatch are handled separately (and describe your cancellation policy briefly).
Prompt 19 - Handle size guide disputes
Write a return policy clause for [BRAND NAME] (a [CLOTHING/FOOTWEAR] brand) that addresses returns due to sizing. Cover: sizing returns are accepted within [X] days; customers are encouraged to use the size guide before purchasing; however, if the sizing guide was inaccurate or misleading, [BRAND NAME] will treat this as a quality issue and cover return shipping. Write this so it takes responsibility for the size guide without making every sizing return a free return.
Prompt 20 - Write the return policy for digital products or downloadable content
Write a no-return policy clause for digital products (downloadable files, access codes, digital gift cards) at [BRAND NAME]. Explain why returns are not possible (the product has already been received and cannot be "un-downloaded"), and provide a clear alternative for customers who experience a technical issue (e.g. file corruption, access problems) - those customers should contact [EMAIL/SUPPORT] within [X] days. Keep the tone helpful, not defensive.
Section 3: Exchanges (Prompts 21-35)
Prompt 21 - Write an exchange-first policy
Write the exchanges section of a return policy for [BRAND NAME] that presents exchange as the primary resolution option before refund. The language should make exchange feel easy, fast, and the obvious first choice - not a consolation prize. Exchanges are free. Size or colour swaps are processed within [X] business days via [our self-serve portal / email]. Write it so customers feel actively encouraged to exchange rather than refund.
Prompt 22 - Write the "exchange for anything in the store" clause
Write a return policy clause for [BRAND NAME] explaining that customers can return an item and exchange it for any other product in the store - not just the same item in a different size or colour. The return credit is applied as a balance toward any purchase. If the new item costs more, the customer pays the difference. If less, the balance is issued as store credit. Make this feel like a benefit, not a workaround.
Prompt 23 - Write the instant exchange policy
Write an instant exchange policy clause for [BRAND NAME]. Instant exchange means we ship the replacement item before receiving the returned item. The customer provides a payment method as a hold; if the original item is not returned within [X] days, the hold is charged. Write this so the instant benefit (getting the new item immediately) is front and centre, and the hold condition reads as standard practice rather than a threat.
Prompt 24 - Handle out-of-stock exchanges
Write a return policy clause for [BRAND NAME] addressing what happens when a customer wants to exchange for a size or colour that is out of stock. Options: (1) join the waitlist for the item - we'll send it when it is back in stock; (2) exchange for a different item; (3) receive store credit to use when the item is restocked. Make all three options feel like genuine choices rather than a failure state.
Prompt 25 - Write the exchange policy for sale items
Write a clause for [BRAND NAME] addressing exchanges on sale items (non-final-sale). A sale item can be exchanged for a different size or colour of the same product at the same sale price, while stock allows. It cannot be exchanged for a full-price item without paying the difference. Write this clearly and without making sale customers feel like second-tier buyers.
Prompt 26 - Write the exchange policy for gifted items
Write a gift exchange policy for [BRAND NAME]. Gift recipients can exchange their item for a different size or colour within [X] days of the original delivery. No order number or buyer account required - recipients can initiate via [portal / support email] with the gift receipt or order details provided by the buyer. The exchange is free. If a different product is chosen, a store credit is issued for the original value.
Prompt 27 - Write the exchange policy for personalised or custom items
Write a policy clause for [BRAND NAME] clarifying that personalised or custom-made items - including items with monogramming, custom sizing, or made-to-order products - are not eligible for exchange or return, except in cases of manufacturing defect or error on our part. If we made an error, we will replace or refund in full at no cost to the customer. Write this clearly and place the error exception prominently so it doesn't read as a blanket no.
Prompt 28 - Write the exchange process step by step
Write a step-by-step exchange process for [BRAND NAME]'s return policy page. The process has [X] steps: [describe your actual steps - e.g. visit portal, enter order number, select item, select reason, choose exchange item, print label, drop off]. Write each step in one or two plain English sentences. Format it as a numbered list. Tone: [brand tone - e.g. friendly, direct, no-nonsense].
Prompt 29 - Write the exchange policy for international customers
Write a return and exchange policy clause for international customers at [BRAND NAME]. International customers can [initiate returns / cannot initiate exchanges / can only receive store credit]. International return shipping is [paid by customer / at a flat rate of $X / covered by us for defective items only]. Refunds exclude original shipping fees. Write this so international customers know exactly what to expect before they buy.
Prompt 30 - Write the "free exchange, paid refund" policy
Write a return policy for [BRAND NAME] that offers free exchanges but charges [$X / a flat fee] for cash refunds. Frame this honestly: exchanges are free because we want to help you find the right product; if you'd prefer your money back, a small return shipping fee applies. Write it so it feels fair rather than punitive, and make sure the exchange option is presented first and most prominently.
Prompt 31 - Write the exchange escalation clause
Write a policy clause for [BRAND NAME] covering what happens if a customer exchanges an item and the replacement also doesn't work. Second exchanges are handled via [process - e.g. email to support team]. After two exchanges for the same item, the customer can receive a full refund or store credit. Write this so it doesn't feel like an escape hatch brands use to avoid refunds - the tone should be genuinely problem-solving.
Prompt 32 - Write the B2B or bulk order exchange policy
Write a return and exchange policy clause for [BRAND NAME] covering bulk or B2B orders (orders of [X] or more items, or orders above $[X]). Bulk orders are not eligible for standard self-serve returns. Contact [email] within [X] days to discuss return options. Write this as a practical boundary rather than a refusal - explain why (logistics, restocking complexity) and offer a clear contact route.
Prompt 33 - Write the exchange policy for subscription box products
Write a return and exchange policy for a Shopify subscription box brand called [BRAND NAME]. Individual items within a subscription box can be flagged as unsatisfactory within [X] days of delivery. We will credit the value of that item toward the next box or issue a partial refund for that item only. Full box returns are not accepted once opened. Write this so it manages expectations without making customers feel stuck.
Prompt 34 - Write the exchange confirmation email copy
Write the email [BRAND NAME] sends when an exchange is confirmed. Include: confirmation that the exchange has been received and processed, the new item name and expected delivery window, tracking link placeholder, and a friendly close that reinforces the brand. Keep it under 150 words. Tone: [brand tone].
Prompt 35 - Write the "why we love exchanges" policy framing
Write a short introductory paragraph for [BRAND NAME]'s returns and exchanges page that explains why we actively encourage exchanges over refunds - not because we're trying to keep customers' money, but because [reason that fits the brand - e.g. we want you to find the right fit / because returning something just to rebuy is annoying / because exchanges are faster and you don't wait for a refund then place a new order]. Write it in [brand tone] and keep it under 60 words.
Section 4: Refunds (Prompts 36-50)
Prompt 36 - Write the refund timeline clause
Write a refund timeline clause for [BRAND NAME]. Refunds are processed within [X] business days of receiving the returned item. Once processed, credit card refunds take [X] additional business days to appear (this is the bank's timeline, not ours). PayPal refunds are typically instant. Write this so customers have accurate expectations and understand that delays after we've processed the refund are outside our control.
Prompt 37 - Write the refund method clause
Write a clause explaining [BRAND NAME]'s refund method policy. Refunds are issued to the original payment method only. We cannot redirect refunds to a different card, account, or method. If a customer paid by gift card, the refund goes back to the gift card. If a customer paid part by gift card and part by credit card, the gift card portion is refunded first. Write this clearly in plain English.
Prompt 38 - Write the partial refund clause
Write a clause for [BRAND NAME] explaining when a partial refund may be issued rather than a full refund. Partial refunds apply when: (1) an item is returned in a condition that reduces its resale value (e.g. minor wear, missing tags), in which case a [%X] restocking fee applies; (2) a partial return is made on an order that qualified for free shipping (original shipping cost may be deducted). Write this so customers understand the deduction logic before they return, not after.
Prompt 39 - Write the original shipping cost clause
Write a policy clause for [BRAND NAME] on whether original shipping costs are refunded on returns. Our policy: [original shipping is / is not refunded on standard returns]. Original shipping is always refunded if the return is due to our error (wrong item, defective product). Write this in a way that is transparent about the asymmetry (we refund when it's our fault, not always when it's a change of mind) without it sounding punitive.
Prompt 40 - Write the store credit option explanation
Write a store credit policy section for [BRAND NAME]. Customers can choose store credit instead of a refund. Store credit: never expires, can be used on any product including sale items, is issued as [gift card / account credit / discount code] within [X] business days of return receipt. [Optional: customers choosing store credit receive [X%] bonus value - e.g. return $50, get $57.50 in credit.] Write this so store credit feels like a genuine upgrade over a refund, not a consolation option.
Prompt 41 - Write the refund clause for damaged items received
Write a clause for [BRAND NAME] covering refunds for items that arrived damaged or defective. Customers should contact us within [X] days of delivery with photos of the damage. We will either send a replacement at no cost or issue a full refund including original shipping. Write this so the process is clear, the resolution is fast, and the tone is apologetic without being over-the-top.
Prompt 42 - Write the "we made an error" refund clause
Write a clear clause for [BRAND NAME] covering refunds when we sent the wrong item. We will cover return shipping, send the correct item immediately, and issue a refund for any price difference if applicable. We will not ask for the wrong item to be returned if it is below [£X value] - the customer can keep or donate it. Write this as a customer-first statement that reflects well on the brand.
Prompt 43 - Write the lost return parcel clause
Write a policy clause for [BRAND NAME] on what happens when a return parcel is lost in transit before reaching us. If the customer used our prepaid label, we will investigate with the carrier and process the refund once the parcel is confirmed lost - the customer is not penalised for carrier failure. If the customer used their own label (international returns), we require proof of postage; we cannot process refunds for returns we have no evidence of being shipped. Write this fairly for both scenarios.
Prompt 44 - Write the refund for cancelled orders
Write a clause for [BRAND NAME] on refunds for orders cancelled before dispatch. Orders cancelled before [dispatch cutoff time] will be refunded in full within [X] business days. Orders cancelled after dispatch must follow the standard return process once received. Write this clearly and include how customers should contact us to cancel (channel + speed - e.g. email within 30 minutes, live chat).
Prompt 45 - Write the chargeback prevention language
Write a clause for [BRAND NAME]'s return policy that discourages chargebacks (credit card disputes) by making the return process the clear first step. Explain that chargebacks delay resolution and can result in account flags, while our return process guarantees resolution within [X] business days. Include the contact details for our returns team prominently. Write this so it's firm but not aggressive - it should feel helpful rather than threatening.
Prompt 46 - Write the BNPL refund clause
Write a refund clause for [BRAND NAME] covering customers who paid using Buy Now Pay Later services (Klarna, Afterpay, Clearpay, etc.). When a return is accepted, we will initiate the refund with our payment provider. The BNPL provider will then adjust the customer's payment schedule accordingly - this is outside our control and may take [X] business days. The customer should contact the BNPL provider if a scheduled payment falls during this window. Write this honestly.
Prompt 47 - Write the refund clause for promotional or discounted purchases
Write a clause for [BRAND NAME] covering refunds on discounted purchases. Refunds are calculated based on the actual amount paid, not the original retail price. If a customer used a discount code, the discount is not refunded - only the amount they actually paid. If the discount made an item eligible for a threshold benefit (e.g. free shipping over $50), and the return brings the order below that threshold, the threshold benefit may be reversed. Write this in plain English.
Prompt 48 - Write the refund clause for loyalty reward purchases
Write a policy clause for [BRAND NAME] covering returns on items purchased with loyalty points or store credit. If items are returned: loyalty points used will be reinstated to the customer's account. Store credit used will be returned as store credit. Cash portion of a split payment (part credit, part card) will be refunded to the card. Write this clearly so customers who earned their credit through loyalty activity don't feel like they lose it on a return.
Prompt 49 - Write the refund speed as a brand statement
Write a short brand statement (2-3 sentences) for [BRAND NAME]'s returns page about refund speed. Our target: refunds processed within [X] business days of receiving the item. Frame this as a commitment rather than a disclaimer - something that reflects brand standards, not just operational policy. Tone: [brand tone].
Prompt 50 - Write the refund FAQ section
Write a FAQ section for [BRAND NAME]'s refunds policy covering these 5 questions:
- How long does a refund take?
- Can I get a refund if I paid with store credit?
- My refund hasn't appeared - what do I do?
- I used a discount code - will I get the full price refunded?
- Can I get a refund without sending the item back? Answer each in 2-3 plain English sentences. Tone: [brand tone].
Section 5: Return Shipping (Prompts 51-60)
Prompt 51 - Write the free returns policy
Write a return shipping policy for [BRAND NAME] offering free returns. We provide a prepaid [carrier] label via [portal / email]. The label is valid for [X] days. We accept drop-off at [drop-off network - e.g. Royal Mail, USPS, DPD] locations. Write this in a way that positions free returns as a brand commitment rather than a logistics detail.
Prompt 52 - Write the paid return shipping policy without making it feel punitive
Write a return shipping policy for [BRAND NAME] where customers cover return shipping costs. Frame this honestly: [reason - e.g. to keep our product prices fair / as a sustainability measure to reduce unnecessary returns / because we're a small business and cannot absorb the cost]. The customer arranges their own shipping to [address]. We recommend using a tracked service - we cannot process refunds for returns that don't arrive. Proof of postage is required.
Prompt 53 - Write the "free exchange, paid refund" shipping policy
Write a return shipping policy where exchanges are free but cash refunds require the customer to pay [£X] for the return label, deducted from the refund. Frame it as a genuine incentive to exchange (the cost of returning for a refund is a deliberate nudge, not a penalty) and make the exchange process prominent. Tone: [brand tone].
Prompt 54 - Write the international return shipping clause
Write an international return shipping policy for [BRAND NAME]. International customers are responsible for return shipping costs. We recommend using a tracked, insured service - we cannot be responsible for items lost in international transit when shipped using an untracked method. Customs and duties costs are non-refundable. Refunds for international returns will be processed within [X] business days of receiving the item.
Prompt 55 - Write the return label instructions
Write a short, practical set of return label instructions for [BRAND NAME]'s help page. Cover: how to access the label (portal link), how to attach it (outside the parcel, covering any previous labels), where to drop it off, and what to do if the label expires before they can drop it off. Keep it under 150 words. Tone: practical, helpful, not condescending.
Prompt 56 - Write the return packaging instructions
Write return packaging instructions for [BRAND NAME] selling [PRODUCT CATEGORY]. Cover: original packaging is preferred but not required; the item must be securely packaged to prevent damage in transit; if returned in a condition damaged by inadequate packaging, a partial refund may apply. Keep this practical and specific to your product type - e.g. clothing should be folded, not crumpled; shoes should be wrapped individually if original box is unavailable.
Prompt 57 - Write the "no box required" return policy
Write a return shipping policy for [BRAND NAME] that uses a box-free return method (e.g. Happy Returns, QR code drop-off, or locker return). Explain the process: customer selects return in portal, receives a QR code, takes the item to a [drop-off location / locker], scans the code, and leaves the item. No box, no label, no tape required. Write this as a clear benefit and include how to find the nearest drop-off point.
Prompt 58 - Write the return shipping clause for heavy or oversized items
Write a return policy clause for [BRAND NAME] selling [HEAVY / OVERSIZED PRODUCT - e.g. furniture, equipment, large homeware]. Standard return shipping is not applicable due to item size. Returns are arranged via scheduled collection. Contact [support channel] within [X] days of delivery to arrange collection. Collection is [free / £X]. Items must be in original packaging for collection. Write this clearly and manage expectations around lead time for collection scheduling.
Prompt 59 - Write the sustainability framing for return shipping
Write a short policy framing paragraph for [BRAND NAME] (a sustainability-conscious brand) explaining the return shipping approach. We [charge for returns / encourage exchanges over refunds / operate a consolidation returns model] because unnecessary return journeys have a real environmental cost. We're committed to reducing that. Frame this genuinely - not greenwashing, but a real operational choice with a real rationale. [X] words maximum.
Prompt 60 - Write the return drop-off location finder instruction
Write a one-paragraph instruction for [BRAND NAME]'s returns page telling customers how to find their nearest drop-off point for returns. Include: link to [carrier] location finder, what to search for (postcode, city), what to bring (labelled parcel, optionally the QR code), and what to get in return (proof of postage receipt - keep this until the refund is processed). Practical and short.
Section 6: Exceptions and Edge Cases (Prompts 61-75)
Prompt 61 - Write the hygiene exception clause
Write a hygiene exception clause for [BRAND NAME] selling [PRODUCT CATEGORY - e.g. swimwear, lingerie, underwear, beauty products, skincare]. These items cannot be returned for hygiene reasons and are final sale unless: (1) the item arrived defective or damaged, or (2) the item was never opened/worn and the hygiene seal is intact. Write this in a way that is clear and non-apologetic - it's a standard industry practice, not an unusual restriction.
Prompt 62 - Write the personalised item exception
Write a personalised/custom item policy clause for [BRAND NAME]. Items that have been personalised (monogrammed, engraved, custom-printed, made to bespoke measurements) are not eligible for return unless there is a manufacturing defect or the personalization was applied incorrectly due to our error. Write a clause and include a note that customers should double-check all personalization details before confirming the order.
Prompt 63 - Write the hazardous or restricted item return policy
Write a return policy clause for [BRAND NAME] selling products that fall under shipping restrictions (e.g. fragrances, aerosols, batteries, e-liquids). These items cannot be returned by standard mail due to carrier restrictions on hazardous materials. Customers experiencing a quality issue with these products should [contact support / submit a photo claim] for a resolution. Write this in plain English and explain the reason without making customers feel there's no recourse.
Prompt 64 - Write the open-box return policy
Write a policy clause for [BRAND NAME] (selling [ELECTRONICS / TECH / HOMEWARE]) on returns for items that have been opened but not used. Opened items in original working condition can be returned within [X] days subject to a [%X] restocking fee. Items that have been used (powered on, connected, tested) follow the standard return policy. Clearly define "opened but not used" vs "used" for your product category.
Prompt 65 - Write the bundle return policy
Write a return policy clause for [BRAND NAME] covering bundle purchases (products sold as a set at a bundle price). Partial returns of a bundle (returning one item from a set) are [accepted / not accepted]. If accepted, the refund is calculated at the individual component price within the bundle. If not accepted, customers must return the full bundle for a full refund. Write both scenarios and choose the one that applies, or write it as a conditional clause.
Prompt 66 - Write the subscription product return policy
Write a return policy for [BRAND NAME]'s subscription products. Customers can cancel a subscription before the next billing date without penalty. Items from a dispatched subscription cycle can be returned within [X] days under the standard return policy. Past subscription payments are non-refundable unless an item was defective. Write this clearly so customers understand what they can and cannot recover financially when cancelling a subscription.
Prompt 67 - Write the marketplace purchase exception
Write a policy clause for [BRAND NAME] clarifying that the return policy on [brand website] applies to purchases made directly from [website URL] only. Items purchased through third-party marketplaces (Amazon, eBay, department stores, retail partners) are subject to that platform's or retailer's return policy. We cannot process returns for marketplace purchases. Write this without making it sound like a dodge - include a link or direction to where customers should go instead.
Prompt 68 - Write the return policy for items purchased during a pop-up or event
Write a return policy clause for [BRAND NAME] covering purchases made at a pop-up shop, market, or live event. Items purchased at events can be returned within [X] days of purchase with proof of purchase (receipt, bank statement showing the transaction). [Returns accepted in-store at our next event / by post to our returns address]. Write this so event customers don't feel like they have no recourse, but also manage the logistical reality of event-based returns.
Prompt 69 - Write the warranty vs return policy distinction
Write a clause for [BRAND NAME] distinguishing between the standard return policy and the product warranty. Standard return policy: [X] days for change of mind, sizing, etc. Product warranty: [X] months/years covering manufacturing defects and premature wear. Under warranty, we will [repair / replace / refund] at our discretion. Neither policy covers damage from misuse, accidents, or normal wear and tear. Write this so customers know exactly which policy applies to their situation.
Prompt 70 - Write the return policy for items bought with gift cards
Write a policy clause for [BRAND NAME] covering returns on items purchased with a gift card. Refunds for items bought with gift cards will be credited back to a gift card (same or new). If the original gift card has been fully spent, a new gift card will be issued. Cash refunds are not available for gift card purchases. Write this in a way that is clear and doesn't feel punitive - frame the gift card credit as equivalent to a cash refund in practice.
Prompt 71 - Write the return policy for items received as part of a promotion
Write a clause for [BRAND NAME] covering returns on items received as part of a promotion (e.g. a "buy one get one free" or "free gift with purchase" offer). If the qualifying paid item is returned, the promotional free item must also be returned (or its value will be deducted from the refund). If only the promotional free item needs to be returned, [policy - e.g. store credit only]. Write this clearly so customers understand the linked nature of promotional items.
Prompt 72 - Write the return fraud prevention clause
Write a return policy clause for [BRAND NAME] addressing return fraud and policy abuse, without making the 99% of legitimate customers feel accused. The clause should note that we reserve the right to decline returns from customers with an unusually high return history or returns that show signs of fraud (e.g. returning used items as new, returning empty boxes). Write this at the end of the policy, after all the customer-friendly terms, and keep the tone matter-of-fact rather than accusatory.
Prompt 73 - Write the bracketing/wardrobing policy
Write a policy clause for [BRAND NAME] (a fashion/apparel brand) addressing the practice of bracketing - buying multiple sizes with the intent to return all but one. Our policy: this is permitted within our standard return window and conditions. However, if a customer consistently brackets across multiple orders, we reserve the right to limit return eligibility on future orders. Write this in a tone that acknowledges the practice as normal shopping behaviour while setting a clear boundary for abuse.
Prompt 74 - Write the "we cannot accept this return" communication template
Write an email template for [BRAND NAME] to send when a return is rejected (item returned in unacceptable condition, outside the return window, or exempt from returns). The email should: state clearly that the return cannot be accepted and why, explain what will happen to the item (returned to the customer / held for [X] days / donated), offer an alternative if one exists, and close without being combative or apologetic. Tone: firm but professional.
Prompt 75 - Write the edge case catch-all clause
Write a catch-all clause for [BRAND NAME]'s return policy that covers situations not explicitly addressed elsewhere. The clause should say: if your situation isn't covered by the above, contact us at [email/channel] and we'll do our best to find a fair resolution. We review edge cases on their merits, not just against the policy letter. Write this in a tone that signals genuine flexibility rather than legal hedging.
Section 7: Specific Store Types and Categories (Prompts 76-88)
Prompt 76 - Write a return policy for a fashion and apparel brand
Write a complete return policy for [BRAND NAME], a [women's / men's / unisex] fashion brand on Shopify. Category: clothing and accessories. Key considerations: sizing returns are the most common issue; hygiene exceptions apply to underwear and swimwear; items discounted at [X%+] are final sale. Return window: [X] days. Exchanges free. Refunds processed in [X] days. Tone: [brand tone].
Prompt 77 - Write a return policy for a footwear brand
Write a return policy for [BRAND NAME], a footwear brand on Shopify. Key considerations: customers need to try shoes to know if they fit; "tried on indoors" does not count as worn; shoes worn outdoors are not eligible for standard return (only warranty claims). Return window: [X] days. Exchanges: free. Include language that explicitly allows indoor trial use.
Prompt 78 - Write a return policy for a beauty and skincare brand
Write a return policy for [BRAND NAME], a beauty and skincare brand on Shopify. Opened products: [returnable within X days if gently used / non-returnable for hygiene reasons]. Unopened products: returnable within [X] days. Reaction or sensitivity issues: contact [support] with details - we may offer a replacement or refund on a case-by-case basis. Write this in a way that doesn't make customers feel stuck with a product that caused a skin reaction.
Prompt 79 - Write a return policy for a homeware or furniture brand
Write a return policy for [BRAND NAME], a homeware brand on Shopify selling [PRODUCT TYPE]. Large items are returned via scheduled collection (contact us within [X] days). Small items follow standard return policy. Items must be in original condition and, where possible, original packaging. Damage to items that occurs during the customer's trial period (scratches, stains) may result in a partial refund. Write this clearly for a higher-consideration purchase category.
Prompt 80 - Write a return policy for a pet products brand
Write a return policy for [BRAND NAME], a Shopify brand selling [PET PRODUCTS - e.g. dog accessories, pet food, toys]. Consumable products (food, treats, supplements) are non-returnable once opened unless there is a quality defect. Non-consumable products (beds, leads, toys) can be returned within [X] days in original, unused condition. Write a clause addressing the specific edge case of a product that caused a reaction in a pet - what the customer should do and what we will offer.
Prompt 81 - Write a return policy for a supplements or health brand
Write a return policy for [BRAND NAME], a health and supplements brand on Shopify. Opened consumable products: non-returnable once opened except in cases of defect, damage, or adverse reaction (contact us with details within [X] days). Unopened products: returnable within [X] days. Subscription cancellations: cancel anytime before the next billing date. Write this in a way that's honest about the hygiene/safety reasons for not accepting opened returns.
Prompt 82 - Write a return policy for a luxury or premium brand
Write a return policy for [BRAND NAME], a luxury Shopify brand selling [PRODUCT CATEGORY]. The tone must reflect the premium positioning - no defensive language, no excessive conditions. Return window: [X] days. White-glove collection service available for larger items. Returns are processed within [X] business days. All returns are inspected to ensure authenticity. Write it so the policy itself feels like a luxury experience.
Prompt 83 - Write a return policy for a children's clothing brand
Write a return policy for [BRAND NAME], a children's clothing brand on Shopify. Key considerations: items are gifted frequently; sizing is uncertain (children grow quickly); customers may need to try before committing. Return window: [X] days. Exchanges encouraged for size swaps. Hygiene exceptions: swimwear and underwear. Write in a tone that is warm and parent-friendly.
Prompt 84 - Write a return policy for a sports and activewear brand
Write a return policy for [BRAND NAME], a sports and activewear Shopify brand. Key considerations: customers may want to test fit in movement; "tried on" is different from "worked out in." Define clearly that items worn for exercise (washed, sweat-stained, odour-present) are not eligible for standard return, but trying on in a changing room scenario is fine. Return window: [X] days. Exchanges free. Tone: [brand tone].
Prompt 85 - Write a return policy for an electronics or tech accessories brand
Write a return policy for [BRAND NAME], a Shopify electronics or tech accessories brand. Cover: unopened items (full refund within [X] days), opened but unused items ([X]% restocking fee or exchange only), defective items (warranty claim process with [X]-day response SLA), items incompatible with the customer's device (exchange or store credit, not a full refund unless description was inaccurate). Write this in plain English with clear distinctions between scenarios.
Prompt 86 - Write a return policy for a sustainable or eco brand
Write a return policy for [BRAND NAME], an eco-conscious Shopify brand. Integrate sustainability into the return policy language genuinely: we encourage exchanges over returns to reduce shipping emissions; items returned in good condition are either resold, donated, or responsibly recycled (never landfilled); we'll repair defective products rather than replace them where possible. Write this as a policy that reflects genuine values, not greenwashing.
Prompt 87 - Write a return policy for a D2C food or beverage brand
Write a return policy for [BRAND NAME], a D2C food or beverage Shopify brand. Consumable products: non-returnable once opened for food safety reasons. Unopened, undamaged products: can be returned within [X] days if unopened and within best-before date. If a product arrives damaged or in an unacceptable condition, contact us within [X] days with photos. We will resend or refund. Write this in a way that's safe and honest without making customers feel there's no recourse for a bad product.
Prompt 88 - Write a return policy for a small or independent brand
Write a return policy for [BRAND NAME], a small independent Shopify brand. The tone should reflect a human, non-corporate approach: returns are handled personally, we care about getting it right, and we'd rather have a happy customer than a disputed transaction. Return window: [X] days. Process: email [email] with order number and reason. We'll respond within [X] hours. Write this so it sounds like a real person rather than a legal document.
Section 8: Display, Language and Positioning (Prompts 89-100)
Prompt 89 - Write the 10-word version
Write the return policy for [BRAND NAME] in exactly 10 words or fewer. It should be accurate, honest, and reassuring. This will go in the header of the website or on product images. Example format: "30-day returns, free exchanges, no questions asked." Write 5 variations.
Prompt 90 - Write the product page micro-copy
Write 5 variations of return policy micro-copy for [BRAND NAME]'s product pages. Each should be under 20 words, appear directly below the add-to-cart button, and cover the key reassurance: window length, cost, and resolution type. Write in [brand tone]. Format each as a single line.
Prompt 91 - Write the cart page reassurance copy
Write the return policy reassurance text for [BRAND NAME]'s cart page. This appears below the checkout button. Maximum 25 words. It should address the most common purchase hesitation at cart stage: "what if it doesn't fit / work / look right when it arrives?" Write 3 variations.
Prompt 92 - Write the checkout page trust signal
Write a trust signal for [BRAND NAME]'s checkout page relating to the return policy. This is a single line, displayed near the payment buttons. Maximum 15 words. It should reduce final-step anxiety about committing to the purchase. Write 5 variations.
Prompt 93 - Write the order confirmation email return policy reminder
Write the return policy reminder section for [BRAND NAME]'s order confirmation email. It should be brief (3-4 sentences), tell the customer what to do if they need to return, and frame the return policy as a benefit of shopping with us, not a process they hope they never need. Tone: [brand tone].
Prompt 94 - Rewrite a defensive policy in a customer-friendly tone
Rewrite the following return policy section in a tone that is customer-friendly, clear, and reflects a brand that wants to take care of its customers. Remove passive voice, legalese, and defensive framing. Keep all the substance - just change the tone and language. Here is the section to rewrite: [PASTE YOUR EXISTING POLICY SECTION].
Prompt 95 - Write the returns page SEO title and meta description
Write an SEO-optimised title tag and meta description for [BRAND NAME]'s returns and exchanges policy page. The page URL is [URL]. Title tag: under 60 characters, include the brand name and a key reassurance (e.g. "free returns," "30-day window"). Meta description: under 155 characters, answer the question customers Google before they decide whether to buy from a new brand. Target keyword: "[brand name] return policy."
Prompt 96 - Write the returns policy FAQ schema
Write 5 FAQs for [BRAND NAME]'s return policy page in a format suitable for FAQ schema markup. Each question should be something a customer would actually Google. Each answer should be 2-3 sentences, complete, and accurate. The questions should cover: return window, cost of returns, how to start a return, refund timeline, and exchange options.
Prompt 97 - Translate the policy for a second market
Adapt [BRAND NAME]'s return policy for customers in [COUNTRY/REGION]. Consider: different consumer law requirements in that region, different expectations around return windows (e.g. UK consumer law provides a statutory 14-day cooling-off period for online purchases), different shipping carrier options, and different payment methods that affect refund routing. Write a market-specific addendum that sits below the main policy, clearly labelled "[COUNTRY] customers."
Prompt 98 - Write the returns policy for a Shopify Plus brand at scale
Write a return policy for [BRAND NAME], a high-volume Shopify Plus brand processing [X]+ returns per month. The policy must: scale without creating excessive manual review, clearly define what is auto-approved vs what requires manual review, set expectations for automated vs human response times, and handle the full range of return scenarios (standard return, defect, exchange, gift, international). Tone: professional, efficient, customer-respecting.
Prompt 99 - Audit your existing policy and identify gaps
Audit the following return policy for [BRAND NAME] and identify: (1) any ambiguous language that could cause disputes, (2) any scenarios that are not covered (gaps), (3) any language that is unnecessarily defensive or off-putting to customers, (4) any clauses that are inconsistent with each other, and (5) the 3 highest-priority fixes. Here is the policy: [PASTE YOUR EXISTING POLICY].
Prompt 100 - Write the final brand-quality check
Read the following return policy for [BRAND NAME] as if you are a first-time customer who has never heard of the brand. You are considering buying a [product] and you want to know if the returns process is easy and trustworthy enough to take the risk. Tell me: (1) does this policy make you feel confident buying from this brand? (2) is there anything that makes you hesitate? (3) what would you change to make it more reassuring? Then rewrite any sections that scored poorly. Here is the policy: [PASTE YOUR POLICY].
How to Use This Set
You don't need all 100. Here's how to approach it depending on where you are:
Starting from scratch: Run Prompts 2, 8, 9, and 36 first. That gives you the core policy structure, condition definitions, tiered quality/standard policy, and refund timeline. Add category-specific prompts from Section 7. Then run Prompt 99 on the output to audit it.
Fixing an existing policy: Run Prompt 99 first (the audit). It will tell you which sections need work. Then target the specific prompts in Sections 2-6 that address those gaps.
Preparing for a sale or seasonal peak: Run Prompts 15, 17, and 50 specifically. These cover extended windows, gift return flows, and refund FAQs - the three most-asked questions after any major sale.
Improving conversion from the policy page: Run Prompts 89-95. These are the display and micro-copy prompts - the bits that appear on product pages, at cart, and at checkout, where the policy actually does conversion work.
Getting a second opinion on your policy: Run Prompt 100. It's the clearest signal you'll get on whether your policy reads as customer-first or brand-first.
To optimize your returns flow, install Return Prime for free.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Do I actually need a written return policy on my Shopify store?
Yes. Customers check return policies before they buy, not after. A clearly written policy on your product page reduces purchase hesitation, prevents misunderstandings that escalate into chargebacks, and signals that you're a brand worth trusting. Shopify stores without a visible return policy consistently see higher cart abandonment at the point where customers are weighing whether to commit.
Q2. What's the biggest mistake Shopify brands make when writing a return policy?
Writing it for the worst-case customer instead of the average one. Most return policies read like a list of restrictions designed to catch people out and customers feel that. The result is a policy that reads defensively, erodes trust before a purchase is made, and still doesn't prevent disputes because the language is vague enough to argue with. A good return policy is specific about conditions, generous where it can afford to be, and written in the same tone as the rest of your brand.
Q3. Should a Shopify return policy offer refunds, exchanges or store credit ?
All three serve different customers, and the best policies offer a choice. That said, exchanges are the highest-value resolution for the brand converting one refund into an exchange generates a total revenue swing of approximately $360 over two years versus a $50 loss on the refund. Store credit keeps revenue inside your ecosystem and can be sweetened with a small bonus to make it feel like an upgrade. A refund is the right resolution when the product genuinely didn't meet expectations and no alternative exists. Structuring your policy to present exchange first, store credit second, and refund as the fallback is both customer-friendly and commercially sound.
Q4. How long should a Shopify return window be?
The standard ecommerce return window is 30 days, but the right answer depends on your product category and how your customers shop. Fashion and footwear brands benefit from longer windows ie. 45 to 60 days, because sizing confidence takes time and a generous window is a known conversion lever. High-consideration purchases like homeware or electronics often warrant 30 days with a separate warranty period for defects. The return window is one of the most visible signals of how much a brand trusts its customers, and shortening it to reduce returns typically backfires by reducing new purchases too.
Q5. Can I use the same return policy prompts for different Shopify store categories?
The core structure applies across categories, but the specific clauses need to reflect your product type. A beauty brand needs hygiene exception language for opened products. A footwear brand needs to explicitly allow indoor trial use without classifying it as worn. A fashion brand needs to address sizing returns and bracketing. A supplements brand needs to handle consumable products differently from packaging. The 100 prompts in this guide are organised so you can use the foundation prompts (Section 1) for any store, then pull the category-specific prompts from Section 7 to handle the edge cases your product type actually generates.
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