Deposit or non-refundable down payment: what am I paying?

In France, tattoo artists commonly ask for one of two types of upfront payment, and they're not the same thing legally: what's known as "arrhes" (a non-refundable down payment) is not refundable if you cancel, while a standard deposit ("acompte") is. Which one applies to you depends entirely on what your artist has chosen, according to their own terms.

The difference between the two

These are two distinct arrangements, both provided for under French law, and each professional chooses which one they apply to their business.

• A non-refundable down payment ("arrhes"): if you cancel your appointment, the amount stays with the artist regardless of the reason, unless they choose to make an exception. In return, if the artist is the one who cancels, they generally have to pay you back double.
• A standard deposit ("acompte"): this is a first payment toward the total price of the service. If you cancel, it may be refundable, in full or in part depending on the notice you give.

Either way, the amount you've paid is deducted from the final price of your service on the day of your appointment: you never pay it twice.

Why it matters to know which one you're paying

The term used changes what actually happens if you need to cancel or reschedule. Many people say "deposit" out of habit, even when what they've actually paid is a non-refundable down payment. That's why it's worth checking the exact term and conditions stated by your artist rather than relying on the word used in conversation.

How to find out what you're paying

The most reliable way is to check directly with your artist, or reread the email or message you received when the payment was requested: the terms are usually stated there. Don't hesitate to ask before you pay if this matters to you, especially if you're not yet fully certain of your date.

In short

Whether you're paying a non-refundable down payment or a standard deposit, the amount confirms your appointment and is deducted from the final price. The difference only comes into play if you cancel, based on your artist's own terms. See Is my deposit refundable if I cancel? to go further on refunds.