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Write Simple Business Policies With AI

Clear policies prevent arguments. AI can produce plain-language drafts that you then adjust and have checked where the stakes are high.

Step by step

  1. List the situations. Returns, cancellations, no-shows, late payments, deposits.
  2. Decide each rule. Time limits, fees, exceptions.
  3. Ask for plain wording. Short sentences, a friendly tone.
  4. Check local rules. Some places limit fees or require notices.
  5. Display it. On your website, receipts or booking page.

What to expect

Expect plain-language drafts with headings such as cancellations, payments and refunds, which you can paste into a handout or website.

Mistakes to avoid

Do not copy another business's policy without checking that it fits you and your state. Avoid fees you are unwilling to enforce. Do not make policies so long that nobody reads them.

A good next step

Show your draft to a mentor at a small business development center or an attorney, then post the final version.

A prompt you can copy

Type this into ChatGPT, Claude or Gemini

Write a one-page policy for a small [business] covering cancellations with 24 hours notice, a $25 late fee for payments over 10 days overdue, and how refunds work. Use friendly, plain language.

Good to know. For anything involving contracts, deposits or liability, pay for a short review by a local attorney or SCORE mentor.

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Common questions

Do I need a lawyer?

For serious contracts, yes. For simple policy wording, a review is often enough.

Will customers read it?

Keep it short and put the key points at checkout.

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