How to refund a guest’s security deposit

Houfy does not collect nor distribute any funds in any way to and from guests. The host is responsible for collecting and refunding damage deposits.

Summary

You can return a guest’s security (damage) deposit from Houfy or directly in your payment processor (Stripe or Square). You may refund the full amount or part of it. Houfy doesn’t hold your money—refunds are between you and your guest.

Who this is for

Hosts who collected a security (damage) deposit and need to return some or all of it.

Before you start (optional)

• Make sure you can sign in to Houfy.
• If you use Stripe or Square, have your login ready.
• Decide how much you will refund.

Steps

1. Log in to your Houfy host account.
2. Open the Menu.
3. Select messages.
4. Find the guest’s conversation for the reservation you want to refund.
5. Click Details in that conversation.
6. Scroll to Security deposit.
7. Click Refund.
8. Enter the refund amount (full or partial).
9. Confirm the Refund.

FAQs

• Can I refund a partial amount?
  Yes. Enter any amount up to the deposit you received.
• Are there refund fees?
  Stripe/Square do not charge an extra fee to issue a refund, but the original processing fees are not returned to you.
• Should I refund in Houfy or in Stripe/Square?
  Either is fine. Both send the refund through your processor. Choose the one you find easier.
• What if I collected the deposit by cash or bank transfer?
  Return the money the same way you collected it, and keep a receipt for your records.
• What if I need to keep part of the deposit for damages?
  Enter a partial refund. Share a short note with the guest explaining what you kept and why.
• How long do refunds take?
  Banks usually show the refund within 5–10 business days.
• Can I refund more than the deposit?
  No. You can only refund up to the amount you received.

Last updated: 3 November 2025