Navigating deposit requirements can be challenging for merchants opening TikTok Shops. What types of deposits exist? How should they be paid? What are the latest deposit standards? And how can merchants retrieve their deposits when closing shops? This guide provides detailed operational instructions for managing TikTok Shop deposits.
Understanding TikTok Shop Deposits: The Foundation of Secure Transactions
TikTok Shop deposits represent funds merchants pay to the platform to ensure compliant operations and protect consumer rights. These deposits serve as a "credit guarantee" that encourages merchants to follow platform rules while delivering quality products and services. There are three primary deposit types: base deposits, floating deposits, and activity deposits.
Base Deposits: The Entry Requirement
The base deposit is mandatory when opening a TikTok Shop, with amounts varying by shop type and product category. Merchants selling products across multiple categories must pay according to the highest deposit standard among their categories.
Floating Deposits: The Performance-Based Adjustment
Floating deposits fluctuate according to a shop's sales performance, specifically tracking 30-day online payment order volumes. The platform automatically calculates required adjustments based on sales figures.
For example: A merchant paying a 2,000 yuan base deposit would need to supplement an additional 1,000 yuan if their 30-day sales reach 80,000 yuan and the system calculates a 3,000 yuan floating deposit requirement.
Activity Deposits: Participation Requirements for Promotions
Activity deposits apply when merchants participate in TikTok Shop marketing campaigns, ensuring compliance during promotional periods. These deposits only apply during active campaign participation.
Important Notice:
Shops with insufficient deposit balances will face frozen payment accounts and withdrawal restrictions until full payment is made.
Deposit Payment Procedures
For New Merchants:
During the sixth step of shop registration, the system will prompt deposit payment. Simply select "Pay Now" and complete the transaction as directed.
For Existing Merchants:
To supplement deposits:
- Access the TikTok Shop backend
- Navigate to "Funds" management
- Select "Shop Deposit"
- Choose "Top Up" and complete payment
Deposit Refund Procedures
Refunds are available in partial or full amounts under specific conditions.
Partial Refunds:
Applicable when deposit requirements decrease due to category adjustments or platform policy changes. Key considerations:
- Confirm actual payments exceed current requirements
- Verify no penalty deductions exist
- Note monthly refund limits (typically once per month)
Refund process:
- Access the "Assets" management page
- Select "Shop Deposit"
- Choose "Refund" and submit request
Processing typically requires 1-3 business days. Individual merchants may receive refunds to personal or business accounts, while corporate merchants only qualify for business account refunds.
Full Refunds:
Available only after complete shop closure:
- Submit shop closure request
- Await platform approval
- Complete final account settlement (including penalty deductions if applicable)
- Receive remaining balance via registered bank account
Frequently Asked Questions
Why would deposits be frozen?
Insufficient balances trigger payment account freezes until requirements are met.
Can deposits offset product payments?
No, deposits exclusively secure transactions and consumer protections.
Do deposit standards change?
Yes, TikTok Shop periodically adjusts requirements based on market conditions.
How to check deposit balances?
View current balances via "Funds" → "Shop Deposit" in the backend.