Book a time

Booking takes a few steps on the business's own website. Each business can name the steps its own way, so the wording you see may differ a little.

The steps

1. Choose a service. If the business has more than one place or person, you choose those too. The step may be called "Choose a person" or use the business's own word, such as stylist.

2. A few questions. Some services ask something first. Answer what is asked.

3. Choose a day and time. Days with openings are outlined. Times show in the business's time zone.

4. Review. Check the summary. Choose Edit next to anything to change it.

5. Book. The last button says what happens. It reads Book, Send request, or names what you pay, such as Pay and the amount followed by deposit and book.

Sign in

You sign in before the booking is made, with a code we email you; your choices are kept. See One sign-in for every business.

Your details

The review asks for your first name, last name, phone and email. All four are required for an online booking. The business already has some, so you may only see a field or two. Your email is shown as it is, with "Not you? Sign out" if it's the wrong account.

If the business takes a payment

You see Pay to hold this time, and the time is held for you "until" a time. See Deposits, paying later and refunds. If the business only wants a card on file, you see Save a card to hold this time, and nothing is charged now.

If someone gets there first

You see the time followed by "was just booked." Choose another time.

When it's done

You see Booked, or Request sent if the business has to say yes first. A request says "Nothing is booked until it's confirmed." We email you either way, and the email has a link to move or cancel. See Move or cancel your booking.