Dealing with Paddle Rejections: A Comprehensive Guide

Hi, I'm Alex, and welcome back to the Boathouse Paddle Series, where we dive into everything you need to know about Paddle. Today, we're tackling a topic that might be familiar to many of you: Paddle rejection. It's never fun to get that dreaded email stating your domain hasn't been approved. But don't worry, even I've received these emails multiple times—and eventually got all my products verified.

In this blog post, we'll walk through everything you need to understand about Paddle rejections and how to overcome them.

Why Does Paddle Rejection Happen?

Keeping the Platform Safe

At its core, Paddle's primary goal in the approval process is to keep bad actors off the platform. This policy ensures a safe and trustworthy environment. After all, once you're selling via Paddle, you don't want harmful entities sharing the platform with you.

Two Main Rejection Reasons

There are typically two categories for why your application might be rejected:

1. Not under the Acceptable Use Policy: This includes physical products, consulting services, gambling, and other restricted industries. If your business falls under these categories, there's no point in arguing with Paddle—they simply don't allow it.
2. Uncertainty about Your Business or Product: If the product seems high-risk or Paddle is unsure about your business model, you might get flagged.

Acceptable vs. Unacceptable Services

While physical products and gambling services are out of the question, there are exceptions (sort of). For example, you can offer consulting services as part of a support package for a SaaS product. However, if consulting is your main business, you need to clearly explain to Paddle that your digital products can be sold through their platform while the consulting services cannot.

Navigating Through Uncertainty

Specificity is Key

If Paddle is unsure about your application, they'll likely ask for more details about your product. Here's what to do:

• Provide Detailed Explanations: Explain what your product does and give as much detail as possible, especially about high-risk items. For instance, if your product connects to financial providers, elaborate on how it does so.
• Paddle API: If you're using Paddle's API, explain how you're integrating it into your service. They want to ensure you're not using Paddle as a marketplace.

Required Information

Paddle might ask for a link to your pricing page if it's unclear what you're offering. They need to understand the specific product variations you have. Make sure your website is ready with all the necessary information:

1. Refund Policy
2. Terms and Services
3. Privacy Policy

If you haven't prepared your website yet, make sure to check out our video on preparing your website for Paddle's approval process.

Just keep answering their questions and explaining your product well. Sooner or later, you'll be a verified Paddle seller, as long as you're an acceptable Paddle seller.

Step-by-Step Process to Handle Rejections

1. Understanding the Email

When you receive a rejection email, it's crucial to understand the exact reason for it. Look out for specific terms that might help you identify why your product got flagged.

2. Responding Effectively

Your response should be clear and detailed. Address the specific concerns mentioned in the email. The more information you provide, the better your chances of getting approved.

3. Be Patient and Persistent

The approval process might require multiple rounds of clarifications. Don't get discouraged. As long as your product meets Paddle's acceptable use policy, you'll get there eventually.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring the Acceptable Use Policy: Ensure your product or service strictly aligns with Paddle's guidelines.
• Incomplete Information: Always provide comprehensive details about your product.
• Impatience: Be prepared for a few back-and-forths before getting that coveted approval.

Final Thoughts

Dealing with Paddle rejections can be frustrating, but understanding the process can significantly ease the journey. Remember, the key is clear communication and adherence to Paddle's policies. Keep at it, and soon enough, you'll be a verified Paddle seller.

Thanks for reading and happy selling!