Shopify how-to

How to Close Your Shopify Store

Closing a Shopify store is quick, but there are a few things to do first so you are not billed for apps, lose your domain, or lose your customer data.

Part of our guide: How to set up a Shopify store

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Just need a break? Pausing is often smarter than closing. It keeps your store and data for a lower monthly fee. See Shopify's Pause and Build plan.

Before you close: checklist

  1. Export your data

    Export products, customers and orders as CSV files from each section of the admin. You can't get them back once the store is gone.

  2. Cancel third-party apps

    Uninstall paid apps so they stop billing. Some apps bill separately and need cancelling in the app itself.

  3. Transfer or keep your domain

    If you bought your domain through Shopify, transfer it to another registrar first, or you may lose it.

  4. Settle outstanding bills

    Check Settings → Billing for any unpaid charges.

How to close your Shopify store

  1. Go to Settings → Plan

    Log in as the store owner and open Settings → Plan.

  2. Deactivate store

    Click Deactivate store, choose a reason, and confirm with your password.

  3. Check your email

    Shopify sends a confirmation. Keep it for your records.

Close vs pause: which should you choose?

Close (deactivate)Pause and Build
Monthly costNoneReduced fee
StorefrontOfflineVisible but checkout disabled
Admin accessNoYes, keep editing
Best forLeaving Shopify for goodSeasonal breaks, rebuilding, time off

Moving to another platform? Compare your options in Shopify alternatives before you go.

Frequently asked questions

Can I reopen a closed Shopify store?

In many cases you can reactivate a closed store by logging back in and choosing a plan, as long as Shopify still holds the store data. Don't rely on this, and export your data first.

Will Shopify refund my subscription if I close my store?

Shopify generally doesn't refund unused subscription time. Check your billing cycle and close the store near the end of it.

Do I have to pay outstanding bills before closing?

Yes. Any outstanding charges must be paid before Shopify lets you deactivate the store.

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About the author: The BOSP Editorial Team

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