Built for Shopify requirements for Returns and exchanges apps and Subscription apps (effective December 1, 2026)

Effective December 1, 2026, Returns and exchanges apps and Subscription apps that provide buyer-facing self-service experiences must authenticate customers using the Customer Account API.

Apps that don't meet this requirement by the deadline are at risk of losing Built for Shopify status.

What's changing

Returns and exchanges and Subscription apps with buyer-facing self-service experiences must use the Customer Account API for customer authentication. This gives buyers and merchants a single, secure sign-in across their storefront, apps, and customer accounts.

Who this affects

Your app is affected if it falls into either category and offers buyers a self-service experience (for example, managing returns, tracking exchanges, or updating a subscription).

What you need to do

Integrate the Customer Account API for customer authentication in your buyer-facing flows. Review the updated Built for Shopify requirements for full details.

Deadline

December 1, 2026.