The issue with deposits is a lack of trust.This is a very valid concern on both sides which I don't think there is a perfect solution for - just based on what the provider is comfortable with based on her personal experiences and what the client is comfortable with based on their personal experiences. I think reviews and reputation are paramount when deciding whether to go with a booking - regardless of deposits or information required. When you look at businesses outside of this industry who do require deposits and personally identifying information - they are businesses that just don't have time to waste on time wasting patrons anymore because they are not hurting for business. Hotels, spas, service providers who book well in advance for their services, restaurants with a reputation and can demand a deposit or credit card information. I think a lot of providers want to be recognized as a legitimate business and enforce regulations based on that. However, there is a real concern for privacy and legal repercussions to worry about on the client side, so it makes for a precarious position.I can only speak for myself when I say.. why would a regular patron of mine not be cool with providing me a deposit if he already knows I am reliable and has seen me before? That pisses me off. Also, why would someone be against me asking for a $100 amazon gift card (as an alternative if someone is uncomfortable with etransfer or paypal methods) as a show of good faith and acceptable method of deposit when there is no identifying information there, is beyond me.
If there is uncertainty, then even a little becomes a burden. Reason being, it's futile to keep paying money only to have it stolen from you.