“OMG!!! My account went on deactivation warning! What did I do?? What do I have to do to make this right?”

Does this sound familiar? Probably…

We have all been there!!! So, here is some advice:

1. Don’t Panic! Remain calm! Most likely the issue is minor, and it will be fixed.

2. First, know that your account will not be deactivated immediately. Amazon provides ample time to resolve the issue.

3. Check your emails and alerts for a detailed explanation of why your account was flagged. Read the message thoroughly and then review the steps on what will need to be done to fix the issue.

4. Many times, Amazon flags accounts for simple legal/regulatory documentation that must be submitted on an annual basis – such as the INFORM Act. If so, submit/update the information asap and the problem is resolved and your deactivation warning will be removed.

5. Another common warning is if you drop below expected basic seller metrics (ex: order cancellations or late shipments). In these cases, make note of the problem and rectify internally. The warning will go away if you meet expectations within a few weeks. If you believe the metrics are incorrect – submit a case.

6. If the warning is specific to your business, compliance or other unique problem, call Account Health Support. Do not wait. Do not submit a case by email. Call support. A live technician will explain the issue and help you better understand and guide you through how to resolve the problem. When you call, be prepared to Provide them with a case ID or other details at the ready.

7. If documentation or other data is needed for submission, ask to have the deactivation warning period extended so you can have time to gather all the information required. Do not feel pressured to resolve immediately and when requested extra time, it will be granted.

8. Immediately after your support call, DO respond to the open case with a message that you are attentively addressing the matter. Document everything in writing and keep a file/log.

9. If you have an account manager, alert him/her immediately via email.

10. If you don’t understand the problem, research Amazon Policies. The details will be there. If you need additional help – reach out to Seller Forums or other third parties who are knowledgeable about your issue. If you use AI – ask your AI assistant. You can also start with the Account Health page in Seller Central or the Account Health FAQ.

11. Once you can address the issue, submit everything in writing and then call support to validate that everything was received.

12. At this juncture, your issue will be assessed by Amazon’s Account Health team and you must wait for resolution.

13. If the response is not satisfactory, re-open the case and follow the above steps. Though this is not ideal it must be done. Amazon will work with you for a positive resolution.

14. Amazon does not want to shut you down but if this does happen, yes, it is awful and you must continue to work with Amazon’s team to find a resolution. Do NOT open another storefront or try other alternative ways to avoid the situation. Amazon will figure this out and will hurt you in the long run.

15. If the situation is dire, you may need legal or other external assistance. There may be no other way. But this is the extreme example and most likely won’t happen.

In summary: stay calm, communicate with Amazon's team, follow all instructions, and cooperate. Has anyone else dealt with a deactivation warning that turned out to be a simple fix? Drop your experience below