How to use the lead return request template
- Check your agreement first. It sets which returnReturnA buyer's request for credit on a lead that fails agreed standards, such as a disconnected number, a duplicate or a lead outside the filters. Glossary reasons count and how many days you have to ask.
- Fill in one sheet per lead: the lead ID exactly as the seller sent it, the date you received the lead and the date of your request.
- Tick one return reason. If your agreement names a reason that is not listed, write it on the "Other reason in our agreement" line.
- Tick the evidence you are attaching and describe what happened in a sentence or two, for example the times you called and what you heard.
- Send it to the seller by the method your agreement names, and record the request in your lead tracking spreadsheet.
Keep a copy of every request you send, with the evidence attached. If a seller asks a question or declines a request, you can check what was sent and when without searching through email.
The bottom section is for the seller. They mark the request accepted, declined or in need of more information, and note any credit or replacement.
Lead return request form
1. Parties
2. Lead
3. Return reason
Tick one. Your agreement with the seller sets which reasons apply and the time allowed to ask.
- Not checked: Invalid or disconnected phone number
- Not checked: Duplicate lead
- Not checked: Outside the agreed area
- Not checked: Does not match the agreed filters
- Not checked: Wrong vertical or sub-type
- Not checked: Consumer denies submitting it
- Not checked: Fake or test details
4. Evidence
- Not checked: Call or dial log
- Not checked: Screenshot
- Not checked: ID and date of the earlier matching lead
- Not checked: Notes from the contact attempt
- Not checked: Other:
5. Seller response
- Not checked: Accepted
- Not checked: Declined
- Not checked: More information needed
About the return reason categories
The template lists reason categories that often appear in lead agreements: an invalid or disconnected phone number, a duplicateDuplicateA lead for a consumer the buyer has already received within a set lookback period, from the same source or another one. Glossary lead, a lead outside the agreed area, a lead that does not match the agreed filters, the wrong vertical or sub-type, a consumer who denies submitting the request, and fake or test details.
A category on this list is not a promise that a seller accepts it. Each agreement sets its own reasons, time limits and evidence. Some agreements also list reasons that are not here, which is why the template has a blank line for them.
Evidence makes a request quicker to review. A dial log with times, a screenshot of a disconnected-number message, or the ID and date of the earlier lead in a duplicate claim gives the seller something to check.
To see how returns affect what you pay per usable lead, use the lead returns calculator. For how returns work in general, read lead returns.
Frequently asked questions
What should a lead return request include?
The lead ID, the date you received the lead, the date of the request, the return reason and the evidence for it. Add your name and company so the seller knows who to reply to.
Which return reasons are valid?
That depends on the agreement between you and the seller. This template lists common categories, but only your agreement says which ones apply and how long you have to ask.
How long do I have to request a lead return?
Your agreement sets the time allowed. Check it before you send a request, and send each request as soon as you find the problem, while your call records and notes are still easy to find.
How are returns handled at Summit Leads?
Returns are handled under return terms agreed during onboarding, before a buyer goes live.
Related tools
Buying MVA or home improvement leads?
Email us your verticals, states or ZIP codes, daily caps and delivery method. Return terms are agreed during onboarding, before you go live. Publishers with MVA or home improvement traffic can apply too.
Or write to team@summitleads.ai. We reply by email.
What happens next
- Step 1: You email us.
- Step 2: We reply by email.
- Step 3: Return terms are agreed on the onboarding call, before you go live.