How to Set Up Shopify Customer Accounts

Account Types

Shopify offers two types of customer accounts: new customer accounts and classic customer accounts. Your choice affects login methods, features, and customer experience.

New Customer Accounts

New customer accounts use passwordless authentication. Customers receive a one-time code via email to log in, eliminating password-related issues.

Benefits

• ✓No passwords to remember or reset
• ✓More secure (no password vulnerabilities)
• ✓Integrated with Shop app for order tracking
• ✓Faster login process

Limitations

• ×Less customisable than classic accounts
• ×Some third-party apps may not fully support them
• ×Customers need email access to log in

Classic Accounts

Classic accounts use traditional email and password authentication. They offer more customisation options but require customers to manage passwords.

When to Use Classic

• •You need extensive account page customisation
• •Third-party apps require classic account integration
• •B2B scenarios with specific login requirements
• •Migrating from another platform with existing accounts

Configuration

Configure customer accounts via Settings → Customer accounts in your Shopify admin.

1. 1
   Choose account version

   Select new customer accounts or classic customer accounts.

2. 2
   Set account requirements

   Choose optional, required, or disabled for checkout.

3. 3
   Configure self-serve options

   Enable customers to request returns, edit orders, etc.

Account Features

Customer accounts provide several features that improve the shopping experience.

Best Practices

• •Keep accounts optional: Never force account creation at checkout.
• •Highlight benefits: Explain why creating an account is valuable.
• •Offer account creation post-purchase: Ask after the sale is complete.
• •Test the experience: Create a test account and go through the full flow.