That’s Not My Fault! An Intro to Disclaimers

You finally launched it.

The course you poured your heart into. The modules are tight, the welcome sequence is humming, and those student wins? Chef’s kiss.

You’re making an impact and building a steady stream of income doing what you love.
Then one morning, you check your inbox and see a message that makes your stomach drop:

“This course didn’t help me sign a client in 30 days like the testimonials said. I want a refund—and I might talk to my lawyer.”

Suddenly, all the joy of helping people gets steamrolled by panic.

Could you really be legally responsible for someone else’s lack of results?

Short answer: yes—unless you have proper disclaimers in place.

Let’s break down what disclaimers are, when you need them, and why they’re a non-negotiable piece of your course business.

What Is a Disclaimer?

A disclaimer is a legal statement that sets clear expectations between what you're offering and what someone might assume they’re getting.

Think of it like a seatbelt for your business. You hope you’ll never need it—but when you do, you'll be glad it was there.

In plain terms, a disclaimer tells people:

• What you are and aren’t responsible for

• What kind of results they can’t expect as guaranteed

• That your content isn’t a replacement for professional advice (like legal, medical, or financial)

When Do You Need a Disclaimer?

If you’re selling digital products, online courses, or coaching programs, there’s a high chance you need one—or several.

You should definitely include disclaimers if:

• You’re selling online courses or programs (especially those promising results or transformation)
  
• You’re showcasing testimonials or case studies from past clients
  
• You’re giving advice related to health, wellness, money, or mindset
  
• You’re teaching strategies that could impact someone’s business or income
  
• You’re hosting group calls or live Q&A sessions with paying students
  

Here’s the rule of thumb: If outcomes can vary from person to person, you need a disclaimer.

Benefits of Having Disclaimers

You might be thinking, “But I’m just one person running a small business—do I really need all this legal stuff?”

Yes. And here’s why:

• Legal protection: A well-written disclaimer can help prevent or defend against lawsuits, refund disputes, and chargebacks.
  
• Clear expectations: You’re being upfront about what your course can and can’t promise. That builds trust and sets boundaries.
  
• Professional credibility: Using disclaimers shows that you take your business seriously—and it reassures clients that you’ve thought things through.
  
• Clarification of scope: Disclaimers help clarify that your services are not a substitute for licensed financial, legal, or medical advice.
  
• Peace of mind: You can show up and teach without worrying about legal “what-ifs” every time you share a bold claim or client win.
  

Bottom line: Disclaimers help you protect your purpose AND your paycheck.

What Can Go Wrong Without a Disclaimer?

Let’s go back to that stomach-dropping email from earlier.

Someone misinterprets your success story as a guaranteed result. Or they apply your wellness tips in a way that backfires. Or they expected a $10K month and got $10 in sales.

If you didn’t include the right disclaimers, you could be accused of:

• False advertising
  
• Deceptive business practices
  
• Providing unlicensed medical, financial, or legal advice
  
• Failing to deliver on implied promises
  

Without a disclaimer, a client’s disappointment can quickly turn into a legal nightmare. And unfortunately, “I didn’t know I needed one” isn’t a strong defense.

You don’t need to live in fear. But you do need to be prepared.

3 Common Disclaimers Every Coach and Course Creator Needs

1. Testimonial Disclaimer

When you share glowing feedback from past clients, it’s easy for new students to assume they’ll get the same results.

But every person is different—background, commitment level, timing, energy, etc.

A testimonial disclaimer makes that crystal clear.

Example: “These testimonials reflect the experiences of real clients. But these results are not guaranteed, and your individual experience may vary.”

2. Earnings & Results Disclaimer

If you teach business strategy, sales funnels, or anything tied to revenue—this one is essential.

You’re not promising overnight riches. You’re offering a strategy, not a magic bullet.

Example: “This program is designed to help you grow your business, but results will vary depending on individual effort, market conditions, and other factors. Specific earnings are not guaranteed.”

3. Health & Medical Disclaimer

Creators or coaches who cover nutrition, health, fitness, or wellness—this one’s for you.

Unless you’re a licensed medical professional, or nutritionist it’s critical to clarify that your course is for educational purposes only.

Example: “The content in this course is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any medical condition. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider before implementing any changes to your health routine.”

4. Mental Health / Therapy Disclaimer

If your course or coaching program touches on mindset, emotional healing, trauma, or therapeutic concepts, this one’s key. Unless you're a licensed mental health professional, make it crystal clear you're not offering therapy.

Example: “This program includes tools for personal growth and emotional well-being. It is not a substitute for professional mental health care or therapy. If you are experiencing distress or need mental health support, please reach out to a licensed therapist or counselor.”

Where Should You Put Disclaimers?

Disclaimers only protect you if they’re actually seen—so make sure they’re easy to find.

• In your online course/coaching agreement
  
• On your sales page
  
• Within your client portal or workbooks
  
• At the start of live calls, workshops, or replays
  
• In your checkout process or terms and conditions
  

Final Thoughts: Protect Your Course—and Your Peace of Mind

Your online course is powerful. It helps people make real changes in their lives and businesses.
But even the best content can be misunderstood. That’s why disclaimers matter.

They don’t make you less confident in your offer—they make you more protected and professional.

They give your clients the clarity they deserve and give you the security you need to run your business with confidence.

Ready to safeguard your course business?

Grab a lawyer-crafted Online Course Agreement Template that includes all the essential disclaimers—so you can stop worrying about legal stuff and get back to doing what you love.