> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://help.smile.io/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Deactivate referral program

> Temporarily disable or pause your referral program, or reactivate a referral program that is currently deactivated.

Deactivating your referral program will pause the program for your customers, including removing access to their referral links. You can continue to make changes to your program while it's deactivated.

A program (Points, Referrals, or VIP) must be enabled to appear on your storefront. If a program is deactivated, it will not be visible to customers on your site.

<Info>
  **Important:** The Points, Referral and VIP programs can be deactivated or activated independently of each other. To deactivate another program, read our guides on [deactivating a points program](/en/articles/4036222-deactivate-points-program) or [deactivating a VIP program](/en/articles/11801166-deactivate-or-reactivate-vip-program).
</Info>

## Deactivate or activate your referral program

To deactivate or reactivate your referral program:

1. In Smile Admin, navigate to **Program** > [Referrals](https://app.smile.io/reward-programs/referrals).
2. In the **Referral status** card, click **Deactivate** or **Activate.**

<Note>
  **Note:** All customizations applied prior to deactivating your referral program, or changes made while it is deactivated, are saved to your Smile account. You won't need to re-customize your program after reactivating.
</Note>

## Program behavior while deactivated

While a referral program is deactivated:

* The referral section of the panel will not be visible on your website. (Note: if points and/or VIP programs remain active, these sections will remain visible.)
* Referral links will not work, and customers will not be able to share their referral link through the panel or nudges.
* New customers won't be able to follow a friend's referral link for a reward.
* Rewards will not be issued for referral purchases.
* Previously generated loyalty coupons or points earned through referrals will remain active and customers will be able to use them.