How to upgrade your Shopify legacy customer account … before it goes away completely!

If you’re still using legacy customer accounts on Shopify, they were the only customer accounts in the past. It is time to start planning your upgrade. Shopify is phasing out legacy accounts in favour of its newer customer account system, which offers improved security, a better user experience, and seamless login with one-time codes instead of passwords.

You can tell if you are using the old one if users need passwords to log in.

Upgrading isn’t just about staying compliant—it’s an opportunity to modernize your storefront, simplify login for customers, and unlock new features like self-service account management.

*Note: New accounts are password-less (customers log in via email codes), The account experience is hosted by Shopify (not your theme), Some apps or customizations may not be compatible.

Step-by-Step: How to Upgrade Shopify Legacy Customer Accounts

1. Check Your Current Account Setup

In your Shopify admin, go to Settings → Customer accounts, Look for whether you’re using “Legacy customer accounts”. (Continue steps before upgrading)

2. Review App Compatibility

Audit any apps tied to customer accounts (loyalty programs, subscriptions, etc.). Visit the Shopify App Store or app documentation to confirm compatibility with new accounts and replace unsupported apps if needed

3. Duplicate Your Theme

It’s recommended that you create a backup of your current theme in case upgrading your legacy account breaks something.

4. Test the Customer Experience

Log in as a customer using a test email Verify:

  • Login flow (email code works)
  • Order history visibility
  • Profile management

Check both desktop and mobile experiences.

5. Update Navigation & Links

Replace any old /account/login links if needed Ensure your login, account, and logout buttons work correctly.

6. Communicate the Change to Customers (optional)

  • Email announcement
  • Update your FAQ/help center

7. Launch and monitor

Now returning back to step 1, click upgrade:

  • Watch for customer support issues
  • Track login success rates and feedback
  • Fix any broken flows quickly

*Shopify gives you 30 days to revert back

Summary

Upgrading from Shopify’s legacy customer accounts is a necessary step before deprecation—but it’s also a valuable upgrade. By switching to the new system, you’ll improve security, reduce login friction, and future-proof your store. You can now add customers without the dreaded “password reset” links!

The update WILL have issues for those using loyalty systems. It could also upset your welcome flows, remember this was the only method of logging in to Shopify for many years.

In short:

  • Audit your current setup and apps
  • Enable the new customer accounts
  • Test thoroughly
  • Communicate changes clearly

Making the move now ensures a smooth transition and a better experience for your customers down the line. TranslatorHQ are specialists at understanding the archaeology of your Shopify past ,.. we were there and are ready to help it adapt.