diff --git a/.github/PULL_REQUEST_TEMPLATE.md b/.github/PULL_REQUEST_TEMPLATE.md
index 0c9416347..7257606a8 100644
--- a/.github/PULL_REQUEST_TEMPLATE.md
+++ b/.github/PULL_REQUEST_TEMPLATE.md
@@ -8,7 +8,11 @@ Note: All PRs with code changes should be targeted to the `dev` branch, pure doc
 Please include a summary of the change and which issue is fixed (if any) and any relevant motivation / context. List any dependencies that are required for this change. If appropriate, please include an explanation of how your proposed change can be tested. Screenshots and / or videos can also be helpful if appropriate.
 -->
 
-Fixes # (issue)
+<!--
+⚠️ Important: Pull requests that implement a new feature *should almost always target an existing feature request*. This is in order to balance the work of implementing and maintaining new features vs. community-interest. If that is not currently the case, please open a feature request instead of this PR to gather feedback from both users and the project maintainers.
+-->
+
+Closes #(issue or discussion)
 
 ## Type of change
 
@@ -17,10 +21,11 @@ What type of change does your PR introduce to Paperless-ngx?
 NOTE: Please check only one box!
 -->
 
-- [ ] Bug fix (non-breaking change which fixes an issue)
-- [ ] New feature (non-breaking change which adds functionality)
-- [ ] Breaking change (fix or feature that would cause existing functionality to not work as expected)
-- [ ] Other (please explain):
+- [ ] Bug fix: non-breaking change which fixes an issue.
+- [ ] New feature: non-breaking change which adds functionality. _Please read the important note above._
+- [ ] Breaking change: fix or feature that would cause existing functionality to not work as expected.
+- [ ] Documentation only.
+- [ ] Other. Please explain:
 
 ## Checklist: