New laws to make it easier to cancel subscriptions and get refunds
3 hours ago
- #Auto-Renewals
- #Subscription Traps
- #Consumer Rights
- New laws aim to simplify subscription cancellations and provide refunds for unwanted auto-renewals, potentially saving the average person around £170 annually.
- Consumers will be able to cancel subscriptions with a single click and receive a 14-day cooling-off period after trials or annual renewals, with full or proportionate refunds available.
- Companies must give clear upfront information, send reminders before trial ends or contracts renew, and prevent 'silent roll-ons' to expensive contracts.
- The changes, expected in spring 2027, could save the public £400m yearly, with an estimated 10 million unwanted active subscriptions in the UK.
- Exceptions include certain charitable, cultural, and heritage memberships, while consumer advocates and some businesses welcome the increased transparency and control.