From 19 June 2026, online retailers will be required to provide a digital cancellation function on their websites – a so-called ‘cancellation button’. The new rule is intended to offer buyers greater convenience, security and transparency. Today, many contracts can be concluded online with just a few clicks. Cancelling a contract, on the other hand, is often a cumbersome process. Consumers usually have to search for contact details, write an email or fill in a form. The aim of the new Europe-wide regulation is to make it just as easy to withdraw from a contract online as it is to enter into one.
This new obligation stems from an EU directive. In Germany, it is being implemented in the Civil Code (BGB). The new withdrawal button is then regulated in Section 356a of the BGB.
The cancellation button applies to online contracts between businesses and consumers, for which a right of cancellation generally applies. Such contracts may, for example, have been concluded via a website, a booking site, an online marketplace or an app.
Easy-to-use withdrawal process required
A traditional button is not strictly necessary; a clearly labelled link is sufficient. It is important that the function is easy to find and clearly recognisable. After clicking the button or link, buyers must confirm the withdrawal in a second step. The business must then send an electronic confirmation of receipt, for example by email. This must include the date and time of the withdrawal. The withdrawal function must therefore be available to consumers without the need for registration or any additional hurdles.
The actual right of withdrawal is not affected by the new legal provisions. Withdrawal remains possible only within the statutory time limit. This is generally 14 days after the contract is concluded or the goods are delivered.
Further information:
Withdrawal button from June 2026: Withdrawing from online contracts made easier | Verbraucherzentrale.de
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