cancel button

[martindavinci]

I read in various posts that the ‘cancel’ button is only mandatory in Germany. After doing some research, I am certain that this button will be mandatory across the entire EU from 19 June 2026, following a legislative change at EU level (December 2025).
The rules stem from EU Directive 2023/2673, which is being implemented in all Member States.

(In my opinion, there is no point in having an opinion on this, as it would be a futile effort and therefore have no effect whatsoever).

Significant fines may be imposed if the cancellation button is not correctly displayed in the online shop from 19 June 2026 onwards. It is important to note that a simple link to a ‘returns policy’ is absolutely not sufficient!

Here in the Netherlands, we have trade associations (consumer quality marks) that will certainly take action if it is missing. Quality marks must adapt their own codes of conduct to European legislation.
Once the law comes into force on 19 June 2026, an online shop without this button will simply no longer pass the inspection by these organisations.

It seems to me, not least to avoid any panic reactions, that it is important to at least give this some thought.
I would appreciate feedback on whether this – in my view, quite important – law is known to every shop owner.
Regards, Martin.

[Dan Cole]

@martindavinci Have a look at this thread and the add on that Rainer has pointed to towards the end of it. it sounds like what you are looking for.

viewtopic.php?f=10&t=3051&hilit=cancel+order

Dan

[martindavinci]

Well, thanks for the tip. I’ve installed this add-on, and that’s precisely why I posted earlier. Previously, this was only intended for Germany, but now it covers the whole of the EU. I’m not sure about the UK, but I’m sure I’ll find the answer online.

[martindavinci]

After (deciding to go ahead and do it) asking ChatGPT and Claude.ai:
What is the fine for not having a “cancel button” in an online shop in the EU?

Here is the answer:

From 19 June 2026, a clear ‘cancel button’ will be mandatory for online shops in the EU that offer online orders or subscriptions. Failure to include this button may result in substantial fines.

Fines of up to €50,000 or 4% of annual turnover: For failing to provide the button, regulators may impose fines of up to €50,000, or for larger companies, up to 4% of annual turnover in the EU.

Extended cooling-off period: If the information regarding the right to cancel is incorrect (including the absence of an easy way to cancel), the statutory cooling-off period of 14 days may be extended to 12 months and 14 days.
Warnings (Abmahnungen): Competitors or consumer organisations may issue warnings, which can lead to legal proceedings and high legal costs.
Binding withdrawal: If a consumer cannot easily cancel, a withdrawal via another channel may be considered quicker and legally more binding.

Important: The rules are being tightened to make cancelling an online purchase just as easy as placing it (‘cancellation button’ / ‘stop button’).

I think Raiwa has provided the perfect answer. Please note that the translations into the ‘other’ languages must be of a very high standard, as this is a legal matter. I was warned by the AI! (paid Claude version)


Translated with DeepL.com (free version)