Online purchases: Bundestag makes cancellation button mandatory for shops

The Bundestag has passed a bill requiring online retailers to integrate a prominently visible cancellation button in their shops and apps. This is intended to make the cancellation of online purchases as easy for consumers as the conclusion of the contract itself.

What has been decided

  • In the future, retailers must provide a clearly labeled button such as "Cancel contract," through which cancellation is possible with a few clicks.
  • The button must be easily accessible and visually highlighted on the user interface throughout the entire 14-day cancellation period.
  • The law implements the EU Directive 2023/2673 and was adopted by a clear majority in the Bundestag.

From when does the obligation apply?

  • By June 19, 2026 at the latest, companies that conclude contracts with consumers online must offer a digital cancellation function.
  • The obligation applies EU-wide and covers nearly all B2C distance contracts for goods, services, digital content, and many financial products.
  • The implementation details will be carried out in German law, particularly via the new § 356a BGB.

Who is affected?

  • Affected are online shops, platform operators, subscription and streaming services, and financial product brokers, as long as they conclude contracts with consumers via an online interface.
  • The obligation applies regardless of company size or revenue; smaller retailers and niche shops must also integrate the button.
  • Exceptions apply where there is no statutory right of withdrawal, such as for certain travel services or highly personalized products.

How must the button work?

  • A two-step process is planned with buttons like "Cancel contract" and "Confirm cancellation" to avoid accidental clicks.
  • After submission, the entrepreneur must confirm receipt of the cancellation immediately on a durable medium (e.g., email).
  • Many specialist departments recommend permanently displaying the button in the customer account or order overview to combine legal certainty and user-friendliness.

Consequences for e-commerce

  • Retailers must technically and legally adapt their UX, checkout routes, and customer accounts, including GTC, cancellation policy, and system logic.
  • Associations and law firms warn of the risk of warnings and possible fines if the button, label, or process is not designed in compliance with the guidelines.
  • For consumers, cancellation is likely to become significantly easier and more transparent, which could lead to more cancellations but also increase trust in online shops.

Note for Smartstore users: The legally required cancellation function will, of course, be standard in future Smartstore versions and implemented in such a way that shop operators can meet the new requirements legally and comfortably starting in June 2026.

This legal news does not constitute legal advice. If you are unsure, we recommend hiring a lawyer. More information about this new legislation can be found here.