New consumer rights: How to cancel free trial offers correctly!

New consumer rights: How to cancel free trial offers correctly!

In today's consumer society, free trial offers are very popular. These offers allow consumers to try out products or services for free over a certain period of time. A current example of this is the test phases that a company offers on its website. According to MOZ.de, the free trial period is four weeks, and cancellation can be made within this period without incurring any costs. This is particularly advantageous for consumers who first want to test whether the offer suits their needs.

However, the legal framework for such test offers is complex and requires a closer look. Consumer Lawyer Online explains that companies are obliged to explain all conditions clearly and understandably. However, this is often not done sufficiently, which can lead to confusion. Particularly important are the new consumer protection laws, which have been in force since 2021 and are aimed at protecting consumers from unwanted contract extensions.

Termination conditions and contract extension

After the free test phase, which lasts four weeks, the subscription contract becomes subject to payment. From the fifth week onwards there are 12 weeks for a total of 20 euros, which is due as a one-off debit at the beginning when registering. From the 17th week onwards there will be an extension at the current normal price with four-weekly billing. Consumers have the flexibility to cancel at any time at the end of the payment cycle. This can be done directly on the provider’s website or app.

However, caution is advised because, according to Consumer Lawyer Online, the notice period for contracts from free trial offers is one month to the end of the minimum term. If termination is not given in a timely manner, unwanted extensions may occur. Contract extensions may only take place with the express consent of the consumer, which is stipulated in Section 312d of the German Civil Code (BGB).

Consumer rights and tips on termination

Consumers should be clear about their rights: they have the right to information, timely termination and even extraordinary termination in certain circumstances, such as price increases or adverse contract changes. Companies are also obliged to keep a reminder of the end of the test phase and must document telephone advertising. The legal retention period for such documentation is two years.

Before consumers decide on a free trial offer, it is advisable to carefully check the contract details and pay attention to the cancellation periods. To ensure that terminations are effective, they should be documented in writing or by email. Introducing a cancellation button on provider sites that is clear and user-friendly has the potential to make the cancellation process easier and reduce the common problems with trial offers.

Overall, it shows that while free trial offers are tempting, a certain level of attention and understanding of your own rights as a consumer is necessary to avoid unpleasant surprises. Consumers should inform themselves about their rights and obligations at all times and, if in doubt, seek legal advice.