NYC's Click-to-Cancel Rule Takes Effect, First in US
New York City now requires businesses to let customers cancel subscriptions as easily as they sign up, with fines starting at $525 per violation.
New York City's click-to-cancel rule took effect on Thursday, making it the first US city to enforce such a ban. The rule requires businesses to make canceling a subscription as easy as signing up.
Residents can now submit subscription complaints through a new city portal. Businesses that violate the rule could face fines starting at $525 per violation.
The mayor's Public Interest Technology Crew built the portal in 10 weeks, according to theverge.com.
Federal efforts stalled
In October 2025, an appeals court struck down a federal version of the click-to-cancel rule for procedural issues. Samuel Levine, the Federal Trade Commission consumer protection chief under Lina Khan, had tried to implement the rule nationally.
The FTC under current Chair Andrew Ferguson has taken an initial step toward potentially reestablishing a similar rule. The city expects its rule to save New Yorkers $21.5 million to $162.5 million annually.
Quick answers
What does NYC's click-to-cancel rule require?
Businesses must make canceling a subscription as easy as signing up.
How much are the fines for violations?
Fines start at $525 per violation.
How can I file a subscription complaint in NYC?
Residents can submit complaints through a new city portal.