Starting July 14, a new Federal Trade Commission rule will make it easier for New Yorkers to cancel subscriptions and recurring services. Known as the “Click-to-Cancel” rule, this change requires companies to offer a cancellation process that’s just as simple as signing up — whether online, by phone, or in person.
What the new rule requires
Under the FTC’s updated rule:
- Companies must allow customers to cancel using the same method they used to subscribe.
- Online cancellations must be clear, accessible, and require no extra steps like mandatory chats.
- Companies must present key details about the subscription — such as costs, renewal terms, and cancellation steps — clearly and upfront.
The rule targets deceptive practices that trap consumers in unwanted or recurring subscriptions without an easy way to exit.
Attorney General Letitia James: “New Yorkers should not be tricked”
New York State Attorney General Letitia James is urging consumers to take full advantage of the new protections — and to report any companies that fail to comply.
“New Yorkers should never have to jump through hoops just to cancel an unwanted subscription,” said Attorney General James. “This new ‘Click-to-Cancel’ rule will protect consumers and ensure companies are operating fairly.”
Consumers can file a complaint through the Attorney General’s office at ag.ny.gov or by calling 1-800-771-7755.
Past enforcement actions in New York
Attorney General James has a record of holding companies accountable for unfair cancellation practices:
- In May 2025, Equinox was fined $600,000 and ordered to issue refunds to members who struggled to cancel gym memberships.
- In November 2024, her office won a lawsuit against SiriusXM for making it nearly impossible for New Yorkers to cancel radio subscriptions.
- In December 2023, the online mental health platform Cerebral paid $740,000 over its complicated cancellation policies.
- In June 2023, James joined 26 other attorneys general in backing the FTC’s proposal that led to this new rule.
What consumers should do next
If you subscribe to a service and struggle to cancel it:
- Try canceling using the same method you used to sign up (online, phone, or in person).
- Take screenshots or save emails showing failed cancellation attempts.
- File a complaint with the New York Attorney General’s office if the company does not comply with the rule.
Officials encourage consumers to stay vigilant and proactively report violations. Businesses that make canceling harder than signing up may now face legal consequences.
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