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Cancellation

Subscription traps and magazine subscriptions: how to get out

A free trial issue turns into an annual subscription, one click online into an invoice. Since 2022 German consumers have much better cards: shorter notice, a cancellation button and clear rules on when a contract even exists.

Updated August 2026 · 5 minutes read

Annoyed woman holding an invoice in front of an overflowing mailbox and a pile of magazines

Subscription trap: is there a contract at all?

For online orders the order button must clearly state the payment obligation, e.g. "order with obligation to pay" (§ 312j(3) BGB). Without it, no contract exists. Don't pay — dispute the claim in writing.

If concluded by phone or at the door, you can withdraw within 14 days without reasons (§ 355 BGB). See withdrawal by letter.

Cancelling under the new rules

For contracts concluded since 1 March 2022: after the minimum term (max. two years) the subscription only extends indefinitely and can then be cancelled with one month's notice (§ 309 no. 9 BGB). Older contracts follow their old terms.

No stricter form than text form may be required. Subscriptions concluded online must offer a cancellation button (§ 312k BGB).

Hand writing a cancellation letter next to a magazine and a calendar with a circled date
Note the cancellation date and send the letter in time with proof.

Sample text

Dear Sir or Madam,
I hereby cancel my subscription [title], customer number [number], at the earliest possible date. Please confirm the cancellation and end date in writing. I revoke the direct debit mandate as of the end of the contract.
Yours faithfully

Why by letter with proof?

Dubious providers often claim the cancellation "never arrived". Registered mail proves receipt. Template: cancellation letter.

Note: This article is not legal advice.

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