States agree to mandatory right of withdrawal button in online shops - Germany's new 'one-click' cancellation law reshapes consumer rights overnight

A new law has come into force, making it far easier for consumers to cancel orders and withdraw from contracts. With a single click, shoppers can now exit agreements within the standard 14-day cooling-off period. Federal Justice Minister Stefanie Hubig has called the reform a 'genuine breakthrough in consumer policy'.

The legislation introduces a key change: companies must now display a clear cancellation button on their websites and apps. This button will allow users to terminate purchases or subscriptions without navigating complex menus or hidden links. The move aims to end confusing processes that often discourage consumers from exercising their rights.

Beyond retail, the law also targets finance services. Online providers will face stricter rules to prevent the misuse of 'dark patterns'—design tricks that push users into unintended purchases or subscriptions. These measures ensure transparency and fairness in digital transactions.

In healthcare, patients gain a new right: free access to their full medical records. Previously, some providers charged fees for copies of test results or treatment histories. The change removes this financial barrier, giving individuals greater control over their personal health data.

Minister Hubig, who signed the Council of Europe Convention on the Protection of the Legal Profession in January 2026, has championed these reforms as part of broader efforts to strengthen consumer rights across Germany.

The reforms take immediate effect, forcing businesses to adapt their digital platforms. Consumers will benefit from simpler cancellations, clearer finance services, and unrestricted access to medical files. The government expects the changes to reduce disputes and improve trust in online transactions.