DisputeKit / Maine
How to cancel a subscription that won't let you cancel in Maine
For online magazines, media players, mobile apps, social networking, internet game services, online software and health club memberships, Maine law (10 M.R.S. § 1210-C) requires the seller to allow cancellation using the same method and in the same manner by which the consumer signed up, and any cancellation phone number must be toll-free.
What the law says
Under 10 M.R.S. § 1210-D, a seller found in violation of that law based on unauthorized subscription or membership charges must refund or credit the consumer 3 times the unauthorized amounts.
Under the federal Restore Online Shoppers' Confidence Act (15 U.S.C. § 8403), a business that sells a subscription online with automatic charges must provide a simple way for the consumer to stop recurring charges.
Cancel in writing
A written cancellation notice sent by email and certified mail creates a dated record that you cancelled. Ask for written confirmation and a refund of any charge made after your cancellation date.
If charges continue, dispute them with your card issuer and file a complaint with the Maine Attorney General, Consumer Protection Division.
Steps
- Note the date you first tried to cancel
- Send a written cancellation notice
- Demand a refund of later charges
- Dispute charges with your card issuer if they continue
Common questions
What if they say I can only cancel by phone?
For online magazines, media players, mobile apps, social networking, internet game services, online software and health club memberships, Maine law (10 M.R.S. § 1210-C) requires the seller to allow cancellation using the same method and in the same manner by which the consumer signed up, and any cancellation phone number must be toll-free. A written notice also protects you if a phone cancellation is never processed.
Can I get charges after cancelling refunded?
You can demand them in writing and dispute them with your card issuer. Under the Fair Credit Billing Act, a billing-error dispute must reach the card issuer in writing within 60 days after the first statement showing the charge.