New revocation button for online stores

Germany converts EU 2023/2673 Directive into German law

From June 19, 2026, operators of online stores and other digital sales platforms must offer their customers an electronic withdrawal function that allows them to withdraw from concluded contracts with a simple click.

This obligation arises from a current draft law from the Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection (BMJV) (Press release of the BMJV on the draft law) to transpose the EU Consumer Protection Directive EU 2023/2673 into German law. This directive requires a "functioning and easily accessible" online withdrawal option.

What is the revocation button?

The cancel button allows customers in online stores to cancel a contract that has already been concluded directly and without any detours. Instead of laboriously printing out forms or writing emails, one click will be enough to initiate the revocation in future.

To whom does the obligation apply?

The new obligation affects all companies that conclude contracts online with consumers - i.e. typically B2C webshops or platforms with goods, digital services or subscriptions. If no right of withdrawal is provided for by law (e.g. for pure B2B contracts), the obligation does not apply.

How must the revocation button be integrated?

The following points must be taken into account for correct integration:

  • Clearly visible and unambiguous labeling: e.g. "Revoke contract"
  • Always available: It must be displayed during the entire statutory withdrawal period
  • Accessible without login: Customers must be able to access the button without an account
  • Two-step process: After clicking, a follow-up page must appear on which customers can identify their contract and confirm the withdrawal - including confirmation of receipt by email.

Why is this regulation important?

With the withdrawal button, the EU directive aims to provide more consumer protection in e-commerce. Withdrawal should be as uncomplicated as the purchase itself. This strengthens trust in online stores and ensures greater transparency in the ordering process.

The withdrawal button is no longer an optional feature, but will be legally mandatory for many online stores in the EU from summer 2026.

We recommend starting early with the integration of the new withdrawal process, as many store systems do not yet offer a standard solution.