State auto-renewal laws: can you cancel online?

The landscape

Beyond federal law (ROSCA), many states have their own automatic renewal laws. They usually require clear disclosure of renewal terms, your consent, and an easy way to cancel. A growing number explicitly require that if you signed up online, you can cancel online.

Strong examples:

• California — online cancellation and express consent (details).
• New York — cancellation as easy as sign-up, online for online sign-ups (details).
• Virginia — online cancellation requirements added in July 2026.

Requirements differ from state to state, and they keep changing, so check your state attorney general's website for the current rules.

What these laws usually give you

• A clear explanation of the price and renewal before you subscribe.
• A reminder before some renewals, especially yearly ones or free trials converting to paid.
• A cancellation path that doesn't force you to call or sit through endless offers.

When the company doesn't comply

1. Keep screenshots and confirmation emails.
2. Send a written cancellation request.
3. Stop the payment or dispute the charge.
4. Report the company to your attorney general.