Ordered online and regret it? Your 14-day right of withdrawal
Ordered online and it does not fit after all? For purchases in online retail (distance selling), as a consumer you generally have a 14-day right of withdrawal, without giving reasons. What matters are the deadline and a few exceptions.
Reach your next steps and the matching ready-made texts in just a few minutes, free of charge:
Create a withdrawal →Your chances of getting your money back
What you should do now
- 1
1. Check the deadline
You count 14 days from receipt of the goods. If you did not receive a correct notice, you have considerably longer.
- 2
2. Declare the withdrawal in writing
Declare the withdrawal clearly (email or letter), state the order number and date. Simply sending the goods back is not always enough; the declaration is safer.
- 3
3. Return the goods
Send the goods back on time. The retailer must refund the purchase price including standard outbound shipping; depending on the notice, you bear the return costs.
- 4
4. Insist on a refund
If the retailer does not refund, set a deadline and refer to § 355 BGB.
Frequently asked questions
For which purchases is there no right of withdrawal?
Exceptions include quickly perishable goods, unsealed hygiene, audio or video items, individually made products and downloads for which you agreed to immediate execution. Goods bought in a store have no statutory right of withdrawal anyway.
Do I have to give a reason?
No. The right of withdrawal in distance selling exists without giving reasons. You only have to declare the withdrawal on time and clearly.
Take action now
We put together the ready-made texts and the right places to contact for you.
General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.