Canceling Subscriptions Shouldn’t Be Hard: What the FTC Wants and How You Can Protect Your Digital Life

From Netflix and Spotify to meal kits and software subscriptions, recurring charges are a normal part of modern life. But canceling them? That’s a whole different story. Many companies make cancellation confusing, requiring multiple clicks, phone calls, or emails that go unanswered. Consumers often end up paying for services they no longer use and it adds up fast.

That’s why the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is working to make subscription cancellation as easy as signing up for the service in the first place. The idea is simple: if you can join with a click, you should be able to stop recurring charges with the same ease, clarity, and transparency.

Art Shaikh, CEO of DigitalWill.com, notes: “Most people don’t realize how many subscriptions are linked to their online accounts. When these accounts are hard to cancel, it not only impacts finances but also adds stress that could be easily avoided with better planning.”

What the FTC Subscription Cancellation Rules Mean for Consumers

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is working to simplify this process. Their proposed “click-to-cancel” rule would require companies to make canceling a subscription just as easy as signing up. That means no hidden menus, long phone queues, or tricks to keep you paying. Businesses would also need to ask for clear consent before presenting additional offers during cancellation. Companies that ignore the rule could face significant fines.

Why It Matters

The FTC receives thousands of complaints every year about subscriptions that are hard to cancel. Unwanted charges can cost consumers hundreds of dollars annually. Simplifying the process saves money, prevents frustration, and builds trust in online services. Shaikh adds, “This isn’t just about money, it’s about making sure people have control over their digital lives. Canceling subscriptions should never feel like a trap.”

Tips to Stay Ahead of Subscription Traps

Even before the FTC rule becomes law, you can take steps to protect yourself:

• Keep a list of recurring payments: Track all your active subscriptions.

• Use bank alerts or digital wallets: Spot unwanted charges quickly.

• Cancel proactively: Don’t wait until the next billing cycle.

• Read terms carefully: Know auto-renew and cancellation rules.

How This Connects to Your Digital Life

Managing subscriptions is part of a larger trend: our lives are increasingly digital. Just as a digital will ensures online accounts and assets are handled properly after you pass, proactive subscription management protects your finances and reduces stress in everyday life. Shaikh emphasizes, “A small amount of planning now — whether for subscriptions or digital accounts — can save your family hours of frustration later.”

Key Takeaways

• Canceling subscriptions shouldn’t be difficult, but many companies make it that way.

• The FTC’s proposed “click-to-cancel” rule aims to simplify the process and protect consumers.

• Keep an updated list of subscriptions, use alerts, and act proactively to save time and money.

• Managing subscriptions is part of a modern digital life, just like planning for your digital assets with a digital will.