The short answer: UK subscription law 2027 brings sweeping changes under the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024 (DMCCA) and the Consumer Subscription Contracts (Cancellation and Information) Regulations 2026 (SCR 2026). From 1 January 2027, businesses offering B2C subscription contracts to UK consumers must comply with strict obligations on pre-contract information, cooling-off periods, renewal reminders, easy cancellation and proportionate refunds.
This comprehensive guide explains what changes, who is affected, key obligations, and includes an interactive UK subscription compliance checker.
What Changes Under UK Subscription Law 2027?
The DMCCA 2024 creates a new regime for consumer subscription contracts. The SCR 2026 sets detailed requirements. The reforms target unwanted subscriptions and give the CMA direct enforcement powers from 1 January 2027.
Who Is Affected?
The rules apply to B2C subscription contracts entered into on or after 1 January 2027. Some exemptions may apply - check GOV.UK guidance.
Key Obligations
| Obligation | Requirement | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-contract information | Clear key and full pre-contract information before contract entry | Before formation |
| Initial cooling-off | 14-day cooling-off from entry | Days 1-14 |
| Renewal cooling-off | 14-day cooling-off on renewals in scope | On renewal |
| Reminder notices | Reminders before trial converts to paid and before auto-renewal | Before conversion/renewal |
| Easy cancellation | Online cancellation if sign-up was online, not harder than subscribing | Ongoing |
| Proportionate refunds | Proportionate refunds on valid cancellations | On cancellation |
Interactive UK Subscription Compliance Checker
UK Subscription Rules Compliance Checker (2027)
Action Plan Before 1 January 2027
- Audit all B2C subscriptions, trials, auto-renewals
- Add key pre-contract info at checkout
- Update T&Cs to reflect DMCCA/SCR 2026
- Automate trial-conversion and renewal reminders
- Make online cancellation as easy as sign-up if applicable
- Update refund processes for proportionate refunds
