A traveller checks their phone while waiting at Seattle–Tacoma International Airport in Seattle. (AP Photo/Jenny Kane)
Just days before it was set to begin, a federal court blocked the U.S. government's much-anticipated “click-to-cancel” rule. The regulation, created by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), was supposed to simplify the process of cancelling unwanted subscriptions. It would’ve made businesses let you unsubscribe as easily as you sign up—no calls, no hoops.
Now that the rule is off the table, for now, many are left wondering how to stop recurring charges they never meant to keep paying. The good news? There are still practical ways to take back control of your subscriptions—even if it requires a little more effort.
1. Mark the End of Free Trials on Your Calendar
One overlooked tactic is setting calendar reminders. Experts from the Consumer Federation of America suggest this simple step to stay ahead of auto-renewals. Most companies don’t send out emails when your free trial is ending, so you’re on your own unless you stay alert.
It’s during this “silent switch” that many users get charged full price without even realizing. So, whether it's a gym, streaming service, or shopping membership—set a date and be ready to cancel before your trial becomes a paid plan.
2. Scan Your Bills Every Month
Don’t rely solely on memory. Go through your debit or credit card statements regularly. You may find surprise charges or fee increases that went unnoticed. Companies tend to hope you won’t see a small $7 or $9 charge—until it piles up over months.
Consumer advocates agree that part of the issue is how these companies make it too easy to sign up—but exhausting to back out. That’s why vigilance pays off.
3. Read the Fine Print
It’s easy to click “Subscribe,” but harder to find the exit. And since the FTC’s rule didn’t pass, some businesses still require you to cancel subscriptions by phone—even if you enrolled online.
Though it may seem like a hassle, reading the subscription terms carefully can save you long hours on hold or fighting cancellation policies. And when in doubt, call the customer support number and ask directly about how to opt out.
4. Let Apps Help You Out
Apps like Rocket Money or Trim can track your recurring payments. These tools spot new subscriptions, monitor charges, and sometimes even cancel services for you.
Rocket Money will try to cancel on your behalf, and if it can’t, it’ll send you the steps to do it yourself. Trim offers a similar service, with advanced options for those willing to pay a bit more. Parents, especially, may find these tools helpful in spotting unexpected subscriptions made by kids.
5. Don’t Fall for “Stay” Discounts
Ever try cancelling and get hit with a “Wait! We’ll give you two months half-off!” offer? That’s no accident. It’s part of a strategy companies use to keep you locked in.
Consumer advocates say these tempting deals just restart the cycle. That promo price becomes full price after a month or two, and you’re right back where you started—paying for something you barely use.
If you’re serious about quitting, resist the offer and walk away.
What the FTC Rule Would Have Done
Had the rule gone into effect, companies would’ve needed to clearly state when free trials or promotions ended—and get your permission before charging you.
But a federal court shut it down, saying the FTC didn’t provide the required economic analysis for a rule expected to impact the economy by more than $100 million. The agency argued it didn’t need to, as it believed the impact was under that mark. A judge disagreed, and the court sided with him.
President Biden’s administration had tied the rule to its “Time is Money” campaign, which aimed to eliminate the small hassles that drain time—and wallets—from everyday consumers.
