On 5 February 2026, the German Bundestag adopted the Act Amending Consumer Contract Law, Insurance Contract Law and Medical Treatment Contract Law (Gesetz zur Änderung des Verbrauchervertrags- und des Versicherungsvertragsrechts sowie zur Änderung des Behandlungsvertragsrechts).
The new legislation represents another step in the implementation of EU consumer protection requirements and introduces significant obligations for businesses operating online sales channels. Most provisions will enter into force on 19 June 2026.
Mandatory Withdrawal Button
One of the most important changes is the introduction of a mandatory electronic withdrawal function (“Widerrufsbutton”) for distance contracts concluded online.
The withdrawal button must:
- be clearly visible and easily accessible,
- remain available throughout the statutory withdrawal period,
- be integrated into the trader’s online interface.
Consumers will be able to withdraw from contracts directly through the website without sending a separate notice by post or email.
Upon receipt of a withdrawal declaration, the trader must immediately provide confirmation containing the withdrawal statement as well as the date and time of receipt.
What does it mean in practice?
The entry into force of the German Act Amending Consumer Contract Law, Insurance Contract Law and Medical Treatment Contract Law will entail an obligation for businesses to adapt their withdrawal policies set out in their general terms and conditions and to update their technical systems and processes in order to comply with the newly introduced consumer rights of withdrawal.
Grau Rechtsanwälte PartGmbB offers legal support to e-commerce entrepreneurs in all legal aspects of running an online shop in Germany.
If you have any further questions, please contact our law firm on +49 (0) 40 180 364 020 or kontakt@graulaw.eu.
