Cancel online: this is how it's done
There are many reasons why you might want to terminate a contract.
Such reasons can be, for example, that you are simply no longer satisfied with the company's service, the tariff has become too expensive or you simply no longer want to go (best example: gym).
But what's the quickest way to get rid of this annoying contract? Is it even possible to cancel online?
Many companies try to make the termination process as inconvenient and complicated as possible - after all, the customer should stay with the company for as long as possible.
While registration is often completed immediately, termination can usually take weeks.
In the following article, we will show you how to cancel online as quickly as possible - regardless of whether you want to cancel a cell phone plan, gym membership or online subscription.
Free download:
Cancellation templates for cell phone contracts
Content
Cancel online: Step-by-step
- Find the e-mail address of the provider: The notice of termination should - logically - be sent to the correct address. You therefore need to find the correct termination address for the company. A look at our list or to Google is enough.
- Formulate appropriate email: The e-mail should inform the provider briefly and concisely that you wish to cancel all services. This template helps with that.
- Send email
- Send email again in case: If the company has not responded, you should send the e-mail again in any case. It is important to request confirmation of the cancellation and to insist on rapid processing.
- Send email a third time: If the company still does not respond, customer service should be contacted (by phone) and the e-mail sent a third time. Recommendation: Threaten legal action in the event of further non-response.
Does a provider have to provide a Accept online termination?
No.
According to this standard article it is not mandatory for companies in Austria to accept termination by e-mail.
Thus, unfortunately, there are still some companies that accept cancellation only by fax or mail.
In our opinion, this is outdated and extremely customer-unfriendly - but that's what the law says.
Do I need to include a Signature?
Yes.
The provider may require a signature. However, this can also be created digitally, with the mouse or on the smartphone.
At Smallpdf.com for example, it is possible to upload the finished PDF notice of termination and then sign it using a mouse or trackpad.
This PDF can then be sent to the company in question.
When does a Special right of termination?
This is regulated differently from industry to industry.
At Mobile phone contracts For example, you have a special right of termination if you move to a place where the network is not available or if the contract becomes more expensive. In this case, however, the provider usually has to send an information letter.
At Gyms the situation is slightly different: if you can no longer go to the gym due to injury or if you move house, you have a special right of termination. Other health reasons are also possible.
Where to do I have to send the email?
As explained above, there is usually a special e-mail address for notices of termination.
Often a simple Google operation is enough to find the right address.
In our contribution Cancel cell phone contract we have collected the addresses of the 9 most popular Austrian providers.
Who can I contact if the Provider not responded?
Unfortunately, it happens again and again that providers do not respond to notices of termination.
Then a conciliation board will help.
In Austria, these are free mediators who are supposed to settle disputes between consumers and companies.
Arbitration boards in Austria:
- RTR conciliation body (mobile radio)
- Internet Ombudsman (Internet Services)
- Consumer arbitration (purchases of goods, travel, services, fitness memberships,...)
