Can I cancel an online purchase and get a refund?
Yes, within 14 days for a distance purchase. For any purchase online, by phone, by mail or off-premises (doorstep), you have a 14-day right of withdrawal (article L221-18 of the Consumer Code) to change your mind without justification. The period runs from receipt of the product. The seller must refund you within 14 days after getting the return (or proof of shipping). Note: this right does not apply to an in-store purchase (where the trader may, as a goodwill gesture, accept a return) and several products are excluded.
📋 The rules
- Distance / off-premises purchase: 14 days to withdraw
- No reason to give
- Period runs from receipt of the goods
- Refund within 14 days after the return
- In-store purchase: no legal right of withdrawal
🔓 Exceptions
- Personalised or made-to-order products
- Perishables and unsealed hygiene/health products
- Downloaded digital content, dated tickets (show, transport), newspapers
⚠️ Penalties & fines
If the seller didn't inform you of your right of withdrawal, the period is extended by 12 months. A professional who refuses a valid return or doesn't refund on time faces late-payment interest and a report to the DGCCRF. For the consumer, just clearly express the wish to withdraw (form or letter) then return the product within the deadline.
📎 Official sources
- Service-Public.fr · Right of withdrawal (distance purchase) →
- Légifrance · Article L221-18 of the Consumer Code →
- economie.gouv.fr · The right of withdrawal →
❓ Frequently asked
How long to cancel an online purchase?
14 days from receipt of the product, without justification. You express your withdrawal (form or letter), return the goods, and the seller refunds you within 14 days after the return.
Does withdrawal apply in store?
No. An in-store purchase grants no legal right of withdrawal. The trader may accept a return as a goodwill gesture, but isn't obliged to. The 14 days cover distance and off-premises purchases.
Which products are excluded?
Notably personalised or made-to-order products, perishables, unsealed hygiene or health products, downloaded digital content, dated tickets (show, transport) and newspapers.
What if the seller didn't inform me?
If the professional didn't inform you of your right of withdrawal, the 14-day period is extended by 12 months. It's strong protection for the poorly informed consumer.
Who pays the return costs?
Unless stated otherwise, return costs may be yours, but the seller must refund the product price and the standard delivery costs. Check the terms and conditions before ordering.
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