Order cancellation letter: withdraw from an online purchase, service or subscription

Use this order cancellation letter to withdraw from an online purchase, a service or a contract clearly and provably. Choose the type, enter your details, the trader and the order data, check the live preview, then download the letter as PDF or Word. Everything stays in your browser.

Source: Directive 2011/83/EU, Directive 2011/83/EU on consumer rights – right of withdrawal (Articles 9–16). Updated: 2 October 2026.

Cancellation

What do you want to cancel?

Date of the letter

Place

Goods (item, quantity)

Order or contract number

Ordered on

Goods received onFor goods, the cancellation period usually starts when you receive them, not when you order.

Ask for a refund to the original payment method

Ask for written confirmation of receipt

Sender (you as buyer)

Name

Address

Phone / email (optional)

Trader

Name or company

Address

Design and output

Paper size

Print small footer “toolboxday.com”

Sample text, not legal advice. Check the details and wording before you use the document.

Remember my entries in this browserStored only in this browser, never on a server. The photo is not saved.

Preview

My Toolbox

Result

How it is calculated

How the order cancellation letter works

Pick whether you are cancelling goods, a service or another contract, then enter the description, the order or contract number and the details of the trader and yourself. The tool assembles a letter with subject line, a clear statement of cancellation, a request for a refund to your original payment method and a signature line. It does not calculate deadlines, because they depend on the contract and your situation.

What the law says in the EU and the UK

For most contracts concluded at a distance (online, by phone) or away from the trader’s premises, consumers in the EU have 14 days to withdraw without giving a reason (Directive 2011/83/EU, Article 9). The UK has a comparable right to cancel in the Consumer Contracts Regulations 2013. For goods, the period generally starts when you receive them. The trader must refund within 14 days of learning of your decision, using the same means of payment (Article 13 of the Directive). Rules outside the EU and the UK differ, so check the law that applies to you.

Exceptions and proof

There is no right of withdrawal for some contracts, for example goods made to your specification or sealed hygiene products once unsealed. Send the letter in a way that proves the date, such as recorded delivery or an email with a delivery receipt, and keep your order confirmation. Arrange the return of the goods as the trader instructs.

Other letters

If you only want to end a running contract at the end of its term, use the cancellation letter template. If a refund does not arrive, the payment reminder letter helps.

Frequently asked questions

How do I write an order cancellation letter?

State your name and address, the trader, the order or contract number and the goods or service, say clearly that you cancel the contract, and sign. You do not need to give a reason.

How long do I have to cancel an online purchase?

In the EU and the UK it is generally 14 days, and for goods it usually starts when you receive them. Check your own case and send the notice in good time.

Does the notice have to be sent by post?

No particular form is required in most cases, but the statement must be clear. Choose a way that lets you prove when you sent it.

What happens to my money after I cancel?

The trader generally has to refund your payments within 14 days of learning of your decision, using the same means of payment you used (Directive 2011/83/EU, Article 13).

Is my data stored?

No. There is no upload and no account. Only if you tick “Remember my entries in this browser” are your entries kept locally in your browser.

Sources and legal basis

As of: 2 October 2026 · Editorial policy