Consumer rights
Refund and consumer rights: United Kingdom
UK law gives you 30 days to reject faulty goods for a full refund, and 14 days to cancel most online and phone purchases. Credit card purchases between £100 and £30,000 also get Section 75 protection.
Last reviewed against official sources on
Key points
| Right | What it means | Law |
|---|---|---|
| Short-term right to reject | 30 days to reject faulty goods for a full refund | Consumer Rights Act 2015 |
| Cancellation (distance sales) | 14 days to cancel most online, phone and doorstep purchases, normally counted from the day after delivery | Consumer Contracts Regulations 2013 |
| Refund after cancelling | The seller must refund within 14 days of getting the goods back, or of evidence that you returned them | Consumer Contracts Regulations 2013 |
| Section 75 | Your credit card provider is jointly liable with the seller for purchases over £100 and up to £30,000 | Consumer Credit Act 1974 |
- After 30 days, the seller can first repair or replace faulty goods. If that fails, you can ask for a price reduction or reject the goods.
- Exceptions to the 14-day right include personalised items, perishable goods and sealed hygiene items once unsealed.
- Debit card chargebacks are a card-scheme process, not a legal right, but card providers commonly use them.
- Flights departing the UK are covered by UK261.
Where to get help
- Put your complaint to the trader in writing.
- Use the trader's alternative dispute resolution scheme or ombudsman, if it has one.
- Get advice from the Citizens Advice consumer service.
- As a last resort, consider a small claim through the courts.
General information, not legal advice
This page summarises the main rules. Exceptions apply, and local or regional laws can add to them. For your specific situation, check the official sources below or get advice from a consumer organisation.
Guides for United Kingdom
Official sources
- Consumer advice
Citizens Advice · Accessed Oct 11, 2026
- Consumer Contracts (Information, Cancellation and Additional Charges) Regulations 2013
legislation.gov.uk · Accessed Oct 11, 2026
- Consumer Rights Act 2015
legislation.gov.uk · Accessed Oct 11, 2026
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