What is the penalty for breaking Virginia's auto-renewal law?
Quick answer
Customers can recover their actual damages or $500, whichever is greater, rising to three times damages or $1,000 for willful violations (Va. Code 59.1-204(A)), and the state can seek a civil penalty of up to $2,500 per willful violation (59.1-206(A)). The amended auto-renewal rules in Va. Code 59.1-207.46 apply from July 1, 2026.
Key facts and official sources
| Item | What the law says | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Law | Va. Code 59.1-207.45 to 59.1-207.49 (2026 Acts chs. 931, 932) | Official source |
| Effective | July 1, 2026 | Official source |
| Private damages | Actual damages or $500, whichever is greater; willful: up to 3x damages or $1,000 | Official source |
| Civil penalty | Willful violations: up to $2,500 per violation | Official source |
| Core duties | Clear terms before consent, affirmative consent, an acknowledgment the customer can keep, cancellation as easy as sign-up | Official source |
| Last verified | October 15, 2026 | Astor Ventures |
Want it done in an afternoon? The Virginia auto-renewal & cancellation kit turns these rules into fill-in templates, a checklist and a tracker, with the official sources quoted. One-time payment, instant download.
FAQ
Can a Virginia customer sue over a hard-to-cancel subscription?
Yes. A violation is enforceable under the Virginia Consumer Protection Act, which lets customers recover actual damages or $500, more if willful (59.1-204).
What must a Virginia subscription sign-up show?
The automatic renewal terms clearly before consent, then affirmative consent and an acknowledgment that explains how to cancel (59.1-207.46).
Is this legal advice?
No. General information only.
Related guides
← Virginia auto-renewal & cancellation kit · All guides · All kits