What is the fine for Virginia drip pricing / junk fees?
Quick answer
Customers can recover actual damages or $500, whichever is greater, or up to three times damages or $1,000 if the violation is willful (Va. Code 59.1-204(A)). The state can seek a civil penalty of up to $2,500 per willful violation (59.1-206(A)). Since July 1, 2025, advertised prices must include all mandatory fees (59.1-608); violations are prohibited practices under the Virginia Consumer Protection Act (59.1-610).
Key facts and official sources
| Item | What the law says | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Law | Va. Code 59.1-607 to 59.1-610 (2025 Acts cc. 685, 686) | Official source |
| Effective | July 1, 2025 | Official source |
| Rule | Advertised, displayed or offered prices must include all mandatory fees or surcharges | Official source |
| Enforcement | A prohibited practice under the Virginia Consumer Protection Act (59.1-610) | Official source |
| Private damages | Actual damages or $500 (willful: up to 3x or $1,000) under 59.1-204(A) | Official source |
| State civil penalty | Up to $2,500 per willful violation (59.1-206(A)) | Official source |
| Last verified | October 18, 2026 | Astor Ventures |
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FAQ
Do restaurants have a special rule?
Restaurants and hotels may add an automatic mandatory gratuity if they clearly disclose its percentage with the price (59.1-608(C)).
Are taxes and shipping mandatory fees?
No. Government taxes/fees and reasonable postage or shipping are excluded from "mandatory fees or surcharges" (59.1-607).
Is this the same as the Virginia click-to-cancel fine?
Same VCPA dollar amounts, different chapter. Junk fees are chapter 58; auto-renewal click-to-cancel is chapter 17.8.
Is this legal advice?
No. General information only.
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