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Withdrawal-from-Contract Button: What Awaits E-shops in 2026

Jiří Hradský 15. 4. 2026

Tlačítko pro odstoupení od smlouvy_Co čeká e-shopy v 2026

Every e-shop operator that sells to consumers is likely to face a new obligation as early as summer 2026: placing a functional button for withdrawal from a contract directly into its online interface. The penalty for failing to do so can reach up to CZK 5,000,000. And no, having a PDF form somewhere in the footer is not enough.

What is the “button amendment 2.0” and why was it introduced?

Do you remember the obligation to label the order button with the text “Order with obligation to pay”? That was the first button amendment. Now comes its direct sequel.

The parliamentary bill introduces a mandatory button for withdrawal from a contract directly in the e-shop’s customer interface. The logic is simple: if a customer can conclude a contract with a single click, withdrawing from it should be just as easy.

The law thus responds to a long-criticized practice whereby merchants formally respect the statutory 14-day period but hide the withdrawal forms in forgotten sections of the website, in PDF attachments, or in customer support, which few people can reach quickly and without frustration.

💡 Hidden withdrawal is not the only problem. Do you operate an e-shop or an online platform and are unsure whether your terms and conditions comply with current consumer law? We will check it for you.

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What exactly does the law require?

Let us go through the four specific requirements that the bill establishes:

  1. A clearly labeled button - text, not an icon

The button must be labeled with text: for example, “Withdraw from contract” or “Withdraw here”. A mere arrow or cross icon is not enough.

  1. Permanent visibility throughout the entire 14-day period

The button must be continuously available throughout the entire statutory withdrawal period, that is, typically 14 days from receipt of the goods or conclusion of the service contract. The logical place: the order detail or the customer account. Alternatively, the website footer or another visible location.

  1. A two-phase process - click, identification, confirmation

It is not just one button and done. The law establishes a two-phase procedure: the customer clicks, fills in identification data, and knowingly confirms the withdrawal. This protects both parties - the customer against unintentional withdrawal, and the merchant against disputes over whether it even occurred.

  1. Automatic confirmation for the customer

Immediately after completing the process, the customer must receive a confirmation, by e-mail or by notification in the customer account.

Who will the obligation affect?

The law applies to all online sellers that conclude contracts with consumers over the internet. That means practically every e-shop selling goods or digital services. The bill currently contains no exemption for small operators.

By when do you need to be ready?

The planned effective date of the amendment is 19 June 2026.

We must, however, say openly: the bill is currently after its first reading, and further deliberation is scheduled for the end of April 2026. Parliament is currently dealing with a number of other priorities, so there is no guarantee that the law will be adopted and promulgated in time for June.

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Why is a lawyer alone not enough, and why is a developer alone not enough?

This is where companies most often underestimate the scope of work.

The legal side of the matter includes the correct wording of the button and form, the compliance of the entire process with Act No. 634/1992 Coll., on Consumer Protection, and with the Civil Code, the updating of the terms and conditions, and the drafting of confirmation e-mails.

The technical side of the matter includes adapting the customer interface (UX/UI), programming the two-phase process, connecting it to the notification system, and ensuring reliable operation throughout the entire statutory period.

You need both. And ideally at the same time, not first one side and then the other, because the result then does not hold together.

💡 Are you preparing your e-shop for compliance with the new obligations and need legally correct documentation as well as process setup? We will help you with terms and conditions, the withdrawal-from-contract form, and an overall legal audit of your online sales.

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What do you risk if you fail to comply?

The penalty for a breach can reach up to CZK 5,000,000. Bear in mind that the Czech Trade Inspection Authority (ČOI) tests e-shops actively and systematically, not only on the basis of customer complaints.

In addition to the penalty, there is also a risk of lawsuits with affected consumers, who may invoke the invalidity of the entire withdrawal process and the resulting claims.

Frequently asked questions

We answer the most common questions about the new withdrawal button in e-shops, which is to be mandatory for online sellers concluding contracts with consumers.

1
Do I need the button even if I run a small e-shop?
The current wording of the proposal does not contain any exemption for small operators. The obligation should apply to all online sellers concluding contracts with consumers.
2
Is it enough if I have a withdrawal form available as a PDF download?
No. The act expressly requires a functional button directly in the online interface, available to the customer throughout the entire period, without the need to download anything external.
3
What if the act does not pass by 19 June 2026?
Then the obligation will not take effect on that date. However, the act is likely to pass in the near future, and preparing now is significantly cheaper than implementing it in a rush or paying a fine.
4
Do I have to change my terms and conditions?
Most likely yes. The withdrawal procedure described in the terms and conditions will have to correspond to the new technical reality.

Do you need help getting ready?

At SEDLAKOVA LEGAL, we specialize in the legal setup of e-shops and online platforms - from terms and conditions and consumer documentation through GDPR compliance to representation in proceedings before the Czech Trade Inspection Authority (ČOI).

Get in touch with us before June catches you off guard. We will be glad to prepare what you need - legally correctly and in cooperation with your IT team or your e-shop solution provider.

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