The Unsubscribe Act of 2025 is designed to make it much harder for companies to trap you in automatic renewal subscriptions and hidden billing schemes. Here's what it does in plain terms:

First, companies must be crystal clear about what they're charging you before they charge you anything. If a company offers a free trial or discounted introductory period that turns into paid service, they have to tell you upfront exactly how much you'll pay after the trial ends and what the full cost will be. They can't bury these details in fine print.

Second, companies must get your explicit permission before charging you for any automatic renewal or subscription. This means you have to actively agree to it—not just fail to unsubscribe. Pre-checked boxes and silence don't count as permission anymore. Companies must also keep records of your consent for three years.

Third, canceling subscriptions has to be easy. If you signed up online, you must be able to cancel online with a simple link or form. If you signed up by phone or mail, you can cancel the same way. Companies can't make you jump through hoops or call customer service to quit. Additionally, companies must send you reminders a few days before charging you again, with easy access to the cancellation option.

The Federal Trade Commission will enforce these rules and can penalize companies that violate them. States can also sue on behalf of their residents. The law takes effect one year after it's signed, giving companies time to update their systems.