Exactly how to cancel any free trial before it converts to a paid subscription — and what to do if you get charged anyway. This guide applies specifically to Microsoft 365 ($6.99-$12.99/mo) subscribers in Minnesota, citing applicable state and federal law.
Minnesota's Automatic Renewal Law (Minn. Stat. § 325G.201) gives you specific protections when dealing with Microsoft 365 subscriptions:
Penalties: Private right of action plus AG enforcement
Applied to Microsoft 365 (Microsoft account website) in Minnesota
Set a reminder 2 days before the trial ends
The moment you sign up for a free trial, set a calendar reminder for 2 days before it ends. This gives you a buffer in case the cancellation process takes time to process.
Minnesota note: Minn. Stat. § 325G.201 requires Microsoft 365 to provide an easy cancellation mechanism.
Find the trial end date
Check your signup confirmation email for the exact trial end date. Log into your account → Billing to see the next charge date. Mark it explicitly.
Cancel through the same channel you signed up
Under the FTC Click-to-Cancel Rule, you must be able to cancel the same way you signed up. If you signed up online, they must let you cancel online.
Screenshot your cancellation confirmation
After canceling, take a screenshot of the confirmation page. Save the confirmation email. This is your proof if they charge you after the trial.
Verify no charge on your next statement
Check your bank or card statement after the trial end date. If charged, cite ROSCA (15 USC § 8403) and request an immediate refund — unclear trial terms are illegal.
Method: Microsoft account website · Difficulty: medium
Microsoft 365-specific tips
Full refund within 30 days of renewal. Prorated after.
Under Minn. Stat. § 325G.201, you may be entitled to a full refund if Microsoft 365 didn't properly disclose auto-renewal terms at signup.
These apply to Microsoft 365 in every state, including Minnesota:
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