Complete Guide

Cancellation Fees: What is Legal in Your State?

Dealers often charge illegal "admin fees" of $100 or more. See the legal caps in Texas ($50), California ($0), and other states.

5 min readUpdated January 2026

Key Takeaways

Ready to take action?

identified as cancellable in your contract

State Fee Limits

Many states protect consumers from junk fees on refunds.

StateMax Fee
California$0 (if < 60 days) or $25 (or 10%)
Texas$50
Wisconsin$0 (Strict prohibition)
Florida5% or $50
New York$50

If a dealer charges you $100 in Texas, they owe you a $50 refund plus potential penalties.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I get the fee back if I cancel within the "Free Look" period?

Yes. In almost all states, if you cancel within the first 30-60 days (the Free Look period), you get a 100% refund with NO fees deducted.

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Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about consumer protection rights and is intended for educational purposes only. It is not legal advice. Laws vary by state and individual circumstances differ. Consult a licensed attorney for advice specific to your situation.

Last updated: 2026-01-24.