10-Second Pre-Subscription Scan
Before you enter your payment details, run this checklist. Print it, bookmark it, or keep it in a tab.
| # | Check | Ctrl+F For | Green | Red |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Auto-renewal | automatically renew | Renewal reminder mentioned | No notice clause |
| 2 | Cancellation | cancel / cancellation | Online, same as sign-up | Phone or mail only |
| 3 | Refund policy | refund / non-refundable | Pro-rata or full refund offered | "No refunds" or "non-refundable" |
| 4 | Dispute window | error + days | 60 days or more | Under 30 days |
| 5 | Arbitration | arbitration | Not mentioned, or court available | + class action waiver |
| 6 | Error liability | liability + error | Full responsibility | "Not liable" or capped at fee |
| 7 | Price change | change + pricing | Requires consent or locked | "Any time" or "without notice" |
| 8 | Rounding | round + nearest | No rounding, or exact cent | Nearest $, direction unspecified |
| 9 | Governing law | governed by | Your state, or consumer except | Foreign state (e.g., Delaware) |
| 10 | Records clause | conclusive | Not mentioned | "Conclusive evidence" or "sole authority" |
Sample T&C Ratings
Case A — SaaS Platform
"All subscriptions automatically renew unless cancelled 30 days prior. Cancellation must be in writing via certified mail. No refunds for early termination. Company records of charges conclusive. Any dispute resolved by binding arbitration in Delaware. You waive class action rights."
Flags: 6 (auto-renewal strict, mail-only cancel, no refund, conclusive records, arbitration + class waiver, remote forum)
Grade: F — Do not subscribe under any circumstances.
Case B — Payment App
"Your card will be charged automatically each month. If we overcharge, we issue a credit. If we undercharge, we bill the difference. Fees may be rounded."
Flags: 3 (overcharge → credit, undercharge → billed, rounding unspecified)
Grade: D — Asymmetric error handling is dangerous.
Case C — Web Hosting
"Cancel anytime in your dashboard. Prepaid fees refunded pro-rata. Billing errors reported within 90 days. Governed by Texas law."
Flags: 1 (forum possibly remote)
Grade: B — Good, check if Texas is your state.
Case D — Streaming Service
"Monthly subscription. Cancel anytime. Access continues to end of period. Refunds for partial months: no. Disputes: small claims court in your county."
Flags: 0 (no pro-rata for partial months is minor, clearly disclosed)
Grade: A — Consumer-friendly.
Quick Rating Scale
| Flags Found | Rating | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 0-2 | Green | Acceptable |
| 3-4 | Yellow | Proceed with caution |
| 5-7 | Orange | High risk |
| 8-10 | Red | Do not subscribe |