Consumer cooling-off period does not always apply

“By and far the most frequently asked consumer question is about how long someone has to cancel a contract,” said Patricia Watson, director of the county’s Department of Consumer Affairs. “Many people incorrectly believe that after they sign any contract, they have up to three days to cancel that contract. In most consumer-related situations, you do not have the option to cancel a contract after you have signed on the dotted line.” 

 

A three-day rescission, or a “cooling off” period, does apply if a contract or agreement is signed in your home. These include home improvement contracts or a contract signed at a temporary business location, such as a trade show or fair.