Massachusetts Moves to Drop "Junk Fees"

Massachusetts is saying no to so-called junk fees. Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell announced new regulations to stop "junk fees" and help people understand the full cost of products and services upfront. These rules aim to prevent hidden charges and make it easier to cancel unwanted trial and subscription costs. AARP backed the Attorney General’s new regulations.

At a news conference Monday, AG Campbell explained that many people have faced unexpected fees when booking hotels, buying concert tickets, or paying for services. The new regulations will change that.

“These regulations seek to keep more money in residents’ pockets by combatting these unnecessary fees and ensuring consumers understand exactly how much and what they are paying for.” said Attorney General Andrea Campbell.

Jen Benson, AARP Massachusetts State Director, praised the regulations, stating, "Massachusetts already has some of the strongest consumer protection laws in the country, this adds more protection to the Commonwealth’s consumers. 85% of Americans have experienced a hidden or unexpected fee for a service in the previous two years but they hit those on fixed and modest incomes, like most older adults, even harder."

The regulations require businesses to clearly show the total price, including any mandatory fees, before asking for personal information.
They must also explain any optional or waivable charges and how to avoid them.

For trial offers, businesses must disclose any potential charges, how
to cancel, and important dates to avoid fees. For subscriptions, they must explain recurring charges, how to cancel, and provide advance notice of renewals and charges.

These rules, effective September 2, 2025, aim to make prices more transparent and help consumers avoid unnecessary costs.

If you believe you've been unfairly charged, you can file a complaint or call the Attorney General’s Consumer Hotline at 617-727-8400.