April 21, 2026, 10:31 am | Read time: 2 minutes
New rules for credit agreements are set to play a larger role in online shopping. This particularly affects cases where payment is not made immediately but at a later time. The legislature aims to address these situations in the future.
Credit agreements should be easier to complete digitally. In the future, a simple written form will suffice. This means a declaration recorded in writing, such as via email, SMS, or an online form. A handwritten signature would no longer be necessary. This is especially relevant for online shopping.
Online Shopping Gains More Focus
Particularly important are “Buy now, pay later” offers. Here, the goods are handed over immediately, but payment is made at a later date. Future models should more clearly fall under credit rules and thus be more strictly regulated.
Additionally, small loans up to 200 euros, interest-free and fee-free loans, as well as loans with a term of up to three months, should be included in the protection rules. This aims to protect consumers from poor decisions and over-indebtedness. The law also implements EU regulations in Germany.
More Requirements for Lenders
Further rules are also planned for providers. They should provide more comprehensive information to consumers. A right of withdrawal is also planned. Under certain conditions, consumers could then withdraw from a contract. The creditworthiness assessment will also be tightened. Clear limits on withdrawal will apply for incorrect information. Additionally, excessive credit interest rates will be more strictly regulated by law. The goal is a higher level of protection for consumer credit.
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The basis for the changes is a law passed by the Bundestag. It stipulates that stricter requirements will apply to consumer credit in many areas in the future. This is intended to better protect consumers and more tightly bind providers. Exception: Debit cards with deferred payment will not fall under the new rules.