Refund an Online Course or Coaching Program

Online courses and coaching programs promise transformation, but sometimes they fall short. If you've invested in a program that didn't deliver on its promises or was misrepresented, you have rights. Don't let providers tell you otherwise, you can get your money back.

Reviewed by Corey Musa, Founder·Last reviewed June 2026·LinkedIn

Skip the writing, get your claim in 15 seconds.

We'll draft a firm, ready-to-send demand tailored to your situation. Free.

Build my claim →

Your rights

Under the UK Consumer Rights Act 2015, services, including online courses and coaching programs, must be performed with reasonable care and skill. If the program was not as described, not fit for purpose, or the service provided was substandard, you are entitled to a repeat performance or a price reduction, which can include a full refund. Additionally, under the Consumer Contracts (Information, Cancellation and Additional Charges) Regulations 2013, you generally have a 14-day cooling-off period to cancel distance purchases. However, this right can be lost for digital content if you explicitly agreed to immediate access and acknowledged waiving your cancellation rights, or for services once fully performed.

Step by step

1Review the provider's terms and conditions and your purchase agreement. Note any clauses about refunds, but remember these cannot override your statutory rights.
2Gather evidence. This includes screenshots of misleading marketing, course outlines, communication with the provider, and specific examples of how the course or coaching failed to deliver as promised.
3Contact the provider directly, clearly stating your reasons for the refund request. Cite the relevant consumer rights, explaining how the service failed to meet the 'reasonable care and skill' standard or was not as described.
4If the provider refuses, consider escalating your claim. This could involve a chargeback through your bank if you paid by card, or pursuing a claim through the Small Claims Court if the amount is significant.

What they'll say, and your comeback

“You agreed to our 'no refunds' policy in the terms and conditions.”

Comeback, Your terms and conditions cannot override my statutory rights under the Consumer Rights Act 2015. The service provided was not as described or delivered with reasonable care and skill.

“You've accessed the course content, so you're not eligible for a refund.”

Comeback, Accessing the content does not negate my right to a refund if the program was misrepresented or failed to meet the promised standards. My claim is based on the quality and description of the service, not just access.

“It's digital content, all sales are final.”

Comeback, Digital content and services are fully covered by consumer protection laws. If the product is faulty, not as described, or the service was not provided with reasonable care, I have rights regardless of the format.

FAQ

What if I signed a 'no refund' agreement?

While you may have agreed to a 'no refund' clause, your statutory rights under the Consumer Rights Act 2015 often override such terms if the service was faulty, not as described, or not delivered with reasonable care and skill. Contractual terms cannot remove your basic consumer rights.

How long do I have to claim a refund?

For a cooling-off period, you generally have 14 days from purchase (unless explicitly waived for digital content). For claims based on faulty service or misrepresentation, you have up to six years in the UK from the date of breach of contract under the Limitation Act 1980, though it's always best to act as soon as possible.

Ready to get your money back?

Reclaim it now, free →

More money you might be owed

A self-serve tool, not a law firm. General information, not legal advice.