The Cancellation Case
In December 2023, New York Attorney General Letitia James sued SiriusXM, alleging it made canceling a subscription deliberately difficult — forcing subscribers to reach an agent (rather than cancel online) and putting them through a lengthy, scripted retention process designed to talk them out of leaving. The suit alleged fraud, deceptive practices and a violation of the federal Restore Online Shoppers’ Confidence Act (ROSCA).
In November 2024, a New York court found SiriusXM liable, a notable ruling in the growing body of law targeting “click to subscribe, call to cancel” friction.
The Other Claims
SiriusXM separately agreed to a $28 million settlement over unwanted robocalls, with eligible class members able to claim payments. It has also faced class actions over pricing — particularly a “Music Royalty Fee” that plaintiffs say is tacked on so the advertised price understates the real cost. These are different theories (telemarketing, pricing transparency) against the same company.
As with subscription-cancellation cases generally, the through-line is that the friction and the fees were the point, not an accident.
What Subscribers Should Know
Federal and a growing number of state laws now require that if you can subscribe online, you can cancel online. If a company routes you into a retention script, you can insist on canceling and document the date and time. Keep records; that is what turns a frustrating cancellation into an enforceable complaint.
Before You Act
Thinking About Filing a Claim?
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SiriusXM Lawsuit: The Hard-to-Cancel Subscription Claims: Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most common questions about this case and your legal options.
What is the SiriusXM lawsuit about?
New York's attorney general alleged SiriusXM made cancellation deliberately hard, requiring agent calls and scripted retention pitches, in violation of consumer-protection law. A court found the company liable in November 2024.
Did SiriusXM settle any claims?
Yes, separately it agreed to a $28 million settlement over unwanted robocalls, and it faces pricing suits over its 'Music Royalty Fee.'
Can a company force me to call to cancel?
Increasingly no. Federal and state 'click to cancel' rules require that if you subscribed online you can cancel online. Document any cancellation attempt.
Legal Disclaimer
This article is general legal information, not legal advice, and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Case status, eligibility criteria, and any amounts described are as reported at the date shown and may change. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction about your own situation.