switch­ing charge

The Data Act includes rules on switching charges, which are the charges that are imposed on users switching to a different provider. These charges will gradually be withdrawn:

• In the transitional period from 11 January 2024 to 11 January 2027, providers may only charge actual, direct costs.
• From 12 January 2027, no switching charges at all may be imposed.

Before entering into a contract, providers are required by the Data Act to give prospective customers clear information about the standard service fees for operation of a service and the reasonable compensation for early termination that may be imposed and about the reduced switching charges applicable during the transitional period from 11 January 2024 to 12 January 2027.