Techniques for WCAG 2.0

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# G164: Providing a stated period of time after submission of the form when the order can be updated or canceled by the user

## Applicability

All technologies that provide forms.

This technique relates to:

- Success Criterion 3.3.4 (Error Prevention (Legal, Financial, Data))
  - How to Meet 3.3.4 (Error Prevention (Legal, Financial, Data))
  - Understanding Success Criterion 3.3.4 (Error Prevention (Legal, Financial, Data))
- Success Criterion 3.3.6 (Error Prevention (All))
  - How to Meet 3.3.6 (Error Prevention (All))
  - Understanding Success Criterion 3.3.6 (Error Prevention (All))

## Description

The objective of this technique is to allow users to recover from errors made when placing an order by providing them with a period of time during which they can cancel or change the order. In general, a contract or an order is a legal commitment and cannot be canceled. However, a Web site may choose to offer this capability, and it provides a way for users to recover from errors.

The Web content would need to tell the user how long the cancellation period is after submitting the form and what the procedure would be to cancel the order. The cancellation procedure may not be possible online. It may, for instance, require written notice be sent to a address listed on the Web page.

## Examples

### Example 1: Online shopping

An online shopping Web site lets users cancel purchases up to 24 hours after they have been made. The Web site explains their policy, and includes a summary of the policy on the purchase receipt emailed to the user. After 24 hours, the purchase will be shipped to the user and can no longer be canceled.

### Example 2: Custom orders

A Web site sells custom sports jackets that are made to order. The customer chooses the fabric and provides body measurements for the tailor. The Web site gives customers up to three days to change or cancel an order. Once the material has been cut to the customer's specifications, it is no longer possible to change or cancel the order. The company policy is described on its Web site.

## Related Techniques

- G98: Providing the ability for the user to review and correct answers before submitting
- G155: Providing a checkbox in addition to a submit button
- G168: Requesting confirmation to continue with selected action

## Tests

### Procedure

1. Check that the Web page describes the time period to cancel or change an order.

2. Check that the Web page describes the process for canceling or changing an order.

### Expected Results

- Checks #1 and #2 are true.

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