FTC DROPS THE HAMMER: No More Hidden Fees for Tickets & Rentals Starting May 12
The Price You See Is FINALLY The Price You Pay
Buckle up, America – the days of getting ambushed by hidden fees at checkout are OVER. The FTC just unleashed its “Rule on Unfair or Deceptive Fees,” and starting May 12, businesses playing pricing games will face the consequences.
“This is the consumer protection equivalent of a knockout punch. We’re putting bait-and-switch pricing on permanent notice.”
FTC Spokesperson
Who This Affects (And Who’s Already Adapting)
This rule changes everything for:
- 🎟️ Ticket sellers (Live Nation, Ticketmaster, StubHub)
- 🏨 Short-term rentals (Airbnb, VRBO, Booking.com)
- 🛏️ Hotels & motels (Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt)
- ✈️ Third-party platforms & travel agents
Pro tip: Airbnb’s already ahead of the game – they’ve updated their platform to show total prices upfront. Other companies scrambling to comply have exactly 7 days to get their act together.
The Fine Print That Could Save You Hundreds
Here’s what businesses must disclose clearly before you pay:
✅ Allowed exclusions: Government taxes, shipping fees, truly optional add-ons
❌ Banned tricks: “Handling fees,” last-minute service charges, phantom “convenience” fees
Warning: If a company tries to sneak in excluded charges, they MUST tell you exactly what they are and why they’re not included in the advertised price.
Why This Is a Game-Changer
This isn’t just policy – it’s payback for years of consumers getting nickel-and-dimed. The FTC first dropped this bombshell in December 2024, and now the rubber meets the road.
Imagine booking concert tickets or a beach rental without that gut-punch moment when the final total appears. That reality starts May 12.
