FTC Targets Hidden Fees in Your Next Uber Eats Order
Published Date: 4/16/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The FTC is looking into unfair or sneaky fees charged by online food delivery apps and wants your thoughts by May 18, 2026. This rule could make fees clearer and fairer for everyone ordering food or groceries online, helping customers avoid surprise charges. If you use or run these apps, get ready for changes that could save you money and stress!
Analyzed Economic Effects
6 provisions identified: 6 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Upfront Total-Price Disclosure
The FTC is considering a rule that would require online food and grocery delivery platforms to clearly and conspicuously disclose the total price for a delivery or pickup order upfront, including any mandatory fees (other than government charges and shipping). This would mean platforms must show the full amount a consumer must pay before checkout so consumers can comparison-shop without surprise charges.
Clear Tip and Fee Recipient Disclosure
The FTC is asking whether a rule should require platforms to disclose the nature, purpose, amount, refundability, and recipient of any fees, including optional charges such as tips. That would include clear statements about whether tips go to delivery workers or are used for other purposes.
Ban on Misleading 'Free' Delivery Claims
The FTC proposes to address practices that misrepresent whether fees are mandatory or optional and to stop advertising like ‘free delivery’ when non-optional service or small-order fees still apply. Platforms could be required to stop misrepresenting the existence or amount of mandatory charges.
Enforcement: Civil Penalties and Redress
The FTC says a rule could permit it to seek civil penalties against violators and enable more ready consumer redress (including under section 19(a)(1) of the FTC Act). The Commission notes this authority could deter unlawful fee practices and provide remedies to injured consumers.
Disclosure for Variable Fees
The FTC may require platforms to disclose the factors that determine variable fees (for example, distance, time, order size) and to tell consumers that the total price may vary based on selections. Platforms that charge fees that depend on consumer selections would need to make those factors clear.
Uniform Fee Rules Across States
The FTC proposes that a national rule could provide regulatory certainty across States and localities and level the playing field among online food delivery platforms by setting consistent disclosure requirements. The Commission cites many State laws that already require total-price disclosures and tailored rules for delivery platforms.
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Key Dates
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