This clause removes your right to sue Patreon in a traditional court and prevents you from joining other users in a collective legal action, which significantly limits your legal options.
Consumer impact
Patreon's terms significantly affect users' legal rights by requiring mandatory arbitration and waiving the right to join class action lawsuits, which limits how disputes can be resolved. Creators grant Patreon a broad, royalty-free license to use their content, and are solely responsible for paying taxes on their earnings. You can opt out of the arbitration clause by sending a written notice to Patreon within 30 days of first agreeing to the terms.
What you can do
⚠️ These actions may provide transparency or partial mitigation but may not fully address the underlying issue. Effectiveness varies by jurisdiction and individual circumstances.
Opt Out of Arbitration
Within 30 days
Within 30 days of first accepting Patreon's Terms of Use, send a written email to legal@patreon.com stating that you are opting out of the arbitration agreement. Include your full name and account email address.
Applicable agencies
FTC
The FTC has authority over unfair or deceptive consumer contract practices, including mandatory arbitration clauses in consumer-facing terms of service.
State attorneys general, particularly in California, have authority to challenge class action waivers and arbitration clauses under state consumer protection laws.