Cancel SolidWorks: The Right Way

How to cancel Solidworks and protect your refund rights in canada

What is Solidworks and why you might want to cancel

Solidworks is a professional 3D computer-aided design (CAD) software platform created by Dassault Systèmes that helps engineers, product designers and manufacturers model, simulate and visualize complex designs. You can purchase Solidworks as an annual subscription, quarterly term, monthly plan or perpetual license through authorized resellers across Canada. The software is powerful, but it's also expensive, and if it no longer serves your workflow or budget, you have the right to cancel.

Whether you're switching to a more affordable alternative, completing a short-term project or downsizing your software stack, cancelling Solidworks should be straightforward. Many users encounter barriers during cancellation or miss critical refund windows. This is where Tocancel steps in: we guide you through each step, explain your legal rights and help you recover your money if you're eligible. You deserve clarity and action, not frustration.

Common reasons to cancel Solidworks

You may be ready to cancel if you work primarily in 2D design instead of 3D modelling, you've found a lower-cost CAD alternative, your organization has shifted platforms, or you no longer need regular software updates. Some subscribers cancel because their subscription auto-renewed without clear notice, or they purchased a longer term than they actually needed. Whatever your reason, Tocancel recognizes that your decision is valid, and your right to exit is protected by Canadian consumer law.

Why the refund window is critical

Solidworks offers a 15-day refund window for new annual and quarterly subscriptions purchased directly or through most authorized resellers. This window begins on your original purchase date. Once those 15 days pass, your refund eligibility typically expires. This timing is not negotiable, which is why acting fast matters.

Understand your consumer rights before cancelling

Canadian consumer protection law is your strongest lever when disputing unfair billing or cancellation barriers.

Your legal position under canadian consumer law

Every Canadian province enforces consumer protection legislation that requires vendors to honour cancellation requests and respect published refund policies. Under federal and provincial law, you have the explicit right to cancel a subscription before auto-renewal occurs. Vendors must make cancellation at least as easy as signup, which means burying a cancellation button or forcing you through multiple steps is potentially illegal.

The Competition Act (federal) and provincial consumer protection acts also prohibit unfair or deceptive practices. If Solidworks or an authorized reseller makes cancellation deliberately difficult, refuses a valid refund request, or hides their cancellation process, you can file a complaint with your provincial consumer protection authority. This is a concrete escalation path, and companies know it.

Document everything immediately

Save your original purchase receipt, order date, account number and all email correspondence with Solidworks or the reseller. Screenshot your subscription terms, any marketing materials that promised a refund, and confirmation emails. Keep records of login credentials and your 3DEXPERIENCE platform account details. This documentation is your shield if you need to dispute a charge, request a chargeback from your credit card company or escalate to a consumer protection authority. Tocancel recommends creating a dedicated folder on your computer for all cancellation-related documents.

How to cancel Solidworks through your account

Most Canadian users purchase Solidworks through the 3DEXPERIENCE platform (3ds.com) or an authorized reseller, making web-based cancellation the primary method.

Cancel directly through 3DEXPERIENCE

1. Sign in to your 3DEXPERIENCE account at 3ds.com using your username and password.
   • If you've forgotten your login, click "Forgot password" on the login screen and follow the email recovery instructions.
   • If you created your account through an authorized reseller, log in with those credentials.
2. Navigate to "My Account" or "Subscriptions" from the main menu (the exact label may vary depending on recent platform updates).
   • Look for a gear icon, account name dropdown or "Manage Account" link in the top navigation.
3. Locate your active Solidworks subscription in the subscriptions list and click on it.
   • The subscription status should display as "Active" or "Current".
4. Click "Cancel Subscription" or "Unsubscribe" (button wording may vary).
   • Read the cancellation confirmation carefully to understand any penalties or loss of access dates.
5. Confirm your cancellation request when prompted.
   • You should receive an immediate on-screen confirmation message.
6. Check your email inbox (including spam and promotions folders) for a cancellation confirmation email from Dassault Systèmes.
   • This email is your proof of cancellation and should include your cancellation date and any refund details.
   • Forward this confirmation to Tocancel if you need help verifying its contents.

Completing these steps within 15 days of your original purchase date is essential if you want to qualify for a refund. Your cancellation is not final until you receive the confirmation email.

Cancel through an authorized reseller

1. Identify the reseller where you originally purchased your Solidworks subscription.
   • Check your original invoice or confirmation email for the reseller's name and contact details.
2. Contact the reseller's customer support team by phone, email or live chat using the contact information on their website.
   • Inform them you want to cancel your Solidworks subscription within the 15-day refund window.
   • Provide your order number, account email and original purchase date.
3. Request written confirmation of your cancellation request via email.
   • Do not rely on verbal confirmation alone; ask the reseller to send a confirmation email that you can save and reference later.
4. Allow 3 to 5 business days for the reseller to process your cancellation.
   • The reseller may need to coordinate with Dassault Systèmes to finalize the cancellation on your 3DEXPERIENCE account.
5. Verify that your Solidworks subscription no longer appears as "Active" in your 3DEXPERIENCE account.
   • Log back into 3DEXPERIENCE and check the "Subscriptions" section to confirm the change.

If you purchased through a reseller, that reseller is your primary point of contact for cancellation and refunds, not Dassault Systèmes directly. Tocancel advises keeping detailed notes of every conversation with the reseller.

Solidworks pricing and subscription options in canada

Understanding what you're paying helps clarify whether cancellation makes financial sense and what refund you can expect.

Prices vary by region, reseller and your organization's licensing agreement. Contact your reseller or Tocancel to confirm exact pricing for your subscription type.

Your refund timeline and what to expect

Timing your refund correctly ensures you recover your money before the window closes.

The 15-day refund window explained

The 15-day refund window begins on your original purchase date, not on the date you first use the software or create your account. If you purchase a Solidworks subscription on January 1st, your refund-eligible period ends on January 15th at 11:59 PM. After that deadline, Dassault Systèmes is no longer obligated to refund your full purchase price, although you may still have cancellation rights (meaning you stop paying for future renewals). This distinction is crucial: you can cancel anytime, but you can only refund within 15 days.

Processing your refund after cancellation

1. Submit your cancellation request within the 15-day window (as outlined above).
   • Save the timestamp or confirmation of when you submitted the request.
2. Receive your cancellation confirmation email from Dassault Systèmes or the reseller.
   • This email should state your refund eligibility and expected processing time.
3. Wait for the refund to process (typically 5 to 14 business days).
   • The refund will be issued to your original payment method (credit card, bank account or other payment source).
   • Your bank or credit card company may require an additional 2 to 5 business days to deposit the funds.
4. Verify the refund appeared in your account.
   • Check your credit card statement or bank account online; refunds may appear as negative charges or credits.
5. If you do not see the refund after 21 days, contact the reseller or Dassault Systèmes immediately with your cancellation confirmation email and order number.
   • Request a refund status check and ask for a detailed timeline of when the refund will appear.

If the reseller or Dassault Systèmes refuses to refund you within 15 days of purchase, that may be a violation of your consumer rights. Document the refusal and escalate to your provincial consumer protection authority or Tocancel.

What happens to your data and access after cancellation

Knowing what you lose helps you prepare for life after Solidworks.

Access and data after you cancel

Once your Solidworks subscription is cancelled and the cancellation is processed, your access to the software and the 3DEXPERIENCE platform will end on your subscription end date. You will no longer be able to log in, open projects or download updates. Any files stored in the cloud through your 3DEXPERIENCE account may become inaccessible, depending on your storage plan and the platform's data retention policy.

Before your cancellation takes effect, download all your project files, designs and data in a compatible format (such as PDF, STEP or IGES files) to your local computer. Export any notes, comments or metadata you want to preserve. Tocancel recommends completing this backup at least one week before your cancellation date.

Transitioning to an alternative CAD platform

If you're moving to another CAD tool, prepare your file conversions now. Most CAD software can import STEP, IGES or DWG files exported from Solidworks, but compatibility is not guaranteed. Test your file exports in your new platform before cancelling to ensure your workflow will not be disrupted. This step prevents data loss and eases your transition.

Common cancellation mistakes to avoid

Cancelling Solidworks is simple in theory, but a few critical errors can cost you money or access.

Mistake 1: missing the 15-day refund window

This is the most expensive mistake you can make. If you do not submit your cancellation within 15 days of purchase, you forfeit your refund eligibility entirely. Many users delay cancellation thinking they have more time, only to realize the window has closed. Mark your calendar on day 1, set a phone reminder and submit your cancellation request at least 2 days before the deadline to account for any processing delays.

Mistake 2: assuming auto-renewal has stopped

Cancelling your subscription does not prevent future billing if your account is set to auto-renew. After you cancel, log back into your 3DEXPERIENCE account and verify that auto-renewal is explicitly turned off. Look for a toggle or checkbox labeled "Auto-renew" and confirm it is disabled. Take a screenshot of this setting for your records. Some users have been charged renewal fees even after submitting a cancellation request because auto-renewal was never disabled.

Mistake 3: cancelling through the wrong channel

If you purchased through an authorized reseller, do not contact Dassault Systèmes directly for cancellation. Contact the reseller first. Conversely, if you purchased directly through 3DEXPERIENCE, do not email a reseller for support. Using the wrong channel delays your cancellation and may cause confusion about who is responsible for processing your refund. Always refer to your original invoice to identify your point of purchase.

Mistake 4: not documenting your cancellation

Do not rely on memory or a single email confirmation. Save every confirmation message, take screenshots of your cancellation request and your account status, and write down the date and time you submitted your cancellation. If a dispute arises, Tocancel will help you present this documentation to prove your actions were timely and valid.

Mistake 5: proceeding without a backup of your files

Your files become inaccessible once your subscription ends. If you have not exported your designs, you may lose access to months or years of work. Before you cancel, spend at least 2 hours exporting your entire project library to your local computer or an external drive. This step is non-negotiable.

Escalation: what to do if Solidworks refuses to cancel or refund

Dassault Systèmes should honour your cancellation and refund request without resistance, but if they do not, you have legal remedies.

Step 1: request written clarification

If Dassault Systèmes or a reseller denies your refund or cancellation, ask them to provide a written explanation in plain language. Request the specific clause in your subscription agreement that justifies their refusal. Many companies back down when forced to justify their position in writing.

Step 2: file a complaint with your provincial consumer protection authority

Every Canadian province has a consumer protection office (such as the Consumer Protection Act authority in Ontario, or the Office of the Registrar of Imported Vehicles and Consumer Protection in British Columbia). File a formal complaint describing your cancellation request, the refusal, your documentation and the financial harm. Your provincial authority has the power to investigate and order restitution. Tocancel can help you draft this complaint and identify the correct authority in your province.

Step 3: request a chargeback from your credit card company

If you paid with a credit card, contact your card issuer and request a chargeback. Explain that you cancelled within the eligible window and Dassault Systèmes refused to refund. Provide your cancellation confirmation, the original charge and any written refusal from the company. Your bank will investigate and may reverse the charge on your behalf. This is a legitimate consumer protection tool.

Step 4: consider small claims court

If your refund amount is under your provincial small claims court limit (typically $25,000 in Ontario), you can file a small claims action against the reseller or Dassault Systèmes. Many online services now support small claims filing; costs are minimal (usually under $200), and you represent yourself. Tocancel recommends consulting with a consumer rights organization or a paralegal before proceeding.

Your legal position is strong if you cancelled within 15 days or if the company violated their published cancellation terms. Escalation is not aggressive; it is your right.

Solidworks alternatives worth considering

Before you finalize your cancellation, consider whether an alternative tool better fits your needs and budget.

Evaluate your actual feature needs, not Solidworks' full capability set. Many teams overpay because they use only 20% of the software's power. Tocancel recommends testing a free trial of your alternative before submitting your final cancellation.

Cancellation checklist for Solidworks

Use this step-by-step checklist to ensure you complete your cancellation correctly.

• Calculate your 15-day refund window and mark the deadline on your calendar.
• Download and export all your project files, designs and data to your local computer or external drive.
• Save your original purchase receipt, order number and account email address.
• Log into your 3DEXPERIENCE account (or contact your reseller if you purchased through a third party).
• Navigate to your subscriptions and click "Cancel Subscription".
• Confirm the cancellation and take a screenshot of the confirmation page.
• Check your email (including spam and promotions folders) for a cancellation confirmation from Dassault Systèmes within 24 hours.
• Forward the confirmation email to yourself and save it in a dedicated folder on your computer.
• Log back into your 3DEXPERIENCE account and verify your subscription is no longer listed as "Active".
• Confirm that auto-renewal is disabled so you are not charged on the renewal date.
• Monitor your credit card or bank account for the refund to appear within 21 days of cancellation.
• If you do not see the refund after 21 business days, contact the reseller or Dassault Systèmes with your confirmation email.
• If the company refuses your refund or cancellation, escalate to your provincial consumer protection authority or Tocancel.

How to contact Solidworks and dassault systèmes in canada

Use this contact information if you need to reach Solidworks directly or escalate an unresolved issue.

Dassault systèmes customer support

You can reach Dassault Systèmes through your 3DEXPERIENCE account by clicking "Help" or "Support" in the main menu. Most customer service inquiries are handled through the online support portal. If you purchased through an authorized reseller, contact the reseller first; they are your primary support channel.

For formal cancellation disputes or escalations, send a registered letter (proof of delivery) to:

Dassault Systèmes Canada Inc.
1351 Walker Road
Windsor, ON N8W 5K3
Canada

Include your order number, account email, original purchase date and a clear statement that you are requesting cancellation and a full refund within the 15-day window. Keep a copy of this letter for your records. Registered mail ensures Dassault Systèmes receives your formal request and creates a documented trail if you need to escalate to a consumer protection authority or Tocancel.

Provincial consumer protection authorities in canada

File a complaint with your provincial consumer authority if Dassault Systèmes or a reseller refuses to cancel or refund:

• Ontario: Government of Ontario, Consumer Protection Act enforcement (serviceontario.ca)
• British Columbia: BC Consumer Protection Office (gov.bc.ca/consumerprotection)
• Alberta: Fair Trading Act enforcement through Alberta Justice and Solicitor General
• Quebec: Office de la protection du consommateur (OPC) (opc.gouv.qc.ca)
• Manitoba: Consumer Protection Office (gov.mb.ca/consumerprotection)
• Federal (Canada-wide): Competition Act enforcement through Competition Bureau (competitionbureau.gc.ca)

Each authority accepts complaints by phone, email or online form. Tocancel recommends filing your complaint within 30 days of the refusal to maximize your chances of investigation and resolution.

Final steps and your next move

Cancelling Solidworks is your right, and you now have the knowledge and tools to execute it confidently.

The 15-day refund window is your most valuable asset. Act within this timeframe, document every step and keep your confirmation email safe. If Dassault Systèmes or a reseller makes cancellation difficult or refuses your refund, escalate to your provincial consumer protection authority without hesitation. Your legal position is solid.

Tocancel has helped thousands of consumers cancel subscriptions, recover refunds and transition to better-suited alternatives. Whether you're switching platforms, managing costs or simply need to move on, Tocancel stands with you at every step. Visit Tocancel today to access additional cancellation guides, complaint templates and consumer rights resources tailored to your situation. Your money is yours; Tocancel helps you keep it.