Notice period and automatic renewal

In short: The notice period says how long before the end of a contract you must give notice. If a contract renews automatically, there is a deadline that is easy to miss.

In more detail: Whoever gives notice too late is usually bound for the next term. For consumer contracts concluded since 1 March 2022 in Germany, after the minimum term a contract only continues for an indefinite period and can then be cancelled at any time with one month’s notice. The initial term may be two years at most.

Our context: The contract radar works out the last cancellation date from term end, renewal and notice period and reminds you through a calendar file. It also drafts a cancellation letter (not legal advice).

In Depth

Not legal advice.

Reading deadlines correctly

• Notice period to the end of the term: “three months to the end of the month” means the notice must arrive at the latest the day before the last three months begin.
• Receipt counts: What matters is that the notice reaches the provider, not that you send it.
• Form: For consumers, text form (email) is often enough for new contracts. The provider may not demand a stricter form than the contract itself.
• Cancellation button: Ongoing contracts concluded online must offer an easily found cancellation option on the website (Cancellation button (§ 312k BGB)).

Special termination rights

• Price increases, a move, a change of service or death can allow extraordinary termination.
• Immediate termination for good cause is possible when continuing is unreasonable.

Tips

• Enter the cancellation date in your calendar right after signing.
• Secure the notice by registered mail or a confirmation email.
• Keep the receipt confirmation.

See also: Warranty and statutory guarantee, Recognising subscription traps