Daily Life· 3 min read
Contracts: minimum terms and cancellation
Mobile, internet, gym and insurance contracts often auto-renew. Know the rules so you don't get locked in for another year.
Many German contracts (mobile, internet, gym, magazines, insurance) have a minimum term (Mindestlaufzeit), often 12 or 24 months, and renew automatically if you don't cancel in time.
Good to know: Since 2022, contracts signed online that auto-renew can be cancelled monthly after the initial term, and many providers must offer a one-click cancellation button. Still, always read the Kündigungsfrist (notice period).
Watch out: Miss the cancellation deadline and you may be bound for another full term. Set a reminder a month before the contract end date, and send your Kündigung in writing (email is usually fine; keep proof).
Tip: Moving away or losing your job can be grounds for early cancellation of some contracts (e.g. gym). Check the small print for a Sonderkündigungsrecht (special right to cancel).