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Emergency

Mobile contract: term and notice period after the reform

Since the reform of telecommunications law, consumers are better protected with fixed-term contracts. Contracts may no longer bind indefinitely, and after the initial term they can be canceled at short notice. This also applies to mobile, internet and landline.

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Your chances of getting your money back

The initial minimum term may be at most 24 months. After the initial term expires, the contract no longer extends automatically by a year but can be canceled at any time with a notice period of one month (§ 56 TKG).
Providers must moreover point out the end of the contract and a cheaper tariff. A correct and verifiable cancellation secures your short-notice exit after the minimum term.

What you should do now

  1. 1

    1. Check the term

    Look when the minimum term ends.

  2. 2

    2. Prepare the cancellation

    After the initial term you can cancel with a one-month notice period.

  3. 3

    3. Cancel verifiably

    Cancel in writing or via the cancellation button and secure proof.

  4. 4

    4. Organize the switch

    Arrange number porting and a seamless connection switch.

How to spot the scam

  • The provider claims an automatic extension by another year.
  • A notice period longer than one month is demanded after the initial term.
  • The cancellation cannot be proven.

Frequently asked questions

How long may a mobile contract bind me?

The initial minimum term may be at most 24 months. After this initial term expires, the contract may no longer extend automatically by a whole year but continues so that you can cancel it at any time with a notice period of one month (§ 56 TKG).

How do I cancel after the minimum term?

With a notice period of one month at any point in time. Cancel in writing or via the online cancellation button and secure proof. This way you get out of the contract at short notice after the initial term expires.

Must the provider point out the end of the contract to me?

Providers must inform consumers about the expiry of the minimum term and point out the possibility of cancellation as well as cheaper tariffs. Keep such notices, since they help you not to miss the right cancellation point.

Take action now

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General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.