Terminating a deceased person's phone or internet contract

When a contracting party dies, their contracts initially pass to the heirs. Ongoing phone, internet or subscription contracts should be ended quickly so that no unnecessary costs arise. Many providers grant a special termination right in the event of death; usually the death certificate is required.

Reach your next steps and the matching ready-made texts in just a few minutes, free of charge:

Create the termination →

Your chances of getting your money back

The deceased's contracts pass to the heirs (§ 1922 BGB). Many providers grant a special termination right in the event of death, so ongoing contracts can be ended early.

With the death certificate, phone, internet and subscription contracts can usually be terminated at short notice. This avoids unnecessary costs for services no one uses anymore.

What you should do now

1
1. Review the contracts
Get an overview of the deceased's ongoing contracts (mobile, internet, streaming, subscriptions).
2
2. Have the death certificate ready
For the termination, providers usually require a copy of the death certificate.
3
3. Declare the special termination
Terminate the contracts in writing, referring to the death and the special termination right.
4
4. Stop the debits
Stop further debits and demand a refund of amounts for the period after the termination takes effect.

How to spot the scam

Contracts continue unnoticed after the death and cause costs.
The provider demands more than the death certificate as proof.
A special termination in the event of death is refused.

Frequently asked questions

Do contracts end automatically upon death?

No. Contracts initially pass to the heirs (§ 1922 BGB) and continue until they are terminated. However, many providers grant a special termination right in the event of death, so early termination is possible.

What do I need for the termination?

Usually a copy of the death certificate. With it you can terminate the deceased's phone, internet and subscription contracts. Submit the termination in writing and refer to the death and the special termination right.

Do I get overpaid contributions back?

For the period after the termination takes effect, you can demand a refund of amounts paid and stop further debits. Act promptly so that no unnecessary costs for unused services accrue.

Take action now

We put together the ready-made texts and the right places to contact for you.

Create the termination Check a suspicious message

More help: Emergency by phone · Act together · Right to a lawyer · All guides

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.