Domains are registered for a fixed term and must be renewed. If a renewal is missed, the domain does not usually vanish overnight. It passes through a series of stages, and the exact timings depend on the extension and the registrar.
The typical stages
- Expiry. On the expiry date the registration term ends. Many registrars stop the domain from resolving soon afterwards, so your website and email stop working. This is often how people first notice.
- Grace period. For many generic extensions, there is a period after expiry when the holder can still renew, usually at the normal renewal price. Its length varies by registrar and extension.
- Redemption period. After that, the domain may enter a redemption period, commonly around 30 days for generic extensions. The original holder can usually still recover it, but at a significantly higher fee.
- Pending deletion. A short period, often about five days, during which the domain cannot be recovered.
- Release. The name becomes available for anyone to register, including people who look for recently expired names.
Country-code extensions often follow different rules, so check yours.
Why it matters
When a domain lapses, your website goes offline and email to your addresses bounces. If someone else registers it after release, they control the name, and any links, accounts or password resets tied to your email address may be at risk.
How to avoid losing a domain
- Keep the contact email on your registration up to date, so renewal reminders reach you.
- Turn on auto-renew where it is available, and keep the payment method current.
- Consider registering for more than one year at a time.
- Put renewal dates in your calendar.
For Courthology members
Your dashboard shows each domain’s expiry date and how long sponsorship covers it. We review sponsored renewals ahead of time and will contact you well before anything changes. If you are worried about a domain, contact us.