Cancellations
How long is the timeshare rescission period in my state?
Updated · By the Certified Letter Online team
Timeshare rescission (cancellation) periods are set by state law and usually run from a few days to about 10 days after signing. Florida, for example, allows cancellation until midnight of the 10th calendar day after the later of signing or receiving the required documents, and a mailed notice counts as given on the postmark date if the developer receives it. Your contract must state the period and the cancellation address.
The safe approach in any state: find the cancellation clause in your contract, mail a written notice by Certified Mail with return receipt to the exact address it gives, and do it as early as possible.
| State | Period | Law |
|---|---|---|
| Florida | 10 calendar days after the later of signing or receiving the last required document; postmark counts if received | Fla. Stat. 721.10 |
| California | 7 calendar days (check the statute) | Business and Professions Code 11238 |
| Nevada | 5 calendar days (check the statute) | NRS 119A.410 |
| Hawaii | 7 calendar days (check the statute) | HRS 514E-8 |
| Illinois | See the statute | Real Estate Timeshare Act of 1999 (765 ILCS 101) |
| New Jersey | See the statute | New Jersey timeshare law (check your contract's cancellation clause) |
| Any state | The contract must disclose the period | Your purchase contract |
How to send the rescission notice
- Find the cancellation section of your contract: the deadline and the exact address (developer or escrow agent).
- Fill in our timeshare rescission notice with the contract number, unit and purchase date.
- Send it Certified with return receipt so you have the postmark date and the delivery signature.
- Keep the letter, receipt and return receipt; if the refund doesn't arrive in the time the law gives, contact your state's real estate regulator or attorney general.
Past the deadline?
See how to get out of a timeshare after the rescission period and watch for exit scams.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. For your specific situation, a legal aid office or a licensed attorney in your state can tell you what applies.
Quick answers
How do I cancel a timeshare by mail within the rescission period?
Mail a signed written notice of cancellation to the address in your contract before the deadline, ideally Certified with return receipt, and keep copies.
Does the postmark count for a timeshare cancellation?
In Florida, yes, if the developer actually receives it. Other states differ, so mail early and check your statute.
Does a timeshare cancellation letter need a reason?
Generally no. Within the rescission period you only need to state clearly that you are cancelling the contract.
What to do next
Don't miss the window: fill in the rescission notice and we'll mail it Certified with return receipt for $17.99.
Send my rescission noticeSources
- Florida Statutes 721.10: Cancellation (timeshare)
- FTC: Timeshares and vacation plans
- USA.gov: State consumer protection offices
Checked: . General information, not legal advice. Fees and rules change: confirm current values at the official links above.