Sample Letter to Cancel a Timeshare Contract: A Comprehensive Guide
If you’re trapped in a timeshare contract that no longer serves your needs, writing a formal timeshare cancellation letter is the first step toward legally exiting your agreement. Crafting an effective letter ensures that your request is clear, professional, and adheres to any legal guidelines that protect your rights. In this detailed guide, we will explain why a formal letter is essential, walk you through the key components, and provide a sample template to help you get started. By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly how to draft and submit a strong timeshare cancellation letter, with insight into what to expect after submission.
Why You Need a Formal Letter to Cancel a Timeshare Contract
When it comes to legally cancelling a timeshare contract, a formal letter is critical because it establishes an official paper trail. This letter serves as documented evidence of your intent to cancel and is a key requirement for most timeshare companies to process your request.
Here’s why it’s important:
- Legal Requirement: Many contracts require written notice for cancellations to be valid.
- Proof of Communication: A formal letter helps create a clear record of your cancellation request.
- Compliance with Deadlines: In many states, there are rescission periods (cooling-off periods) where timeshare owners can cancel their contracts. A formal letter submitted within this timeframe helps protect your rights.
By sending a properly structured letter, you ensure that your request is taken seriously and can be referred to if disputes arise.
Key Components of a Timeshare Cancellation Letter
A strong timeshare cancellation letter needs to include specific information to be effective. Below are the key components your letter should have:
- Your Name and Contact Information: Include your full name, mailing address, phone number, and email address.
- Timeshare Company Information: Address the letter to the company or resort where you purchased the timeshare.
- Contract Details: Clearly state your contract number, date of purchase, and location of the property.
- Cancellation Request: Be explicit in requesting the cancellation of your timeshare contract and any associated memberships.
- Reason for Cancellation: While not always necessary, briefly stating the reason (e.g., financial hardship, dissatisfaction) can add weight to your request.
- Request for Confirmation: Ask for written confirmation of your cancellation and keep a copy of all correspondence.
- Signature: Sign the letter to formalize your request.
Including these elements ensures that your cancellation request is complete and professional, increasing the likelihood that it will be processed without delays.
Step-by-Step Guide to Writing a Timeshare Cancellation Letter
Follow these steps to ensure your letter is well-structured and adheres to formal guidelines:
- Start with Your Contact Information: Include your name, address, phone number, and email at the top of the letter.
- Add the Date: Always include the date when you are sending the letter.
- Timeshare Companies Contact Information: Address your letter to the timeshare company’s cancellation or customer service department.
- Subject Line: Use a clear subject line such as “Request to Cancel Timeshare Contract – Contract [Your Contract Number].”
- Opening Statement: Politely open your letter by introducing yourself and stating your intent to cancel the contract.
- Provide Contract Information: Include key details like your contract number, date of purchase, and property location.
- State Your Request Clearly: Make it clear that you are requesting immediate cancellation of your timeshare contract. Be direct but professional.
- Ask for Written Confirmation: Request that the company send you written confirmation of the cancellation for your records.
- Closing: Politely thank them for their attention to this matter and provide your signature.
Sample Letter to Cancel a Timeshare Contract: Template
Below is a sample letter you can use as a template to cancel your timeshare contract:
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
[Phone Number]
[Email Address]
[Date]
[Timeshare Company Name]
Customer Service Department
[Company Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Request to Cancel Timeshare Contract – Contract [Your Contract Number]
Dear [Timeshare Company],
I am writing to formally request the cancellation of my timeshare contract, Contract [Your Contract Number], for the property located at [Timeshare Property Location], which was purchased on [Date of Purchase].
I no longer wish to maintain ownership of this timeshare and request immediate cancellation of the contract. Please provide written confirmation that my contract has been cancelled and that I will no longer be responsible for any payments or fees associated with this timeshare.
Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to receiving confirmation of my cancellation.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Signature]
How to Submit Your Timeshare Cancellation Letter
Draft your letter, then send it in a way that will guarantee the recipient can receive and confirm receipt of submitted documents. These are the preferred methods:
- Certified Mail: Mailing the letter certified mail with a return receipt is also advisable. This is evidence that the timeshare company has received your request for cancellation.
- Email: If the timeshare company allows, you can send your letter via email as well but be sure to ask for a read receipt.
- Hand Delivery: If you have an office near your home, hand deliver the letter to them. Do not forget to ask for a delivery receipt.
Store your letter and everything they have written somewhere so you can refer back to it.
Legal Considerations When Cancelling a Timeshare
As cancelling time-share is a legal thing, the following are some things you need to know about your rights. Most states have a rescission period of 5-15 days, which allows you to cancel the contract without any penalties. The laws to examine would be judicial, military and Criminal so I have highlighted some pertinent cases in point for you.
- Educate yourself on the Rescission Period: Look up your state legislation to make sure you are making that cancellation request within the deadline.
- Check Your Contract: Check the terms of your contract closely. It could detail certain steps or fines for ending the innovation.
- Contact A Lawyer: If you are outside of your rescission period, or the timeshare company refuses to cancel the contract-consult a lawyer and seek help from reputable Timeshare Exit companies like CancelTimeshare Geek.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Your Timeshare Cancellation Letter
To ensure your cancellation request is successful, avoid these common mistakes:
- Missing Information: Failing to include your contract number, property location, or other crucial details can delay the process.
- Vague Language: Be clear and direct in your cancellation request. Avoid vague phrases like “I would like to cancel,” and instead use, “I am requesting immediate cancellation.”
- Not Sending the Letter Properly: Always use certified mail or another trackable delivery method to ensure your request is received.
By avoiding these errors, you increase the likelihood of a smooth cancellation process.
What to Expect After Sending Your Timeshare Cancellation Letter
After submitting your letter, the timeshare company will typically review your request and respond with a confirmation. Here’s what you can expect:
- Written Confirmation: You should receive a letter or email confirming that your contract has been cancelled.
- Refund (if applicable): If you’re still within the rescission period, you may receive a refund of any payments made toward the timeshare.
- Final Billing: You may be responsible for any outstanding maintenance fees or payments up to the date of cancellation.
It’s important to keep all correspondence related to the cancellation for your records.
How to Follow Up on Your Timeshare Cancellation Request
If you don’t receive a response from the timeshare company within a reasonable timeframe (usually 30 days), it’s important to follow up:
- Send a Follow-Up Letter: Politely inquire about the status of your cancellation request and include a copy of your original letter.
- Contact Customer Service: Call the company’s customer service department to confirm they received your letter and inquire about next steps.
- Seek Legal Assistance: If you continue to face difficulties, consider hiring a timeshare exit company like CancelTimeshareGeek to help you navigate the process and ensure a successful cancellation.
