Free Domain Expiry Checker

Why Use a Domain Expiry Checker?

Knowing the precise expiration date of a domain name is critical intelligence for webmasters, investors, and businesses. Whether you are managing your own portfolio or scouting for new opportunities, timing is everything.

There are three primary reasons to monitor expiry dates:

• Renewal Management: Ensure you never lose a valuable asset due to a failed auto-renew or expired credit card.
• Domain Drop Catching: If you are eyeing a domain that is currently taken, knowing the expiry date allows you to place a backorder or "snatch" it the moment it drops.
• Transfer Planning: ICANN regulations prevent transferring domains within 60 days of registration or just before expiration. Knowing the date helps you plan migrations smoothly.

The Domain Lifecycle: What Happens When It Expires?

Many users assume a domain becomes available the second it hits its expiration date. In reality, there is a complex lifecycle involving several "safety nets" before the name is released to the public.

1. The Renewal Grace Period (0-45 Days)

Immediately after the expiration date, most registrars provide a Grace Period. During this time, the original owner can still renew the domain at the standard price without penalty. The website and email services will likely stop working, but the asset is safe.

2. The Redemption Period (30 Days)

If the domain is not renewed during the grace period, it enters the Redemption Period. This is the "danger zone." The registry holds the domain, and reclaiming it requires a hefty fee (often $100-$200) plus the renewal cost. The original owner still has rights, but it becomes expensive.

3. Pending Delete (5 Days)

Once the redemption period ends, the domain status changes to Pending Delete. At this stage, it cannot be recovered. It is destined to be purged from the registry.

4. Released to the Public

After the 5-day deletion phase, the domain is released. This is when "drop catching" services attempt to register valuable names within milliseconds of their release.

Frequently Asked Questions

How accurate is this tool?

Our tool queries the official WHOIS database in real-time. However, some registrars mask specific dates for privacy reasons. In most cases, the date provided is the official registry expiry date.

Can I register an expired domain immediately?

Not immediately. You must wait for the domain to complete the full lifecycle (Grace Period + Redemption + Pending Delete), which can take 75-80 days after the date shown above.