How to get released from a Timeshare
- woody6of113
- 7 days ago
- 3 min read
Trying to Get Out of a Timeshare? You’re Not Alone
Timeshares can feel like a great idea at first—until the fees increase, the booking becomes difficult, or the contract turns into a long-term financial burden. Many people later realize they want out, but don’t know where to start.
The good news is: there are legitimate ways to seek release from a timeshare agreement—but you must be careful. The timeshare industry is also targeted heavily by scams.
This guide explains your options and the safest steps to take.
Step 1: Find Out If You’re Still in the “Rescission” Period
One of the fastest and cleanest ways to exit a timeshare is through the rescission period (sometimes called a “cooling off” period).
This is a short window—often a few days to a couple weeks, depending on your state and contract.
✅ What to do:
Locate the rescission section in your contract
Follow the exact instructions (mailing address, deadlines, delivery method)
Send your cancellation request in writing immediately
⚠️ Important:
If your contract says “send by certified mail” or requires specific wording, follow it exactly.
Step 2: Gather Your Documents
Before you contact anyone, create a file with:
Timeshare contract and all addendums
Payment records and finance terms
Annual fee statements
Any emails or letters from the company
Notes from phone calls (dates, names, summaries)
Screenshots of promises made (if any)
This matters because timeshare disputes often depend on what you can prove.
Step 3: Contact the Timeshare Company About Exit Options
Many developers and timeshare companies now have some type of exit process—even if they don’t advertise it clearly.
Some companies offer:
Deed-back programs (take it back)
Surrender programs
“Relief” programs for hardship
Transfer assistance (in limited cases)
✅ What to ask for:
“Do you offer a deed-back or surrender program?”
“What is the formal process to request release?”
“Where can I submit a written request?”
“Can you provide the terms in writing?”
Always request written confirmation of any offer.
Step 4: Request Release in Writing
Phone calls can lead nowhere. Written requests create a paper trail.
Your written request should include:
Your name and contract/account number
The reason you’re requesting release
A clear request: “I am requesting release from my timeshare obligation”
A deadline for response (example: 10–14 days)
Even if they deny it, your written request becomes evidence later.
Step 5: Explore Selling or Transferring (With Caution)
Many owners try to sell or transfer a timeshare—but this can be difficult.
Things to know:
Many timeshares have low resale value
Some are difficult to transfer due to fees and restrictions
Some transfer companies are legitimate, but many are not
⚠️ Red flag:
If someone promises “guaranteed resale” or asks for large upfront fees with big promises—be extremely careful.
Step 6: Watch Out for Timeshare Exit Scams
Timeshare owners are often targeted by scams pretending to be:
exit lawyers
transfer agents
resale companies
“government-approved” relief programs
🚩 Common scam signs:
“We guarantee we can cancel your timeshare”
“You must pay upfront today”
“We already have a buyer ready”
“We’ll settle your balance immediately”
Pressure tactics and urgency
If a company wants money upfront and can’t clearly explain the process, slow down.
Step 7: File Complaints If You Believe You Were Misled
If you believe the sale involved deception, high-pressure tactics, misrepresentations, or unfair financing terms, you may consider filing complaints with:
The company’s customer advocacy department
Your state consumer protection agency (Attorney General)
The Better Business Bureau (BBB)
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) (if financing is involved)
A complaint doesn’t guarantee release, but it can help create documentation and push review.
Step 8: Consider Legal Help (Especially for Complex Contracts)
Some timeshare exits require legal help, especially if:
You were misled during the sale
The financing terms are abusive
You are being threatened with collections
The company refuses any exit options
Significant money is involved
An attorney can help you evaluate contract terms and potential legal options.
What NOT to Do
Here are common mistakes that make timeshare exits harder:
❌ Stop paying without a plan (may harm credit or trigger collections)❌ Sign anything new without reading it carefully❌ Pay large upfront “exit fees” to unknown companies❌ Rely only on phone promises with no written confirmation❌ Throw away paperwork or delete emails
Simple Checklist: Timeshare Exit Steps
✅ Check rescission period✅ Gather documents✅ Request exit options in writing✅ Set a deadline for response✅ Document all communications✅ File complaints if necessary✅ Seek legal guidance if the dispute escalates