Timeshare Cancellation Letter Template (With Example You Can Use)

A strong timeshare cancellation letter template can save you time, reduce emotion, and improve your odds of getting a clear written response. Whether you are inside rescission or requesting surrender after years of ownership, the quality of your letter matters.

This guide includes an editable template and instructions for sending it correctly.

When to use a cancellation letter

Use a formal letter when you need to:

• Exercise rescission rights during the legal cooling-off period
• Request deed-back/surrender for a paid-off timeshare
• Request hardship-based release
• Create a written record before escalating complaints

A phone call alone is not enough.

What to include in your letter

Your letter should include:

1. Full owner names exactly as contract lists them

2. Contract/account number(s)

3. Resort name and product type

4. Clear request (cancel, surrender, hardship review)

5. Brief factual reason (optional but useful)

6. Request for written confirmation

7. Signature(s) of all required owners

Keep it concise. Angry long letters often reduce effectiveness.

Timeshare cancellation letter template

Copy, paste, and customize:

Letter Template

Date: [MM/DD/YYYY]

Via Certified Mail – Return Receipt Requested

[Developer/Resort Name]

[Department, if known]

[Mailing Address]

Re: Request to Cancel/Surrender Timeshare Contract

To Whom It May Concern,

I/We, [Full Legal Name(s)], am/are the owner(s) of timeshare account/contract number [Contract Number], associated with [Resort Name], purchased on [Purchase Date].

I/We hereby request [choose one: cancellation under applicable rescission rights / voluntary surrender (deed-back) / hardship review for release from this ownership] effective as soon as possible.

Reason for request (brief factual statement): [Example: We are retired, on fixed income, and no longer able to use the ownership due to medical and financial hardship.]

Please provide written confirmation of receipt of this request and written notice of next steps, required documents, and final disposition of the account.

All future correspondence should be sent to:

Name: [Owner Name]

Address: [Mailing Address]

Email: [Email]

Phone: [Phone]

Thank you for your prompt attention.

Sincerely,

[Signature]

[Printed Name]

[Second Signature if co-owner required]

[Printed Name]

Enclosures: [List supporting documents, if any]

Optional hardship add-on paragraph

If your case involves age/health/financial hardship, include:

"Due to [medical condition/fixed income/caregiver responsibilities], we are unable to continue ownership obligations. We respectfully request compassionate review and release from future maintenance fee obligations. Supporting documentation is enclosed."

Sending checklist (critical)

• Use the exact mailing address in your contract for notices
• Send via certified mail with return receipt
• Keep a complete copy of what you sent
• Save tracking and delivery proof
• If required, also send by email/fax per contract rules

If within rescission, timing and method are legal requirements. One mailing mistake can void an otherwise valid cancellation.

What not to write

Avoid:

• Threats or insults
• Unprovable accusations
• Conflicting requests in one letter
• Unclear asks like "Please help me"

Instead, make one clear ask and request written response.

If they do not respond

After 15–30 days:

1. Send a follow-up referencing original delivery date

2. Escalate to executive customer care

3. File state AG complaint (and CFPB if financing issue exists)

Attach your letter, tracking proof, and account documents.

Frequently asked questions

Should I stop paying after sending the letter?

Not automatically. Nonpayment can trigger collections and credit harm. Decide after reviewing risks and alternatives.

Can I email only?

Mail is usually safer because many contracts require formal written notice by specific method.

Do I need an attorney?

Not always. Many owners can start effectively on their own. Legal help may be useful for complex disputes or high loan balances.

Final thought

A good timeshare cancellation letter template gives structure, not magic. Your strongest advantage is a documented, fact-based process with proof of delivery and consistent follow-up.

If you want help choosing the right version of your letter (rescission vs surrender vs hardship), run your case through the DeedBreak assessment tool first so your request matches your most realistic exit path.