Guide: How To Handle Your Domain After Canceling a Squarespace Website

Guide: How To Handle Your Domain After Canceling a Squarespace Website

By Michael Turner

December 13, 2024 at 04:53 PM

When canceling your website, managing your domain properly is crucial. Here are your options based on domain registration type:

For Squarespace Domains:

  • Domains don't automatically expire when you cancel your website
  • Auto-renewal continues on the scheduled date
  • You maintain ownership and can use the domain elsewhere

Your Options:

  1. Keep the domain with Squarespace:

    • Maintain ownership
    • Connect to any site
    • Domain stays linked until redirected
  2. Move to another Squarespace site:

    • Transfer before canceling your website
    • Ensures continuous service
  3. Transfer to a new provider:

    • Complete transfer before canceling
    • Maintain domain ownership elsewhere
  4. Cancel the domain:

    • Disable auto-renewal
    • Domain expires at billing cycle end

For Legacy Squarespace Domains:

  • Free renewal with active annual website plan
  • Upon cancellation, choose to:
    • Let domain expire
    • Convert to paid domain ($20/year)

For Third-Party Domains:

  • Disconnect from Squarespace before canceling
  • Manage through original registrar
  • No impact on domain registration status

Best Practice:

  • Decide on domain future before canceling
  • Complete any transfers or changes first
  • Update DNS settings if moving to new host
  • Maintain ownership if you plan to use the domain later

Remember: Your domain is your online identity. Consider keeping it even if you're not currently using it to prevent others from claiming it.

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