What Does It Mean When a Domain Is in Redemption?

When a domain enters redemption, you are given a grace period to renew a domain name after it has expired. ICANN has placed this “grace period” in place due to domain names inadvertently being deleted or expired.

This is handy if you have forgotten to renew a domain. But, if your domain is managed by InMotion Hosting, your domain name is renewed for you.

However, if a domain falls into redemption it can be quite costly to regain the domain. Most registrars charge a fee to reclaim a domain. So, while the initial cost of purchasing the domain may be low, domains in redemption can be retrieved at a slightly higher cost.

The cost for redemption is dependent on the type of TLD you have. We also bill for a 1-year renewal based on the domain TLD, which is added to the total for the final redemption fee.

Note: Not all TLDs have a redemption period. For information about a specific TLD, please refer to the gTLD and ccTLD Reference Chart.

Expiration Phases

Day 0-40: Domain has expired, but is within grace period

A domain will not fall into redemption immediately after it expires. 40 days after the domain expires, and has not been renewed with the registrar, it will be placed into redemption status. If you renew your domain within the 40-day grace period, then you can avoid paying the redemption fees.

Day 40-99: Domain not renewed during grace period, but is within Redemption period

After the 40 day grace period, if the domain name has not been renewed, it may be queued for deletion and eventually dropped or auctioned off, or OpenSRS may decide to add it to their portfolio. If it is added to their portfolio, the domain name then enters a 30 day Redemption period.

Day 100+: Domain available for purchase by general public

After 100 days, the domain name will be available for purchase by the general public.

For more information from OpenSRS, see this article about OpenSRS redemption policies.

If you have further questions or need assistance please contact our support department.