Can a voucher expire after one year?
Usually not that fast. Vouchers are subject to the standard 3-year limitation (§ 195 BGB), counted from the end of the year in which the voucher was issued. So a 2026 voucher is valid until end of 2029. A shorter limit printed by the issuer (e.g. 'valid 1 year') is, per case law, usually invalid, because it unreasonably disadvantages the customer — unless there's a factual reason (e.g. a time-bound event ticket). If it does lapse, you can often still claim the goods value minus lost profit.
📋 The rules
- Vouchers lapse after 3 years (§ 195 BGB)
- The period starts at the end of the year of issue
- Shorter limits are usually invalid (unreasonable disadvantage)
- Exception: a factual reason (e.g. a seasonal/event-bound service)
- On lapse, often still a claim to value minus profit margin
🔓 Exceptions
- Event/performance tickets with a fixed date may have a shorter limit
- Promo/discount vouchers (given, not bought) may be limited more strictly
- On business closure/insolvency, refunds follow insolvency law
⚠️ Penalties & fines
It's about your claims. If a retailer refuses to redeem a voucher that hasn't yet lapsed, you can insist on redemption or a refund and turn to the consumer centre. If the printed limit is invalid, the 3-year limitation applies. On business closure you can reclaim the paid amount; in insolvency you must register the claim.
📎 Official sources
- § 195 BGB · Standard limitation period →
- § 199 BGB · Start of the limitation period →
- Verbraucherzentrale · Vouchers — how long are they valid? →
❓ Frequently asked
How long is a voucher valid?
As a rule three years — counted from the end of the year you received it. So a 2026 voucher is valid until the end of 2029. That follows from the standard limitation under § 195 BGB.
Can a voucher be valid for only one year?
Usually not. Such a short limit unreasonably disadvantages customers and is, per case law, generally invalid. Then the statutory three years apply instead — unless there's a factual reason.
What if the voucher has lapsed anyway?
Even then you're often not empty-handed: you can frequently claim the goods value minus the retailer's lost profit. The voucher usually becomes fully worthless only after the three-year limitation.
What about event or concert tickets?
For time-bound services like a concert on a fixed date, a shorter limit is allowed — the service is only possible on that date. That's the factual reason justifying a short period.
Do I get money back if the shop closes?
On a business closure you can reclaim the paid amount, since the service can no longer be provided. In insolvency you must register your claim with the administrator.
🔎 Common searches
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