How to register an Indefinite Contract (with no end date)

This article explains how to register an indefinite contract - a contract with no predefined end date - what it means for the contract lifecycle, and how such contracts are managed in the CLM system.

🗺️ Overview

An indefinite contract is an agreement that does not have a fixed end date and remains valid until it is manually inactivated. This type of contract is commonly used for long-term partnerships, framework agreements, or ongoing services where the duration is not known upfront.

Registering an indefinite contract correctly ensures it remains active without triggering renewal or expiration processes.

🧑‍🦱 Who Can Use This

Indefinite contracts can be registered by users with permission to create or edit contracts:

• CLM Power User

• Editor - when working on an existing contract

💻 How to Register an Indefinite Contract

To register a contract as indefinite:

• Set a Start Date

• Leave the End Date empty

• Set No End date as yes

Indefinite contracts differ from definite (fixed-term) contracts in the following ways:

• No End Date means:

  • Automatic inactivation based on dates does not apply

• Renewal is not applicable:

  • Renewal actions are not available

  • Auto-renewal does not apply

• The contract remains Active until:

  • It is manually inactivated

✍️ Editing and Lifecycle Management

• Indefinite contracts follow the standard Authoring → Signing → Active → Inactive / Archive lifecycle, except for renewal-related steps.

• All standard validations apply when activating an indefinite contract.

Best Practices

💡 Tips for Effective Use:

• Use indefinite contracts only when there is a clear business need for an open-ended agreement.

• Clearly define termination, notice periods, and exit conditions in the contract content.

• Regularly review indefinite contracts to confirm they are still valid and relevant.

• Avoid using indefinite contracts when a fixed term with renewal options would provide better control.