Revised Timelines: Extended Service Terms in CSP

Microsoft has announced important updates to the Extended Service Terms (EST) enforcement timeline in the Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) program. Partners need to take action now to ensure compliance and maintain business continuity.

Key Timeline Changes

The enforcement of Extended Service Terms now begins May 4, 2026 (previously April 1, 2026). This revised timeline gives partners additional time to prepare and implement the necessary changes, but action must begin immediately.

Critical Milestones & Deadlines

  • February 16, 2026: Production availability of EST capabilities in Partner Center
  • February 28, 2026: Data export deadline for existing subscriptions
  • May 4, 2026: Enforcement begins - Extended Service Terms required for all new and renewal subscriptions

What Partners Must Do Now

Extended Service Terms are a fundamental shift in how CSP subscriptions work. Partners must:

  • Review customer contracts: Understand which customers will be affected and prepare renewal discussions
  • Plan renewal conversations: Contact customers before their service terms end to discuss EST implementation
  • Prepare systems: Configure Partner Center with EST-enabled offerings by the February 16 production availability date
  • Export data: Complete data export operations by February 28 to ensure continuity
  • Train your team: Ensure all customer-facing staff understand EST requirements and can explain benefits to customers

Why Extended Service Terms Matter

Extended Service Terms change the renewal model for Microsoft subscriptions in the CSP channel. Rather than monthly subscriptions, EST enables longer commitment periods with predictable billing cycles. This helps partners offer more enterprise-friendly purchasing models to customers while improving revenue predictability.

For more information on Extended Service Terms implementation, visit Microsoft Partner Center documentation and CSP resources.

TL;DR

  • EST enforcement delayed to May 4, 2026 (from April 1) - gives partners extra time to prepare
  • Production capabilities available Feb 16; data export deadline Feb 28 - mark these dates
  • Start customer renewal discussions now to ensure smooth transition before enforcement begins
  • EST shifts CSP from monthly to longer-term commitments with improved billing predictability
  • Compliance is mandatory by May 4 for all new and renewal subscriptions - no exceptions

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