Free · No signup required

Stuck in a contract? Find out exactly when you can leave.

Most medical waste contracts auto-renew unless you send written notice during a tiny window — often 60-90 days before contract end. Miss it, and you're locked in for another full term. This tool tells you your exact deadline and runs the switch math.

Contract details

Pull out your contract or last invoice. We need 5 quick details. Nothing leaves your browser unless you choose to share results with us at the end.

Total amount, including all surcharges
When you signed (approximate is fine)
Look for "must give written notice X days before" in your contract
Optional. We'll estimate if you don't know.

Your contract analysis

// Cancellation deadline

—

—

// Switch math

—

—

If you switch now
—
Year 1 net savings (after fee)
If you wait it out
—
Lost savings until contract ends
// Recommendation

—

—

Get matched with operators → Analyze my current invoice
This is not legal advice. WasteWise is not a law firm. The math above uses industry-standard contract structures and typical savings ranges. Your actual contract terms, termination fees, and notice requirements may differ — read your contract carefully and consider consulting an attorney for specific legal questions.
// FAQ

How contract checking works

What is an auto-renewal notice window?

Most medical waste contracts (Stericycle, Daniels, MedPro, WM) include a clause where the contract automatically renews for another 1, 3, or 5-year term unless you send written cancellation notice during a specific window before the contract ends — typically 60 to 90 days. If you miss the window, you're locked in for another full term, regardless of whether you wanted to stay or leave.

This is the single biggest reason practices feel "stuck" — they wait until the last minute to think about switching, only to discover their contract auto-renewed three months ago.

Where do I find my notice window in the contract?

Look for language like "Customer must give written notice no less than [X] days prior to the end of the initial term" or "automatic renewal unless cancelled in writing [X] days prior." It's usually in the "Term" or "Termination" section of the contract.

If you can't find your contract, check old emails for the original signed copy. Operators are required to provide it on request, but they sometimes drag their feet.

Should I switch now and pay the termination fee, or wait?

Depends on the math. If your monthly savings exceed the termination fee within 6 months, switching now usually wins — you start saving immediately and the fee pays itself off fast. If you only have a few months left on the contract, waiting often saves more (no fee, just a few months of overpaying).

The contract checker above runs the math for your specific numbers and gives you a recommendation.

How do I actually send the cancellation notice?

Most contracts require written notice via certified mail (or sometimes email to a specific address listed in the contract). Email alone isn't always enough — read your contract.

Best practice: send a written letter via certified mail with return receipt requested, AND email a copy to your account rep + customerservice@. Keep proof of mailing. Operators have been known to claim they "never received" cancellation notices to force auto-renewal.

What if I already missed my notice window?

You're not necessarily stuck. Options: (1) Pay the early termination fee and switch anyway — the math may still work. (2) Wait out the renewed term — but mark your calendar for the NEXT notice window the moment it opens. (3) Negotiate with your current operator using a competing quote — sometimes they'll release you to retain a future relationship, especially if you commit to coming back.

Operators don't always enforce auto-renewal aggressively, especially if you're a small account. It's worth asking before assuming.

Is this legal advice?

No. WasteWise is not a law firm and this tool doesn't review your specific contract. The calculations are based on industry-standard contract structures. For specific legal questions about your contract, consult a qualified attorney. Always read your actual contract terms carefully.