Breaking up is difficult. That is true in life, and it is also true in business. Knowing what to say—and what not to say—can be intimidating, especially if you aren’t used to terminating business contracts. It’s useful to have a step-by-step plan that you can simply adjust to your specific scenario.

A contract is a legal document that binds at least two parties together and requires them to carry out certain contractual obligations. Contract termination can happen in a variety of ways, rendering the contract null and void. Only the parties to a contract have the power to end it.

Regardless of the reason for canceling the contract, use a professional tone and language. Begin the letter by indicating that you desire to cancel the current contract and the date on which the termination will take effect. You can either give an explanation or just describe the facts as they apply to the circumstance.