# Contract Due Date

{% hint style="info" %}
_**Contract due date**_ is the date and time when a product/service is expected to be received by the [_Contractee_](contractee) (buyer).
{% endhint %}

This date should _**not be confused**_ with the expiration date of a paper-based contract.&#x20;

This is because the contract is still active and valid after the due date, during [_buyer protection time_](buyer-protection-time), and/or until the [_agreed amount_](agreed-amount) (funds) is released.&#x20;

Once published to the blockchain, [_smart contracts_](../../getting-started/what-is-smart-contract) have no expiration date and permanently remain in the [_executed state_](../../contract-states/executed-state) once the funds have been released.

The due date is _**the deadline**_ for delivery that can be used when a dispute agent is called to resolve your case.&#x20;

_Read more about a dispute escalation_ [_here_](../../contract-actions/invite-an-agent)_._
