Microsoft announces end dates for subscription and support for Dynamics GP and SL
Microsoft has released new updates that solidify the end-of-life timeline for Microsoft Dynamics GP and Dynamics SL, specifically targeting subscription-based licensing and the Services Provider License Agreement (SPLA). These changes continue to align with Microsoft’s long-term strategy of prioritizing cloud-based solutions like Dynamics 365.
This latest update marks a final phase in the lifecycle of both products, providing clarity for current users and service providers as they plan transitions away from legacy on-premise systems.
End date for subscription and support
This update centers around the termination of subscription billing and SPLA-based usage for Dynamics GP and SL:
- April 30, 2031 – End of subscription billing and use of product
After this date, businesses using these licensing models will no longer be able to legally operate their Dynamics GP or SL systems. This cutoff follows previous Dynamics GP end of life announcements that phased out new license sales and product updates. It signals the final sunset for all Microsoft-managed GP and SL licensing options.
This change applies specifically to customers who have not purchased perpetual licenses and are instead operating under monthly subscription models or SPLA agreements, often through Microsoft partners or hosting providers.
Final end-of-life timeline for Dynamics GP
In addition to the subscription and SPLA end dates, the full end-of-life timeline for Dynamics GP now includes:
- April 1, 2025 – No new sales of GP perpetual licenses for new customers
- April 1, 2026 – No new GP subscription license sales for new customers
- December 31, 2029 – End of product enhancements, regulatory updates, service packs, and technical support
- April 30, 2031 – Final end of subscription billing, SPLA usage, and security updates, marking the official end of Dynamics GP
What this means for GP and SL users
Dynamics GP and SL will no longer be supported in any capacity beyond 2031, no updates, no security patches, and no subscription usage. While perpetual license users may continue operating the software at their own risk, all Microsoft-managed subscription and hosting options will be shut down.
Key implications:
- License enforcement: Customers under SPLA or subscription agreements must fully exit those environments by April 2031.
- Security exposure: All updates, including critical security patches, will stop after April 30, 2031.
- Regulatory risk: Regulatory and tax updates will cease after December 2029, increasing compliance concerns.
- No renewal path: Subscription customers will have no way to continue using GP or SL beyond the cutoff.
Planning for the future
Organizations still using Dynamics GP or SL, especially under subscription or SPLA agreements, need to begin planning their exit strategy now. Microsoft has shifted its strategy to focus on cloud-native solutions like Dynamics 365 Business Central, which offer ongoing innovation, regulatory compliance, and AI-powered capabilities.
Recommendations:
- Review your current GP or SL licensing model
- Begin evaluating modern cloud ERP alternatives
- Define a phased migration plan
- Partner with a consulting team experienced in Dynamics GP or SL transitions
What’s next
With final subscription and SPLA end dates now published, the countdown to full retirement has begun. Microsoft encourages Dynamics GP to Business Central migration. An experienced partner offering Dynamics 365 Business Central consulting services can help support this transition.
If you have questions about these updates or are considering migrating to a cloud-based ERP system, partnering with an experienced Microsoft Dynamics GP consulting firm is crucial. A trusted partner can help you navigate the migration process, ensuring your business benefits from modern features like enhanced security, AI-driven insights, and robust integrations—all while maintaining the elements of Dynamics GP that have supported your success.
