---
title: How do I configure start and end dates for my recurring campaign?
description: "**Start Date (Required):** - This is when your campaign will begin - First message will be sent on this date at the specified time - Cannot be in the past - Format: YYYY-MM-DD **End Date (Optional):** - This is when…"
url: "https://www.smsgatewaycenter.com/blog/kb/how-do-i-configure-start-and-end-dates-for-my-recurring-campaign/"
updated: "2025-10-23"
category: Bulk SMS / Recurring SMS
---

# How do I configure start and end dates for my recurring campaign?

**Start Date (Required):**

- This is when your campaign will begin
- First message will be sent on this date at the specified time
- Cannot be in the past
- Format: YYYY-MM-DD

**End Date (Optional):**

- This is when your campaign will stop
- Leave empty if you want the campaign to run indefinitely
- Must be after the start date
- Campaign automatically stops after this date

**Trigger Time:**

- Specific time of day when messages should be sent
- Format: HH:MM (24-hour format)
- Example: 09:00 for 9 AM, 14:30 for 2:30 PM
- Recommended: Send during business hours (9 AM - 6 PM)

**Examples:**

**Scenario 1: 3-Month Promotional Campaign**

- Start Date: 2025-01-01
- End Date: 2025-03-31
- Time: 10:00
- Result: Runs from Jan 1 to Mar 31, sends at 10:00 AM each time

**Scenario 2: Ongoing Monthly Reminders**

- Start Date: 2025-01-01
- End Date: (Leave empty)
- Time: 09:00
- Result: Runs indefinitely starting Jan 1, sends at 9:00 AM monthly

**Important Notes:**

- System checks for due campaigns every few minutes
- Messages may be sent within 5-10 minutes of scheduled time
- Once end date is reached, campaign stops automatically but remains in your list

### More Related Articles

- [What are the best practices for running successful recurring campaigns?](https://www.smsgatewaycenter.com/blog/kb/what-are-the-best-practices-for-running-successful-recurring-campaigns/)
- [How secure is Recurring SMS? Who can access my campaigns?](https://www.smsgatewaycenter.com/blog/kb/how-secure-is-recurring-sms-who-can-access-my-campaigns/)
- [How do I permanently delete a recurring campaign?](https://www.smsgatewaycenter.com/blog/kb/how-do-i-permanently-delete-a-recurring-campaign/)

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