Confusion Over Domain Expiration Dates Caused By "Buy a domain" Renewal

We're seeing some reports of panic, from a few Blogger blog owners who recently renewed registration of their "Buy a domain" purchased custom domains, with Google Apps informing them that their domain registration is now renewed - but with a back dated expiry. This appears to be a known Google Apps issue.

Roberto of "robertosblogs.net", in Another Google Stuff-up, shows us the confirmation letter, that he recently received from Google Apps.

This message confirms we have renewed your domain registration for robertosblogs.net with GoDaddy.com . Your credit card has been charged $10 and your domain registration is valid until April 5, 2011 .

Some people, reporting this scenario in Blogger Help Forum: Something Is Broken have been rather panicked, and fearful either that they had just wasted $10 - or that their domain now needs an additional payment (for 2 years?).

Fortunately, an online lookup service such as the Name.com Who.Is display can provide the necessary detail, and help set the concerned owner straight.

REGISTRY WHOIS FOR ROBERTOSBLOGS.NET
Domain Name: robertosblogs.net
Updated: 2 seconds ago - Refresh

Registrar: GODADDY.COM, LLC
Whois Server: whois.godaddy.com
Referral URL: http://registrar.godaddy.com
Status: clientDeleteProhibited, clientRenewProhibited, clientTransferProhibited, clientUpdateProhibited

Expiration Date: 2013-04-06
Creation Date: 2008-04-06
Last Update Date: 2012-03-15

Relax a bit, Bob, and enjoy a cuppa.

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