Microsoft will add a 5% cost-of-capital charge to CSP software subscriptions on an annual term but billed monthly, start
The Story
ing 1 October 2026.
Why It Matters
The charge hits Windows Server, SQL Server, Client Access Licences and System Center bought through a reseller's Cloud Solution Provider channel, the route most Polish SMBs use for on-premises server software. Annual billing and month-to-month subscriptions are unaffected; only annual-commitment customers who chose monthly instalments for cash flow pay the extra 5%, landing at the next renewal on or after 1 October 2026.
What To Do About It
Have your Microsoft reseller confirm which server licences renew after 1 October 2026 and whether they are billed monthly on an annual term. If cash flow allows, switching that subscription to annual billing before the renewal date avoids the surcharge entirely; if it does not, budget the extra 5% into the renewal quote rather than finding it on the invoice.
