When is Mercury retrograde in 2026?

Mercury goes retrograde three times in 2026: February 26 to March 20 (in Pisces), June 29 to July 23 (in Cancer), and October 24 to November 13 (in Scorpio).

What is the Mercury retrograde shadow period?

The shadow period is when Mercury travels through the degrees it will later retrace during retrograde. Effects begin building during the pre-shadow and continue clearing during the post-shadow. The full cycle (shadow to shadow) is longer than the retrograde itself.

What is Mercury cazimi?

Cazimi is when Mercury conjuncts (aligns with) the Sun during retrograde. It's considered a moment of clarity and insight within the confusion. In 2026, the cazimi dates are March 7, July 12, and November 4.

Should I avoid signing contracts during Mercury retrograde?

It's wise to review contracts extra carefully during retrograde. If you must sign, read everything thoroughly and expect potential revisions later. If you can wait, waiting is often easier.

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Planetary Transits·Published January 10, 2026·8 min read

Mercury Retrograde 2026: All Three Dates and How to Survive Them

Mercury goes retrograde three times in 2026, all in water signs. Here are the exact dates, what to expect, and how to navigate each cycle without losing your mind.

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