A temperature-dependent switching mechanism for a temperature-dependent switch, having: a temperature-dependent bimetal snap-action disc having a first through hole; a temperature independent snap-action spring disc having a second through hole; and an electrically conductive contact member including a main body that passes through the first through hole and the second through hole. The contact member includes a support shoulder projecting radially from the main body, a first locking element projecting radially from the main body and arranged on a first side of the support shoulder, and a second locking element projecting radially from the main body and arranged on a second side of the support shoulder opposite the first side. The temperature-dependent bimetal snap-action disc and the snap-action spring disc are arranged between the locking elements and the support shoulder and are each held captive, but with clearance, by these on the main body of the contact member.