Canceled Apple App Store Subscription But Still Charged?
Complete guide to understanding why you're still being charged after canceling an Apple App Store subscription, and how to get a refund.
Overview
Apple App Store subscriptions are one of the most common sources of confusion when it comes to cancellation. Many users cancel their subscription on the service's website, not realizing that App Store subscriptions must be canceled through Apple's system. This guide explains why you might still be charged and how to properly cancel.
Common Issues with Apple App Store
Canceled on website, not on App Store
This is the #1 reason. If you subscribed through the App Store, canceling on the service's website does nothing. You must cancel through Apple's system.
Free trial ended before cancellation
If you canceled after the free trial ended, the first paid period charge is usually non-refundable.
Billing cycle already started
Canceling doesn't refund the current billing period. You keep access until the paid period ends.
How to Cancel App Store Subscriptions (Correctly)
- 1Open Settings app on your iPhone or iPad
- 2Tap your name at the top
- 3Tap "Subscriptions"
- 4Find and tap the subscription you want to cancel
- 5Tap "Cancel Subscription"
- 6Confirm cancellation
- 7Wait for confirmation email from Apple
Important Notes:
- You can also manage subscriptions on Mac: App Store → Account → View Information → Manage Subscriptions
- On Apple TV: Settings → Users and Accounts → [Your Account] → Subscriptions
- The subscription remains active until the end of the current billing period
Why Am I Still Being Charged?
You canceled on the wrong platform
Canceling on the service's website doesn't affect App Store subscriptions. You must cancel through Apple's system (Settings → Subscriptions).
Current billing period is valid
Apple subscriptions are prepaid. If you paid for January 1-31 and canceled on January 15, you're not refunded for the remaining 16 days.
Family Sharing subscription
If someone in your Family Sharing group subscribed, only they can cancel it.
How to Request a Refund
- 1Go to reportaproblem.apple.com
- 2Sign in with your Apple ID
- 3Find the subscription charge
- 4Click "Report a Problem"
- 5Select "I didn't authorize this purchase" or "Other"
- 6Explain your situation clearly and politely
- 7Wait 48 hours for Apple's response