App Store Subscription Mismatch: Canceled on Website But Still Charged
The #1 reason for unexpected subscription charges: canceling on the wrong platform. Learn why and how to fix it.
What Is This Problem?
App Store Subscription Mismatch occurs when you cancel a subscription on the service's website, but the actual subscription was made through Apple App Store or Google Play Store. These are completely separate billing systems, and canceling in one doesn't affect the other.
Why Does This Happen?
This happens because when you subscribe through a mobile app, Apple or Google acts as the middleman, handling all payments. The service receives the money from Apple/Google, not directly from you. Therefore, only Apple/Google can cancel the subscription.
How Common Is This?
This is the #1 most common subscription cancellation mistake. Studies show that 40-50% of people who think they canceled a mobile app subscription actually only canceled their website account, not the App Store subscription.
Real Examples
“Sarah canceled her meditation app on the website, but kept seeing $12.99/month charges because she originally subscribed through her iPhone app.”
“Mike deleted a workout app from his Android phone, thinking that would cancel it. He was charged for 6 more months before discovering he needed to cancel in Google Play.”
“Lisa called her streaming service's customer support to cancel, but they couldn't help because the subscription was through Apple, not them.”
How to Fix This (Right Now)
- 1Check where you originally subscribed: Did you sign up on a website, or through a mobile app?
- 2For iPhone/iPad: Go to Settings → [Your Name] → Subscriptions → Find the service → Cancel
- 3For Android: Open Google Play Store → Profile icon → Payments & subscriptions → Subscriptions → Cancel
- 4Confirm you receive a cancellation email from Apple or Google (not the service)
- 5The subscription will remain active until the end of your current billing period
Follow-Up Steps
- Mark your calendar for the end date to verify no new charges appear
- Remove your payment method from the service's website to prevent future confusion
- If you were charged recently, you can request a refund through Apple/Google (reportaproblem.apple.com or Play Store)
How to Prevent This in the Future
- Always remember where you originally subscribed (website vs mobile app)
- Take a screenshot of your confirmation email - it usually indicates the platform
- If in doubt, check both the service's website AND your device's app store subscriptions
- Set calendar reminders BEFORE renewal dates, not after