How to cancel a subscription properly: where to look and what to keep
Deleting the app doesn't cancel anything. The key is working out who actually bills you, then keeping proof that you've cancelled.
The most common cancellation mistake is simple: deleting the app and assuming that's the end of it. In most cases, the billing carries on. Here's how to do it properly.
Step 1: find out who bills you
Look at the charge on your bank or card statement, or search your email for the receipt. The biller is usually one of these:
- Apple: on iPhone, go to Settings, tap your name, then Subscriptions.
- Google Play: open the Play Store, tap your profile icon, then Payments & subscriptions, then Subscriptions.
- The provider directly: sign in on its website and look under account, billing or membership.
- A phone or TV provider: check your bill or account with that company.
Step 2: cancel and keep the proof
- Follow the cancel steps to the very end. Some flows show several offers or "are you sure?" screens first.
- Screenshot the confirmation screen.
- Save the confirmation email. If you don't get one within a day or so, contact support.
Step 3: check the next statement
Put a reminder in your calendar for just after the next billing date and confirm that no new charge has appeared.
If you can't find a way to cancel
Email the provider's customer support. Include the email address on the account, the date and amount of the last charge, and a clear request to cancel. Keep a copy of your message and the reply.
If a charge continues after you've cancelled and the provider isn't resolving it, your bank or card issuer can explain what options you have.