Stop Paying for Apps You Don’t Use: How to Check and Cancel Subscriptions

Apple makes it incredibly easy to subscribe to services. Whether it’s a video streaming, your favorite journaling app, or some other subscription, it only takes a tap and double-click of the Side Button to make it happen.

But as easy as it is to sign up for that 99-cent monthly subscription, it can also be surprisingly easy to forget about. Especially if you signed up during a free trial or impulse install.

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Fortunately, Apple also makes it easy to manage your subscriptions and — in some cases — even reminds you to cancel your subscription when you delete an app.

Here’s how to check which ones you’re paying for — and cancel the ones you no longer need.

How to View Your Active Subscriptions

Seeing your subscriptions is as easy as one, two, three:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap your name at the top of the page to access your account settings.
3. Tap Subscriptions.

You’ll see a list of all your active and inactive subscriptions, how much you pay for each, and the date each one renews.

How to Cancel a Subscription

Canceling a subscription is just as easy as finding one:

1. Tap the subscription you want to cancel.
2. Tap Cancel Subscription (or Cancel Free Trial).
3. Confirm your choice.

It’s quick and easy. You can even change your subscription plan after tapping on a subscription (if other plans are available).

Apple will typically let you continue using the service until the end of the current billing period — even if you cancel immediately since you won’t receive a prorated refund for the time left on the subscription.

For third-party subscriptions:

• Try logging into the app directly and looking for billing options.
• Check your email or bank statements for provider info.

Tips to Avoid Surprise Subscriptions in the Future

• Turn off auto-renew after activating free trials if you’re not committed. You will still be able to use the service for the remainder of the trial.
• Turn on Renewal Receipt Emails to get an email whenever you’re billed for a subscription. You can find this option at the bottom of the list of active subscriptions.
• Use the Reminders app to set reminders to check subscriptions monthly.
• Review Family Sharing subscriptions. If you’re the organizer, your payment method is used for the charges.

Final Thought

Automatic subscriptions can be convenient, but only when you actually use them. A quick check now and then can save you money over time. So go ahead and be proactive, clear out the digital clutter, and take back control of your wallet.