When using apps through Shopify, including UpCart, it's important to understand how app billing cycles work so you can manage your charges and subscriptions effectively.
This guide will walk you through how Shopify handles billing for third-party apps, what to expect on your invoice, and how billing cycles relate to your Shopify subscription.
What is an App Billing Cycle?
An app billing cycle is the interval at which you are charged for using a third-party app on your Shopify store. Shopify manages billing for most apps (including UpCart), so your app charges are added directly to your Shopify invoice.
Key Points:
App billing cycles do not necessarily match your Shopify subscription billing cycle.
Each app you install may have its own billing cycle, which usually starts on the day you approve the app charge.
Charges are typically recurring monthly, but apps can also use usage-based or one-time charges.
Types of App Charges
There are three main types of charges you may see from an app:
Recurring Application Charges (most common)
A flat monthly fee — for example, $29.99/month for UpCart.
Billed every 30 days starting from the approval date.
Automatically renews unless canceled.
Usage Charges
Based on how much you use the app (e.g., based on orders, views, or other metrics).
These are added to your invoice within your Shopify billing cycle.
One-Time Charges
A single charge, typically for a special feature, upgrade, or add-on.
Billed once and not repeated unless explicitly triggered again.
Billing Timeline Example
Let’s say you install an app on April 10 and approve a $29.99/month recurring charge:
Your first app billing cycle is April 10 – May 10.
You’ll be charged $29.99 on your next Shopify invoice, even if your main Shopify subscription renews on a different date.
On May 10, the next $29.99 will be billed, starting a new 30-day app billing cycle.
Usage-based charges (if applicable) may also appear on the same invoice, based on your usage during the Shopify billing period.
Please note: App billing cycles and your Shopify billing cycle may not always align. This means charges can occasionally appear larger than expected, especially if Shopify combines multiple app billing periods (e.g., two months of charges) into a single invoice.
Where to See App Charges
You can review all app charges directly in your Shopify Admin:
Go to Settings > Billing.
View your current and past invoices.
App charges are listed as line items under App Charges or App Usage Charges.
For more detailed information, Shopify provides an official breakdown here: Shopify Help Center – App Charges
Need help?
Feel free to reach out to our support team via chat in the app — we’ll be happy to help clarify any billing questions or concerns you may have!