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Why was I charged during a free trial or after canceling a subscription through the Apple App Store, and how can I resolve it?

Written by Farron Metz

Understanding Charges During Free Trials and Subscription Cancellations via the Apple App Store

When managing subscriptions through the Apple App Store, users may encounter unexpected charges during free trials or after canceling subscriptions. This article explains why these charges occur and provides guidance on resolving them.

Overview of Subscription Policies

Subscriptions purchased through the Apple App Store are managed entirely by Apple. This includes billing, free trial eligibility, and refunds. Developers, such as Unscripted, cannot modify or refund these subscriptions directly.

Free Trial Eligibility and Charges

Why Was I Charged During a Free Trial?

Apple allows only one free trial per Apple ID for a given subscription. If you’ve previously used a free trial for Unscripted or any other app, starting another "trial" will result in an immediate charge for the subscription. This charge applies to the selected plan, such as an annual subscription.

Why Was I Charged When My Free Trial Ended?

If a subscription isn’t canceled at least 24 hours before the trial ends, it automatically renews, and the first charge is processed when the trial expires. To avoid being charged, ensure you cancel the subscription in your Apple ID settings before the trial expiration date.

Managing and Canceling Subscriptions

How to Properly Cancel a Subscription

Web / Stripe (if you signed up through our website)

Cancel your subscription here

  1. Click the link and enter the email you signed up with

  2. Check your inbox for a secure login link from Stripe (check spam if needed)

  3. Click through to your billing portal

  4. Find your subscription → Cancel plan

You'll keep access until the end of your current billing period, and you can reactivate anytime before then. You can also update your payment method or download invoices from the same portal.

App Store (iPhone/iPad)

  1. Open Settings → tap your name at the top

  2. Tap Subscriptions

  3. Select Unscripted

  4. Tap Cancel Subscription

Google Play (Android)

  1. Open the Google Play Store app

  2. Tap your profile icon → Payments & subscriptions → Subscriptions

  3. Select Unscripted

  4. Tap Cancel subscription and follow the prompts

Still stuck? Reply to this chat and we'll jump in to help.

Refund Requests

How to Request a Refund for an Apple App Store Subscription

Refunds for purchases made through the Apple App Store must be requested directly from Apple. Follow these steps:

  1. Visit Apple’s Request a Refund page.

  2. Sign in with your Apple ID.

  3. Select the Unscripted subscription charge.

  4. Submit your refund request.

Apple will review your request and notify you of the outcome.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Why Do I See Multiple Subscription Prices in Apple Settings?

Apple’s in-app purchase list may display old, test, promotional, or region-specific items that are no longer available. This can result in multiple subscription prices appearing without clear explanations.

Related Topics

By understanding these policies and following the outlined steps, you can effectively manage your subscriptions and resolve unexpected charges.

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