How to cancel subscriptions in 4 simple steps and avoid unwanted spending

While subscriptions for frequently used apps and services are often worth the cost, many people unknowingly pay for ones they no longer use. According to a 2024 CNET survey, U.S. adults spend an average of $91 monthly on subscriptions — over $1,000 yearly.

If your bank account looks a little low and you’re struggling to track where your money is going, you may be paying for unused subscriptions. Spotting and canceling them could save you hundreds (or even thousands) of dollars annually.

Here are four simple steps that will help you regain control of your subscription expenses:

1. Identify your recurring subscriptions

Though confronting your spending habits may seem scary, the first step in canceling subscriptions is tracking expenses month over month. Start by reviewing your credit and debit card statements for recurring charges. Many banks now offer a dedicated section on their online platform or mobile app for recurring payments, making it easier to spot unused subscriptions.

Don’t forget to check your mobile payment app history too. For example, many peer-to-peer payment apps like PayPal, Venmo, or CashApp now allow you to pay for recurring subscriptions, and these receipts may not show up directly in your bank statements as a subscription payment. Instead, they may show up as simple withdrawals.

2. Cancel subscriptions on company websites

Most companies that manage subscriptions through their website require you to cancel directly through your account. You’ll likely need to log in and go to the subscription or billing management section. From there, follow the steps listed to cancel the subscription.

Some services may ask for additional confirmation or include a notice period before cancellation takes effect. For this reason, you should always check their cancellation policies to avoid unexpected charges after you officially cancel the subscription.

After you cancel the subscription, check the bank account or card connected to the subscription to ensure you’re not being charged anymore.

3. Cancel app subscriptions

Many apps require account creation, payment card details, and a recurring subscription agreement to access premium features — even for free trials. While this can be convenient, it’s easy to forget about subscriptions after you no longer use or need them. Over time, forgotten subscriptions can add up, costing you more than you realize.

If you’re unable to cancel a subscription directly through the app or website, it may be tied to a subscription you purchased through the App Store or Google Play. For example, if you purchase a MyFitnessPal subscription via the App Store, you need to cancel it through your Apple ID, rather than their website.

Here's how to cancel subscriptions on your device and start saving your money:

How to cancel subscriptions on your iPhone

Here’s how to cancel subscriptions on iPhone via Apple Subscriptions:

1. Open Settings and tap your name at the top of the screen.
2. Select Subscriptions to open a list of all your active subscriptions.
3. Tap Cancel Subscription, and confirm your decision.

How to cancel subscriptions on your Android

Here’s how to cancel subscriptions on Android via Google Play Store:

1. Open Google Play Store and tap your profile icon in the top-right corner.
2. Select Payments & subscriptions, tap Subscriptions, and choose the one you want to cancel.
3. Tap Cancel subscription at the bottom of the screen, and follow any additional prompts to confirm.

4. Send a cancellation request email

Some companies purposefully make their cancellation process difficult to navigate. In these cases, canceling a subscription requires some extra legwork. If you’ve continued to check back in your customer account and bank statements and you’re still being charged, it’s time to contact the company directly via their support email.

Some smaller companies may require you to send an email to cancel a subscription, but this information is typically listed on their website or in your original order confirmation.

To find a company's contact information, visit its website and scroll down to the footer. You should see a Contact Us or Customer Support section that lists a contact email address.

When sending a cancellation request email, ensure to include as many details regarding your subscription as possible — this may include details such as:

• Your full name
• Account number
• Original order number or reference number (you can also attach the original order confirmation receipt)
• The specific service or product you want to cancel
• A request for confirmation when the cancellation goes through

Subscription management tips

Managing multiple subscriptions can quickly become overwhelming, and it's easy for unused ones to slip through the cracks. Keep a list of all your active subscriptions, so you always know which ones you’re being charged for.

Then follow these tips to take control of your subscriptions, help manage your budget, and start saving:

• Invest in a subscription management tool: If you find your subscriptions overwhelming, a dedicated tool can help you track and manage them in one place, making it easier to identify and cancel unused services.
• Cancel free trials before they expire: Free trials can turn into paid subscriptions if you forget to cancel them. Set a reminder to avoid getting charged once the trial period ends. When you enter your payment details at the beginning of the trial, make it a habit to set a reminder in your calendar simultaneously.
• Set reminders for subscriptions: Mark the renewal dates for your subscriptions in your calendar, or set alerts on your phone so you're not caught off guard by automatic renewals.
• Watch out for price increases: Check for any price hikes for services you subscribe to. Some companies may raise prices after a promotional period, and you may not realize it until your next bill. Look closely at order confirmation emails and auto-renewal notices to better anticipate increases.
• Consolidate subscription plans with family or friends: Many services offer shared plans at a discounted rate. Consider bundling subscriptions with family members or friends to save on subscription costs.
• Use a virtual credit card:  A virtual credit card is a unique digital card number linked to your credit card account, designed to mask your real card information. It’s useful for managing subscriptions, especially free trials, as many virtual cards are one-time use or can be locked to prevent unexpected charges.

Take control of your financial future

By following the steps listed above, you can quickly identify and cancel unused subscriptions. With a little attention and organization, you can ensure you pay only for the services you need. And for stronger oversight of your financial life, get Norton 360 with LifeLock Ultimate Plus, which helps you monitor your financial accounts for fraud and recover losses incurred as a result of identity theft.

FAQs

What happens if I cancel a subscription but still have time left on the billing cycle?

If you cancel a subscription during your billing cycle, most companies let you retain access until the period ends, then stop access when the next billing cycle starts. However, some companies cut your access to the service immediately after cancellation.

Is it safe to use third-party apps for subscription management?

Yes, using third-party apps dedicated to subscription management is generally safe. Just ensure you choose reputable services with strong security protocols, like encryption, that protect your account information and associated personal data.

Can I cancel a free trial before I’m charged?

Yes. To avoid charges after a free trial, cancel it well before it expires — canceling early should allow plenty of time for the cancellation to finish processing so you’re not charged. Many services even let you keep trial benefits until the period ends, but check the service's cancellation policy to be sure.