I signed up for a 7-day Super Duolingo trial, but it automatically renewed for $35.99 before I canceled it. The payment failed because there wasn't enough money in my account, and Apple now lists the amount as "Total Owed." I can no longer download apps from the App Store, including free ones. I've already canceled the subscription, contacted Apple Support, and tried the problem-reporting process, but the balance remains. I didn't intend to continue the subscription and would like to know whether Apple can review or remove the charge without requiring payment first. If payment is required, can I request a refund afterward?
3 Answers
Canceling after the renewal doesn’t usually reverse the charge; it only prevents future renewals. Since the payment attempt already happened, the balance may remain due even though the subscription is now canceled. You can still contact Apple and request a review, but you may need to settle the balance before the account is fully usable again.
The official Apple support guidance for unpaid App Store purchases explains the account restrictions and payment options. It’s worth following those steps and contacting billing support directly to ask whether they can review the charge. If they won’t remove it, paying first and then requesting a refund may be the only practical route.
In most cases, Apple requires the outstanding balance to be paid before the account can download anything again. After paying it, you can submit a refund request and explain that the charge came from an unintended trial renewal. Approval isn’t guaranteed, but that is generally the available process.
Has anyone had Apple remove an unpaid subscription balance without paying it first?
I did cancel it, but unfortunately I only realized the renewal had happened afterward.