How to Get a Refund for App Store & Google Play Subscriptions

Updated February 2026 · 7 min read

Accidentally subscribed to an app? Forgot to cancel a free trial? You're not alone — millions of people get charged for app subscriptions they didn't mean to keep. The good news: both Apple and Google have refund processes, and if you act quickly, you'll likely get your money back.

Apple App Store Refund: Step-by-Step

Method 1: Report a Problem (Fastest)

1. Go to reportaproblem.apple.com
2. Sign in with your Apple ID
3. Find the subscription charge you want refunded
4. Click "Report a Problem" next to it
5. Select a reason (e.g., "I didn't mean to subscribe")
6. Submit your request

Timeline: Apple typically responds within 24–48 hours. Refunds appear on your statement within 5–7 business days.

Method 2: Apple Support Chat

If reportaproblem.apple.com doesn't work, contact Apple Support directly. Human agents have more flexibility to approve edge cases.

Apple Refund Window

• Within 14 days: Very likely approved, almost automatic
• 14–60 days: Possible but requires a good reason
• After 60 days: Unlikely through Apple — consider a bank chargeback

Cancel the Subscription Too

1. Open Settings on your iPhone
2. Tap your name at the top → Subscriptions
3. Find the subscription and tap Cancel Subscription

Important: Getting a refund does NOT automatically cancel the subscription. Always cancel separately. See our full guide to canceling subscriptions on iPhone & Android.

Google Play Store Refund: Step-by-Step

Method 1: Within 48 Hours (Automatic)

1. Go to play.google.com/store/account/subscriptions
2. Find the subscription
3. Click Cancel → look for the refund option

Method 2: After 48 Hours (Request Form)

1. Go to Google Play refund support
2. Sign in with your Google account
3. Select the subscription or purchase
4. Choose "I'd like to request a refund"
5. Fill out the form with your reason

Timeline: Google responds within 1–4 business days. Approved refunds appear within 3–5 business days.

Google Play Refund Window

• Within 48 hours: Near-automatic approval
• 48 hours – 30 days: Possible with a valid reason
• After 30 days: Very unlikely — try contacting the app developer directly

Tips to Get Your Refund Approved

• Act fast. The sooner you request, the higher your chances.
• Be specific. "I didn't realize the free trial would auto-renew" beats "I want my money back."
• Cancel first, then refund. This shows you're serious about not wanting the service.
• Don't abuse it. Both Apple and Google track refund history. Frequent requests get denied.

What If Your Refund Is Denied?

1. Contact the app developer. Many will issue refunds directly.
2. Try again with support. A different agent may give a different answer.
3. Dispute with your bank. File a chargeback as a last resort — it can get your account flagged.
4. File a complaint. The FTC Click-to-Cancel rule gives consumers more leverage.

FAQ

How long do I have to request an App Store refund?

Apple allows refund requests up to 60 days after purchase. Requests within 14 days are much more likely to be approved.

Can I get a refund for a Google Play subscription?

Yes. Google offers automatic refunds within 48 hours. After that, you can still request one through support, though approval isn't guaranteed.

What if my refund request is denied?

Contact the app developer directly, try support again, or dispute the charge with your bank. File an FTC complaint if the company is violating cancellation rules.

Will I lose access after getting a refund?

Yes, in most cases you'll lose access to subscription features. The app itself may still be available if it has a free tier.