Zombie Subscriptions: The Charges That Won't Die

Updated February 2026 · 6 min read

You canceled. You're sure you canceled. But there it is again on your bank statement — the charge that won't die. Welcome to the world of zombie subscriptions.

Zombie subscriptions are recurring charges that keep billing you even after you think you've canceled. They cost Americans billions of dollars every year — and you might be paying for one right now.

Why Zombie Subscriptions Happen

1. You Didn't Actually Cancel

The most common cause. Many companies use dark patterns to make cancellation confusing:

• Clicked "Cancel" but didn't complete all 5+ steps
• Canceled the app but not the subscription
• Unsubscribed from emails thinking that canceled the service
• Deleted the app without canceling the subscription — this is the #1 mistake

2. Auto-Renewal Kicked In

You signed up for a "free trial" or annual plan and forgot about it. Some services even re-enable subscriptions after a temporary pause.

3. The Company Ignored Your Cancellation

Some companies "process" your cancellation but don't actually stop billing. This is illegal under the FTC's Click-to-Cancel rule, but enforcement takes time.

4. Your Bank Transferred the Charge

Got a new card? Banks use "account updater" services that automatically transfer recurring charges to your new card number. The subscription follows you.

How to Find Zombie Subscriptions

The Manual Way

1. Pull your last 3 months of bank statements — every account, every card
2. Highlight every recurring charge
3. Google unfamiliar merchant names (see our mystery charge identifier)
4. Look for small amounts ($5–$15) — zombies hide in plain sight

The Fast Way

Check Your App Store Subscriptions

• iPhone: Settings → Your Name → Subscriptions
• Android: Google Play → Profile → Payments & subscriptions
• Amazon: Account → Memberships & Subscriptions
• PayPal: Settings → Payments → Manage Automatic Payments

How to Kill a Zombie for Good

Step 1: Cancel Directly

Go to the service's website and cancel. Get confirmation. Check our cancel guides for 440+ services for direct cancellation links.

Step 2: Cancel Through Your App Store

If you subscribed through Apple or Google, cancel there too. See our App Store refund guide.

Step 3: Remove Payment Methods

Log into the service and remove your saved card or PayPal. Can't log in? Contact support and request they delete your payment information.

Step 4: Nuclear Options

• Request a new card number from your bank
• Use virtual cards — freeze or delete them instantly
• Block the merchant — some banks let you block specific charges
• File a chargeback if the company keeps billing after confirmed cancellation

Step 5: Get Your Money Back

You may be entitled to refunds for charges made after you canceled. Read our subscription refund guide for the full process.

The Worst Zombie Offenders

Based on consumer complaints, these companies are most reported for charging after cancellation:

• Planet Fitness — requires certified mail or in-person cancellation
• Adobe — early termination fees on "monthly" plans (how to avoid the fee)
• Xfinity — equipment return required to stop billing
• SiriusXM — aggressive retention, may re-enable after "canceling"
• NYTimes — requires phone call to cancel digital subscription

Prevent Future Zombies

• Use virtual cards for free trials — they can't charge a dead card
• Set calendar reminders before free trials end
• Screenshot every cancellation confirmation
• Review statements monthly — or use JustCancel to automate it
• Use our subscription calculator to see true annual costs

FAQ

What is a zombie subscription?

A recurring charge that continues appearing on your statement after you believe you've canceled. This can happen from failed cancellation processes, auto-renewal traps, or companies making it intentionally difficult to cancel.

How do I find zombie subscriptions?

Review your last 3 months of statements for recurring charges, especially small amounts ($5–$20). JustCancel can scan your statement automatically.

Can I get a refund for zombie charges?

Yes, often. Contact the company first with your cancellation confirmation. If they refuse, dispute with your bank. The FTC Click-to-Cancel rule is on your side.