Getting a refund for an app or in-app purchase you bought from the Apple App Store is possible in certain situations. The App Store has a generous refund policy that allows you to request a refund within 90 days of purchase. Here are the key things to know about getting refunds from the App Store.
When can I request a refund from the App Store?
You can request a refund from Apple in the following situations:
- You accidentally purchased an app or in-app item.
- The app or in-app purchase doesn’t work as expected or described.
- Your child made a purchase without your knowledge or permission.
- You didn’t receive what you paid for from the developer.
- The app stopped functioning or was no longer supported.
As long as it’s within 90 days of purchase, Apple will consider refund requests for any of these reasons. The sooner you request the refund after purchase, the better.
How do I request a refund from Apple?
To request an App Store refund from Apple, follow these steps:
- Open the App Store app on your iPhone or iPad.
- Tap on your profile icon in the top right corner.
- Select ‘Purchase history’.
- Find the app or in-app purchase you want to refund.
- Tap ‘Report a Problem’ next to the purchase.
- Choose ‘I’d like a refund’ and select a reason.
- Enter any details to explain your refund request.
- Confirm you want Apple to review your request.
You can also submit a refund request to Apple through the iTunes Store on your computer:
- Open iTunes and sign in.
- Click on Account > Purchase history.
- Find the app or in-app item you want to refund.
- Click the Report a Problem link.
- Select ‘I’d like a refund’ and choose a reason.
- Add any extra details to support your request.
- Click Submit to send your request to Apple.
How long does an App Store refund take?
Apple states that most refund requests are processed within 48 hours. The refund will be credited back to your original payment method.
Here are the typical refund time frames:
- Credit card purchases – Refund posted within 1-2 billing cycles.
- Debit card purchases – Refund posted within 10 business days.
- PayPal purchases – Refund posted to PayPal account within 24 hours.
- Gift cards or store credit – Credit added to your Apple ID balance immediately.
You’ll receive a confirmation email from Apple when your App Store refund request is processed successfully.
What happens when I get a refund from Apple?
When your App Store refund is approved, here’s what happens:
- The app purchase will be removed from your account and purchase history.
- Your Apple ID balance or payment method will be credited for the amount you paid.
- You’ll lose access to the refunded app and any in-app content.
- Refunds can’t be reversed, so you would have to purchase the app again.
Getting a refund for an in-app purchase will remove that content from the app on your devices. But the app itself will remain installed.
Can I get a partial or pro-rated refund?
Unfortunately, Apple’s App Store refund policy does not allow for partial or pro-rated refunds in cases where you’ve used the app or in-app content and want a refund just for the unused portion.
It’s all or nothing – you can get a full refund within 90 days or no refund at all if it’s been more than 90 days since the purchase date.
What reasons for a refund does Apple accept?
Apple provides a list of valid reasons you can select from when requesting an App Store refund. Typically, these include:
- Accidental purchase – You didn’t mean to buy the app or in-app item.
- Bought by mistake – You tapped the wrong item to purchase.
- Unauthorized purchase – Your child or someone else bought without consent.
- App doesn’t work as expected – The app is buggy, defective or doesn’t match the description.
- App stopped working – The app crashed, froze, or no longer launches.
- App not supported – The app requires newer iOS than your device can run.
- Didn’t receive content – You paid for in-app content but didn’t get it.
- Other reason – You can elaborate with extra details.
Providing as much context and explanation as possible will help expedite Apple’s review of your refund request.
What reasons for a refund does Apple not accept?
Here are some reasons that Apple will likely reject an App Store refund request:
- You simply changed your mind about the app and want your money back.
- You found the app cheaper on another platform.
- You uninstalled and no longer want the app.
- Your free trial ended and you were charged.
- Your subscription renewed and you forgot to cancel.
- Your child spent your money without permission.
- The app worked but you didn’t like it.
Apple considers these situations the buyer’s responsibility, not grounds for a refund. Reading app descriptions carefully before downloading and implementing parental controls can help avoid these issues.
Can I get a refund for an auto-renewing subscription?
You can request a refund for an auto-renewing subscription that renews inadvertently within the same 90 day window as other purchases. However, Apple may still decline the request if you received value from the subscription.
To avoid unwanted subscription charges, be sure to turn off auto-renew at least 24 hours before your next renewal date. You can disable auto-renew for all subscriptions by following these steps:
- Open the App Store and tap your profile icon.
- Tap Subscriptions and tap your subscription.
- Turn off the Auto-renew toggle.
Can I dispute a declined App Store refund request?
If Apple rejects your App Store refund request, you can dispute the decision by contacting Apple Support directly. Have your invoice details ready and explain clearly why you feel you deserve the refund.
If the dispute is related to a developer’s app or in-app purchase, Apple may redirect you to the developer first to try resolving the issue. Make sure to calmly but firmly explain why you’re unhappy with the app and feel a refund is warranted.
If you’ve tried all other options, initiating a chargeback on your credit card is another way to dispute a rejected App Store refund. But keep in mind that Apple may ban your account if you perform a chargeback.
Can I request a refund directly from the app developer?
For issues related specifically to an app’s content or performance, you may have better luck getting a refund directly from the app developer, especially for purchases older than 90 days.
Most apps have contact information for the developer listed in the App Store description. Reach out to explain the issue and politely request they refund your purchase. Developers have the ability to refund App Store transactions through the Payments and Financial Reports section in App Store Connect.
What happens if I refund fraudulently?
Requesting App Store refunds under false pretenses or pretending you didn’t receive content from an in-app purchase constitutes refund fraud. Apple investigates excessive refund activity for potential abuse.
Consequences for refund fraud can include:
- Getting banned from the App Store and losing your account
- Forfeiting real refunds you might qualify for in the future
- Having your case sent to collections or law enforcement
So always be truthful when asking for App Store refunds and only request them when genuinely warranted, not simply to get free apps.
How can I prevent needing a refund?
The easiest way to avoid the hassle of getting refunds is to prevent mistaken, accidental, and fraudulent purchases in the first place. Here are some tips:
- Use a password or fingerprint to secure purchases.
- Disable in-app purchases if you have young children.
- Avoid tapping buy buttons too quickly.
- double check subscription renewal dates before downloading.
- Read app descriptions fully before purchasing.
- Think carefully before entering your password.
- Keep your payment method details current.
Implementing even a few of these preventative measures can help minimize situations where you need to request refunds down the road.
What are some app store alternatives?
The Apple App Store is the only place you can get apps for your iPhone, iPad, and other Apple mobile devices. But for other platforms, there are alternative app stores you can use. Here are a few top options:
| Platform | App Store |
|---|---|
| Android | Google Play Store |
| Windows | Microsoft Store |
| Amazon Devices | Amazon Appstore |
| Mac | Mac App Store |
| Chromebook | Google Play Store |
Each app store has its own refund policy. Google Play also offers refunds within 48 hours for apps and in-app purchases. When switching platforms, research the store’s refund policy before purchasing.
Google Play Store Refund Policy
The Google Play Store allows refunds within 48 hours for apps and app content. You’ll get a full refund for paid apps and in-app purchases if requested quickly. Subscriptions can be canceled up to 48 hours before the next billing date.
Microsoft Store Refund Policy
Microsoft grants refunds for apps and in-app purchases within 14 days for most items. Software, games, movies, and TV shows must be requested within 14 days and content cannot have been used or expired.
Amazon Appstore Refund Policy
Amazon provides refunds for apps and in-app purchases within 7 days of the date of purchase. Amazon Coins virtual currency purchases are not refundable, however. And subscriptions renewals after free trials are not eligible for refunds.
Conclusion
Getting a refund for apps and in-app purchases from the App Store is possible in many situations with Apple’s generous refund policy. As long as you request the refund within 90 days and provide valid reasons, you stand a good chance of getting your money back.
Carefully considering purchases, implementing parental controls, and avoiding refund fraud are the keys to a smooth customer experience. And be sure to turn off subscription auto-renew if you no longer want to pay the recurring fee.
With thousands of great apps available across different platforms, comparison shopping and reading reviews can prevent disappointment and the need for refunds down the road. Let the tips outlined here guide you through trouble-free app purchasing and maximum enjoyment of your mobile devices.
