If you’re trying to change your payment method for your Apple ID and running into issues, you’re not alone. Many Apple users have found themselves unable to update their payment info for various reasons. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the potential causes and solutions to change your payment method for Apple services.
What payment methods does Apple accept?
Apple accepts most major credit and debit cards, including:
- Visa
- Mastercard
- American Express
- Discover
- JCB
- China UnionPay
They do not accept prepaid or gift cards, PayPal, or other third-party payment methods directly. You can use these by attaching them to an Apple Pay Cash card in the Wallet app.
Why can’t I change my payment method?
There are several potential reasons you may be unable to change your payment method for Apple ID services like iCloud storage, Apple Music, or Apple TV+ subscriptions:
Your payment info is outdated
If you’ve had the same card on file for a long time, it may have expired or been reported lost/stolen. You’ll need to update it with your new card number, expiration date, and security code.
Your bank declined the transaction
Sometimes banks will decline a recurring transaction, even if it’s a legitimate charge. Contact your bank to allow future Apple charges or use a different payment method.
You reached the card limit
Apple only allows 4 credit/debit cards on file per Apple ID. If you already have 4 saved, you’ll need to remove an existing card before adding the new one.
Your account is locked
If you enter the wrong payment info too many times, Apple may temporarily lock your account from making changes. You’ll have to contact Apple Support to get it unlocked.
You have an authentication or verification issue
Two-factor authentication, if enabled, requires you to confirm any payment changes with your trusted phone number or device. Without this, the change won’t process. You may also need to check for any emailed receipts requiring action.
There’s a technical problem or bug
In rare cases, system issues on Apple’s end or a bug could prevent payment method changes. Trying again later typically resolves this.
How to change your payment method for Apple ID
If you’ve determined what’s preventing the payment change, here are the steps to update your payment info:
- Open Settings on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch.
- Tap your Apple ID banner at the top of the screen.
- Tap Payment & Shipping.
- Tap your existing payment method.
- Tap Change Payment Method at the bottom.
- Enter your new credit/debit card details and security code.
- Confirm the changes.
You can also change your payment method by:
- Going to account.apple.com and signing in.
- Clicking Payment Methods in the sidebar.
- Clicking Edit next to your current payment.
- Entering your new payment info and following prompts.
Troubleshooting tips
If you still can’t update your payment method after addressing potential causes, try these troubleshooting tips:
- Log out of your Apple ID account completely, then log back in.
- Use a different web browser or device.
- Contact Apple Support via phone, chat, or email for 1-on-1 help.
- If your account was locked, you’ll need to work with Apple Support to regain access.
Alternative payment options
If you absolutely cannot change your Apple ID’s payment method directly, you have a few workarounds:
Use Apple Pay or Apple Cash
Attach your new card to Apple Pay or transfer funds to Apple Cash, then use those mobile payment methods to pay for subscriptions instead of your Apple ID payment method.
Gift subscriptions
You can purchase App Store & iTunes gift cards to add subscription time to your account until you can correct the payment issue.
Family Sharing
Join someone else’s Family Sharing group and use their payment method for services instead of your personal one.
Create a new Apple ID
As a last resort, you may need to create an entirely new Apple ID with your updated payment details to use for purchases and subscriptions.
Preventing payment problems
To avoid running into this issue down the road:
- Set payment method reminders to update your card before it expires.
- Frequently check that your payment info is still valid and not expired/replaced.
- Contact your bank in advance if you will be using your card for Apple subscriptions.
- Ensure Apple can verify your identity with two-factor authentication.
- Monitor your email for any requested actions from Apple when making changes.
Key takeaways
Here are some key points to remember about changing your payment method for Apple ID:
- Outdated, replaced, or invalid payment details are the most common cause.
- You may need to remove old cards to add new ones if you’ve reached the 4-card limit.
- Authentication methods like two-factor confirmation can prevent changes.
- Account locks, system issues, or bugs rarely may block updates.
- You can update payment info directly on your device or via account.apple.com.
- Workarounds include using other payment methods or creating a new Apple ID.
- Proactively maintaining valid payment details prevents problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Apple need my payment information?
Apple requires valid payment details on file so you can conveniently pay for Apple services like iCloud storage upgrades, App Store purchases, Apple Music subscriptions, and more using your Apple ID account. It’s their way of streamlining payments across their ecosystem of products and services.
Can I use PayPal as my Apple ID payment method?
Unfortunately no, Apple does not allow PayPal or other third-party wallets as direct payment methods. You’d need to connect your PayPal account to an Apple Pay Cash card to use it for Apple payments.
What if my card expires before I update it?
Once your card expires, it will be automatically removed from your Apple ID payment methods. Any subscriptions will fail to renew. You’ll need to immediately add your new card details to resume payments and access to those services.
Do I have to use the same payment method across all my Apple devices?
No, you can use different payment methods on each device linked to your Apple ID. However only 4 total cards can be associated with your account at once.
Can I call Apple to change my payment method for me?
Yes, you can call Apple Support or visit an Apple Store for assistance updating your payment details. Be prepared to verify your identity.
Why does Apple limit 4 cards per account?
The 4-card limit is to help prevent fraud and misuse of accounts by limiting how many different payment methods can be continually changed. You can manage the 4 slots by removing old cards when adding new ones.
What if I don’t have another payment method to update?
If you have no other way to pay right now, you can arrange gifting of App Store credit or subscriptions from a family member or friend. Or contact Apple Support to see if there are any other options until you secure a valid payment method.
Summary
Updating your payment method enables seamless use of Apple’s services through your Apple ID. If you encounter issues changing your card, debit, or account details, be sure to methodically check for expired or invalid info, account locks, verification problems, and system errors. Fix the specific cause, then attempt the change again through your device, account settings online, or Apple Support assistance. With some diligence, you should be able to resolve any payment roadblocks.
