If you have opted for a free trial on a platform where you provided your credit card details, you will be charged for the subscription plan you have selected at the end of the free trial.
You may lose your hard-earned money if you do not cancel the free trial. Moreover, it would be a stressful and tedious procedure for you to follow to cancel the trial.
Keep on reading to learn more about what to do if you’re charged after a free trial.
What To Do If You’re Charged After A Free Trial? (6 Steps)
Follow the steps if you are charged for a free trial.
1) Check the Terms and Conditions
Review the terms of the free trial you signed up for. Sometimes, free trials automatically convert into paid subscriptions unless canceled. However, some platforms provide a money-back guarantee that can be claimed if you are charged automatically after a free trial.
2) Contact Customer Support
Reach out to the company’s customer support immediately. Explain that you signed up for a free trial but were charged unexpectedly. Provide them with details like your account information, the date you signed up for the trial, and any confirmation emails you received.
3) Request a Refund
Ask the customer support representative for a refund of the charge. Be polite but firm, and explain why you should receive a refund.
4) Cancel the Subscription
If you no longer wish to continue with the service, ask to cancel your subscription. Make sure to follow any specific cancellation procedures outlined by the company.
5) Document Everything
Keep records of all communications with the company, including emails, chat transcripts, or support ticket numbers. This documentation can be useful if you need to escalate the issue or dispute the charge with your bank or credit card company.
6) Dispute the Charge (if necessary)
If the company refuses to refund the charge and you believe it was unjustified, you can contact your bank or credit card issuer to dispute the charge. Provide them with the documentation you’ve gathered to support your claim.
How To Prevent Future Charges?
If you wish to stop using the services, cancel the subscriptions before the end of the free trial period. Be cautious if a service requires you to enter credit card details. Most of the time, it may have an automatic renewal plan, so be careful.
- Avoid giving out your payment information unless you intend to continue using the service after the trial.
- Use virtual credit cards. Many banks offer virtual credit cards for online purchases. These cards can be set with spending limits or expire after a specific time, preventing unwanted charges.
What Should Be Kept In Mind Before Applying For A Free Trial?
Read all terms and conditions before clicking on accept all. Search the official websites beforehand to learn about cancellation procedures, automatic renewal, and refund options. Make informed choices before subscribing to any free trial.
Customer Rights And Legal Options
Research about official consumer protection websites in your country. Contact using official websites.If you are from the USA, click here to be redirected to the Federal Trade Commission of the USA for more help.
Seek legal advice from a registered practitioner if needed. You can file a complaint with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to help mediate consumer and business disputes.
Bottomline: Cancel Your Free Trial Before The End Of The Trial Period!
A free trial that requires users to enter credit card details may automatically renew after the trial period ends. So be aware and vigilant, and always read the terms and conditions before signing up.
Research the cancellation procedures, automatic renewal, and refund options on the official websites beforehand to avoid click-bait and additional financial burden. If you’re being charged, the first step is to contact customer support and file a complaint with government offices if the issue remains unaddressed.