Are you paying for services you forgot you had? From streaming platforms to fitness apps and forgotten trials, recurring subscriptions can drain your budget fast. One of the easiest ways to cut unnecessary expenses and take back control is to cancel unused subscriptions.
If you’re serious about reducing recurring expenses, the first step is to cancel unused subscriptions and free up money for more important goals.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to identify, review, and eliminate subscriptions that no longer serve you, saving you money each and every month.
1. Make a List of Every Subscription You're Paying For
Start by reviewing your:
Bank statements
Credit card activity
PayPal and Apple/Google Play purchases
List everything you find, from streaming and cloud storage to meal boxes and monthly memberships.
Tip: Use apps like Rocket Money (formerly Truebill) or Trim to automatically detect and track recurring charges.
2. Decide What You Actually Use
Now go through the list and ask:
Have I used this in the last 30 days?
Do I still want or need this?
Is there a free alternative?
If the answer is no, it’s time to cancel.
Want help identifying where your money goes? Check out our guide to tracking monthly expenses
3. Organize by Priority
Sort your list into three categories:
Must keep (essential services like cloud backups)
Optional (entertainment, learning platforms)
Cancel now (things you forgot or don’t use)
Focus first on cutting “Cancel now” items – you’ll be surprised how much you save.
When you cancel unused subscriptions, you instantly reduce wasteful spending without changing your lifestyle.
4. Learn How Each Subscription Cancels
Every platform is different. Some let you cancel in one click; others make it tricky. Review:
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Billing dates
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Cancellation policies
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Whether it’s billed through an app store, your card, or PayPal
Save confirmation emails when you cancel so you’re protected against unwanted future charges.
5. Set Reminders Before Renewal Dates
Subscriptions often renew silently. Add calendar reminders a few days before the next billing cycle so you have time to cancel if needed.
You can also use budgeting apps with alerts for upcoming payments.
6. Watch Out for Free Trials That Turn Paid
If you’ve ever signed up for a “free” trial and forgotten to cancel, you’re not alone. Mark trial end dates in your calendar or consider using virtual cards that expire automatically.
7. Contact Customer Support for Discounts
Before canceling a paid plan you still want, try this script:
“Hi, I’m considering canceling due to the cost. Do you have a discount or promo rate available?”
Many companies offer 10–50% off to retain customers especially if you’re a long-time user.
8. Switch to Free or Cheaper Alternatives
Replace premium services with:
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YouTube instead of multiple streaming services
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Canva Free instead of premium design tools
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Google Docs instead of Microsoft 365
There’s a free tool or version for almost everything.
9. Keep an Eye on Your Statements
Even after canceling, check your bank and card statements for unexpected charges. Sometimes:
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Subscriptions don’t cancel properly
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You’re charged through a secondary account
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You forget about an annual plan
Dispute any unauthorized charges immediately with your bank or card issuer.
10. Review Subscriptions Every 3 Months
Make this a habit: review your subscriptions quarterly. Life changes, and so do your needs. Staying proactive keeps your budget lean and purposeful.
Even canceling two or three subscriptions could save you $30–$50+ per month. That’s hundreds per year back in your wallet.
Make it a habit to cancel unused subscriptions every quarter and redirect those savings into an emergency fund or investments.
Where Should You Put the Money You Save?
Now that you’re cutting unnecessary expenses, don’t let that money vanish into thin air. Redirect it toward:
Your emergency fund
Paying off debt
Investing in a Roth IRA or brokerage account
A guilt-free fund for something you actually value
Need help building a savings habit? Read how to create a simple monthly budget
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What’s the easiest way to manage subscriptions?
Apps like Rocket Money, Trim, and Mint help track and manage subscriptions automatically.
Is it worth canceling $5 subscriptions?
Absolutely. Small amounts add up quickly. Canceling 3–4 unused services can save hundreds a year.
How often should I review my subscriptions?
Every 3–6 months. Set a recurring reminder to do a quick review of your spending.
What if I don’t recognize a charge?
Search the name online. Many billing descriptions are vague. If unsure, call your bank to dispute.
Can I pause a subscription instead of canceling?
Yes! Some services offer pause options for 1–3 months. Check your account settings first.
