You can request refunds from Apple for App Store/iTunes purchases, subscriptions, Apple Store hardware, and AppleCare — but the path depends on what you bought. For apps/media use reportaproblem.apple.com; for physical products bought from Apple use the Apple Returns portal or visit a store within 14 days. AppleCare refunds follow specific prorated rules. Refund processing times vary by payment method and bank.
Learn how to get a refund from Apple in 2025–2026: steps for App Store, Apple Store, subscriptions, AppleCare, eligibility, fees, and contact options.
Overview — what kinds of Apple refunds exist
Apple issues refunds across several buckets: App Store / iTunes / Apple Books purchases and in-app purchases; subscriptions bought through Apple; physical products (iPhone, Mac, accessories) bought from Apple Online or Retail; AppleCare plans; and payment reversals for Apple Pay charges. Each has its own process, eligibility windows, and timelines. The fastest route is the relevant self-service portal — otherwise contact Apple Support.
How to request a refund for apps, media, or in-app purchases (quick steps)
- Go to reportaproblem.apple.com and sign in with the Apple ID that made the purchase.
- Find the item, click “I’d like to” and select Request a refund, then pick a reason and submit.
- Apple will review and usually replies by email with an approval or decline (times vary). If approved, the money is returned to the original payment method. For family purchases, the family organizer can view shared charges.
How to get a refund for Apple Store purchases (hardware & accessories)
- Online or Retail: Apple’s standard return window for items bought directly from Apple is 14 calendar days from receipt. The item should be in original condition with all accessories and packaging for a full refund. Bring your receipt or order number to a store, or start the return online via Apple’s Returns & Refunds page.
- Holiday exceptions: Apple sometimes temporarily extends return windows during holiday seasons — check the Returns page at purchase time.
Subscriptions & recurring charges (cancel + request refund)
- To stop future charges, cancel the subscription via App Store → your account → Subscriptions or via Settings on iPhone/Mac.
- To request a refund for an already-charged subscription period, use reportaproblem.apple.com (select the subscription charge and request refund). Apple evaluates eligibility (unused service time, accidental charge, etc.).
AppleCare and service plan refunds
- If you cancel AppleCare within 30 days of purchase, you’re typically eligible for a full refund (less the value of any service already provided). After 30 days, AppleCare refunds are usually prorated. Use the Cancel AppleCare flow on Apple Support or contact AppleCare.
Payment method, timing & how long refunds take
- Apple issues refunds to the original payment method. Credit/debit card refunds can take several business days to appear (bank-dependent). Apple Pay refunds generally process back to the underlying card; merchant processing times vary. If Apple approves a refund, you’ll receive an email and can check the refund status in your purchase history.
Common reasons Apple will (and won’t) refund
Likely to approve: accidental purchases, duplicate charges, purchase not received, app doesn’t work as advertised, unauthorized purchases. Less likely: buyer’s remorse for consumed digital content, purchases made outside the allowed return window for physical goods, items lacking original packaging or missing parts for hardware returns. Apple reviews each request case-by-case.
If Apple declines your refund request — next steps
- Double-check eligibility and documentation (receipt, order number, screenshots).
- Contact Apple Support via chat or phone and reference your reportaproblem request.
- If the charge was fraudulent, contact your bank or card issuer to initiate a chargeback while keeping Apple informed. Use chargebacks only after attempting Apple’s internal process.
Area-specific notes (examples)
- United States & UK: Apple’s 14-day hardware returns and App Store refund portal are standard; local consumer laws may give extra rights (e.g., EU 14-day cooling-off for distance sales).
- EU / EEA: Consumer protection rules often provide additional rights for faulty goods or distance contracts; refunds/returns processes still start through Apple’s channels.
- Apple Retail Store customers: In-person returns are typically fastest—bring ID and order confirmation.
Summary Table
| Purchase Type | How to Request Refund | Typical Window / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| App Store / iTunes / in-app | reportaproblem.apple.com → Request a refund | Case-by-case; quick online submission. |
| Subscriptions | Cancel in App Store; request refund via reportaproblem | Refunds evaluated; cancel to stop renewals. |
| Apple Store hardware | Start return online or visit store within 14 days | Item must be in original condition; seasonal extensions possible. |
| AppleCare | Cancel via AppleCare support; prorated/refund rules apply | Full refund within 30 days minus service used; prorated afterward. |
| Apple Pay / merchant disputes | Merchant refund; bank processing times vary | Refund returns to payment method; allow several business days. |
FAQs About How Do I Get A Refund From Apple
Q: Where do I start a refund for an app or movie I bought from Apple?
A: Sign in to reportaproblem.apple.com, find the purchase, choose Request a refund, and submit your reason. Apple will email you their decision.
Q: How long do Apple Store refunds take to reach my card?
A: Apple processes refunds promptly, but your bank may take several business days to post the credit. If not seen after a week, contact your bank.
Q: I bought an iPhone from Apple — can I return it?
A: Yes — if it was bought from Apple directly, you generally have 14 calendar days from receipt to return for a refund (packaging and accessories required).
Q: I was charged for a subscription I didn’t use — can I get a refund?
A: Possibly. Cancel the subscription immediately and request a refund via reportaproblem.apple.com; Apple reviews eligibility.
Q: Who do I contact if reportaproblem is unclear or Apple declines?
A: Contact Apple Support (chat/phone) and reference your reportaproblem case; if the charge is fraudulent, also notify your card issuer.
Start refund requests or learn more on Apple’s official support pages: Request a refund for apps or content — https://support.apple.com/en-us/118223.