Ask Dale: I forgot to cancel a free trial, and I'm out $100!

It's an all too common scenario. You sign up for a free trial of a service or app, intending to cancel before the trial period is over. But life gets busy, and before you know it, you've missed the cancellation deadline, and you're now being charged a significant amount of money for a service you didn't want or need. It's frustrating, and it can be challenging to know what to do. But don't worry, TrustDALE is here to help.

First and foremost, it's essential to read the terms and conditions before signing up for any free trial. Many companies make it difficult to cancel their services, and some may even require you to call or email to cancel, rather than having an easy online cancellation process. By knowing the cancellation policies upfront, you'll be better equipped to avoid any unwanted charges.

If you do find yourself in a situation where you've missed the cancellation deadline and have been charged for a service you didn't want or need, the first step is to contact the company directly. Explain your situation, and ask if they would be willing to refund your money. Be polite but firm, and make it clear that you did not intend to continue using the service beyond the trial period.

If the company refuses to refund your money, it may be time to escalate the issue. One great option is to dispute the charge with your credit card company. If you can provide evidence that you did not intend to continue using the service beyond the trial period, they may be willing to reverse the charge. Be sure to provide as much documentation as possible to support your claim, including emails or other communication with the company.

Ultimately, the best way to avoid unwanted charges is to be vigilant when signing up for free trials. Make sure you read the terms and conditions carefully, and set a reminder to cancel the service before the trial period ends. But if you do find yourself in a situation where you're out $100 or more, don't panic. Follow the steps above, and you'll be well on your way to resolving the issue. And remember, if you need assistance, TrustDALE is always here to help.

TrustDALE is unique in that we don’t just solve problems for consumers who use TrustDALE recommended companies, we will explore opportunities for resolution on your behalf with companies that are not on the TrustDALE.com website. This is a free service to consumers. 

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