ExpressVPN has built a strong reputation as one of the most reliable VPN services available today. It offers fast connection speeds, high-level encryption, and the ability to access geo-restricted content across the globe. However, circumstances can change—whether you’ve found an alternative VPN, are cutting costs, or simply no longer need the service, knowing how to properly cancel your subscription is key.
TL;DR (Too Long; Didn’t Read)
If you want to cancel your ExpressVPN subscription, the process can be completed in just a few steps through your account dashboard. Make sure to cancel before your billing period ends to avoid being charged again. If you’re within the 30-day money-back guarantee period, you can also request a refund. Always confirm the cancellation and check for confirmation emails.
Why You Might Want to Cancel ExpressVPN
There are several legitimate reasons why users decide to cancel their VPN subscriptions. Some of the most common include:
- Cost considerations: ExpressVPN is one of the more premium-priced services.
- Alternative solutions: Availability of other VPNs with comparable features at lower costs.
- Temporary need: Using a VPN for a short-term project or international trip.
- Technical limitations or device incompatibility: Challenges with using the service on certain devices.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cancel Your ExpressVPN Subscription
Step 1: Log into Your ExpressVPN Account
To begin the cancellation process, go to the ExpressVPN account dashboard. Enter your login credentials associated with your subscription.
Step 2: Access Subscription Settings
Once you’re on the dashboard, find the section titled “Subscription”. This page will show billing information, the next renewal date, and the current plan you’re subscribed to.
Step 3: Turn Off Automatic Renewal
ExpressVPN primarily works on an automatic renewal basis. To stop being billed periodically, you must turn off the automatic renewal setting. Click on “Manage Settings” or “Turn Off Automatic Renewal”.
The system will usually ask for confirmation. You’ll be prompted to verify that you indeed wish to cancel future billing.
Step 4: Confirm Cancellation
After disabling auto-renewal, you should receive a confirmation email from ExpressVPN. Keep this email for your records. Though you won’t be billed for future cycles, your access to the VPN will remain active until the current billing period ends.
Step 5 (Optional): Request a Refund
If you are within the 30-day money-back guarantee window, you have the option to request a full refund, no questions asked. This is how you do it:
- Visit the ExpressVPN Support page.
- Click on the chat icon to access the 24/7 live chat support.
- Tell the customer service representative that you’d like to cancel your account and request a refund.
Refunds typically take up to 5-7 business days, depending on your payment method.
What Happens After Cancellation?
Following your cancellation, a few things will happen:
- You retain service until the end of your subscription period, even if you cancel before that date.
- You won’t be charged again, assuming automatic renewal was correctly turned off.
- Your account credentials will remain intact, so you can reactivate later if desired.
However, any custom configurations (such as settings for routers or manual OpenVPN configurations) will no longer be accessible once your subscription ends.
How to Verify That Your Subscription Has Been Canceled
It is critically important to double-check that the auto-renewal has been successfully disabled.
- Go back to your ExpressVPN Dashboard.
- Under “Subscription”, the status should read “Not Active” or indicate that auto-renewal is turned off.
- Review your email inbox for a cancellation confirmation message.
If you see any signs of continued billing, immediately contact customer support to resolve the issue.
Canceling Through Mobile App Subscriptions (iOS and Android)
If you subscribed through a mobile platform such as the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, canceling must be done via those services. Here’s how:
For iOS Users:
- Go to Settings on your iPhone or iPad.
- Tap on your Apple ID at the top, then Subscriptions.
- Select ExpressVPN from the list.
- Tap Cancel Subscription.
For Android Users:
- Open the Google Play Store.
- Tap on your profile icon, then select Payments & subscriptions → Subscriptions.
- Choose ExpressVPN.
- Tap Cancel Subscription.
In both cases, your ExpressVPN account will remain active until the end of the billing period, similar to cancellations via the desktop site.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Refunds may take several business days, depending on the bank or payment platform.
- If you signed up via a third party like Apple or Google, you must cancel through them—not the ExpressVPN website.
- Deleting the app is not the same as canceling. You must go through the actual cancellation process to stop being billed.
Alternatives to ExpressVPN
If you’re canceling because ExpressVPN doesn’t meet your needs, consider other VPN providers that may align better with your expectations. Some trustworthy alternatives include:
- NordVPN – Known for strong security features and competitive pricing.
- Surfshark – Offers unlimited simultaneous connections.
- CyberGhost – Great for streaming and user-friendly interfaces.
Each provider has different strengths, so take the time to evaluate them based on your specific requirements.
Final Thoughts
Cancelling your ExpressVPN subscription doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you’re trying out another provider or simply taking a break from VPN services, following the steps outlined above ensures that you won’t encounter unexpected charges. Always verify the cancellation and save confirmation details for your records. If you’re within the money-back guarantee window, take advantage of it and receive a full refund with minimal hassle.
An understanding of how subscription management works places you firmly in control of your digital expenditures, helping you make informed decisions in a rapidly evolving tech space.