Why do I need to add a payment method just to download and update apps

If you get the message >>There is billing problem with previous purchase<< please check ⤵️

If a message says 'billing problem with previous purchase' or 'verification required'

If a message says 'billing problem with previous purchase' or 'verification required' - Apple Support

• If these messages appear, you might be unable to make purchases, download free apps, or use subscriptions. To fix the issue, change your payment method. If you can't change your payment method, you can redeem a gift card and use the balance to pay for any unpaid orders.

• You need to change your payment method

Add a new, valid payment method, then remove the old payment method. If you have an unpaid balance, the new payment method is charged automatically. When the outstanding balance has been paid, you can make new purchases or use subscriptions again.

If you need to change or update your Apple ID payment method

If you need to change or update your Apple ID payment method – Apple Support (UK)

Hello ~ That’s the way Apple has chosen to do things. It looks as if you may have a prior issue and need to contact Apple. You may do so by going to the lower left of this page and clicking on Support or…

Contact Apple for support and service

Have you followed the instructions on your screenshot to view the issue with previous purchase? If you have an unpaid balance nothing can be done until that is taken care of.

~Katana-San~