If you have set your Apple Account balance as your default payment method, your default payment method will be used first by Apple when you need to make a payment.
Some purchases might require you to have a credit card on file, even if you use your Apple Account balance to make the purchase.
See the following Apple articles:
Add a payment method to your Apple ID -> Add a payment method to your Apple ID – Apple Support (UK)
- if you want to use your Apple Account balance, you need to set your Apple Account balance as your default payment.
What you can buy with your Apple Gift Card or Apple Account balance
What you can buy with your Apple Gift Card or Apple Account balance – Apple Support (UK)
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- You can't use your Apple Account balance to send gifts or gift cards.
- If you use Family Sharing, your family members can't spend your Apple Account balance. Funds that you add to your Apple Account balance are only available to you. Find out more about how purchases are billed to your Apple Account balance.
- Some purchases might require you to have a credit card on file, even if you use your Apple Account balance to make the purchase.
If you still need help, get more help and assistant from Apple directly, see Contact Apple for support and service -> Contact Apple for support and service – Apple Support (UK)