So I want to download an app, but it won’t let me because supposedly I need to add a payment method. I do not have a credit card or anything like that so I can’t, What do I do?? I’ve tried looking it up on google but nothing works.
[Re-Titled by Moderator]
iPhone 11 Pro Max
On the App Store, even if you're trying to download a free app, Apple requires you to have a payment method on file for your Apple ID. This is mainly for verification purposes and to ensure that you're a legitimate user. However, you can still proceed without adding a credit card by following these steps:
1. Choose "None" as the Payment Method:
Apple allows you to select "None" as a payment method when setting up your Apple ID. Here's how you can do it:
- Open the "Settings" app on your iPhone.
- Tap on your name at the top.
- Tap on "Payment & Shipping."
- Tap on "Add Payment Method."
- Choose "None" as the payment method.
2. Use iTunes on a Computer:
Another way to set up your Apple ID without adding a payment method is by using iTunes on a computer. Here's how:
- Open iTunes on your computer.
- Sign in with your Apple ID or create a new one.
- Try to download a free app from the iTunes Store.
- When prompted to add a payment method, choose "None."
3. Use an Existing Apple ID:
If you've already created an Apple ID without a payment method, you can try using that Apple ID to download the app.
4. Contact Apple Support:
If you've tried the above steps and are still having trouble, you might want to contact Apple Support for assistance. They can help you troubleshoot the issue and guide you through the process.
Remember that Apple's policies and procedures can change, so the steps mentioned here might vary slightly based on your device's iOS version and your location. Additionally, make sure you're following legitimate sources for information and support to avoid scams.
If you have a prepaid gift card like a Visa gift card, you can try to enter that credit card number in and see if it will let you continue.
The answer is in the thread you posted to without reading. Please go back and read the other messages in the thread.
SleviraJ35 wrote:
So I want to download an app, but it won’t let me because supposedly I need to add a payment method. I do not have a credit card or anything like that so I can’t, What do I do?? I’ve tried looking it up on google but nothing works.
You have to provide a payment method to verify the account. Until you do, you can't download anything.
Contact Apple and they will let you know what the issue is. We have no way of knowing any problem with your account that is preventing you from downloading an app when you have already added a payment method.
Appleofknowledge333 wrote:
This issue of not being able to download free apps without submitting my credit card info is going to lead me to dropping apple products if it isn’t fixed. It creates an avenue for hacking.
Using your card to download apps or even make purchases in the App Store does not transmit your card information to the developers of the app. It is much safer than using your card to get gas, at a restaurant, or at a retail store where your card information is transferred. The only way your card would be charged is if you downloaded an app with a free trial and did not cancel 24 hours before it ends, used in-app purchase, or signed up for a subscription.
Developers have to pay to have their apps in the App Store every year and it also costs time and money for them to create the apps for you to download. They offer these deferred payment options in hopes you will like their app enough to support their efforts. Without a payment method, there is no chance that they will be able to recoup their costs. You are not required to use an in-app purchase, but if that option is there you would need a payment method.
Legorj2353 wrote:
I can’t get my original apps back on my phone because I need a payment method. What should I do? How do I go around this without using the payment method? Can you help me please The apps I’m trying to get back on my phone are free. Shouldn’t have to pay for them. It is wrong it messed up.
You will want to contact Apple directly to make sure you do not have any charges pending. This can occur if a subscription renews and the payment method is declined. You will not be able to update or download apps until that issue is resolved. You are not charged to get the apps back on your phone, but will be required to pay any amount due first.
Contact Apple for support and service - Apple Support
You will see that a payment method may be required even if you do not owe money. Again, you will not be charged to get your apps back that you already paid for. The solution in this case is to provide a valid payment method.
dzulani wrote:
I hi I want download without payment
The developers of the apps also want you to try out there apps without charging you, but they do offer additional purchases so they can stay in business if you do find their work useful. Without a payment method there is no chance that they will be able to have any income. It costs developers each year to have the apps in the store and also time and money to create and continue to update them. You are not required to use the additional purchases, but may be required to have a payment method on file in case you do.
Mac Jim ID wrote:
Without a payment method there is no chance that they will be able to have any income.
Apple could just use personal balance for this. However, personal balance is not a guaranteed method of payment, particularly if a user does not keep it topped up. Apple has its own reasons, which it doesn't outline for us, but I could see that having an open-ended payment method may be more desirable if there is something such as an on-going subscription. I don't know if this is a something a developer can require for an app in the store. I know I have apps with in-app options (I don't use any) and I downloaded those with no payment method. This situation may be more complicated with both Apple and developers having separate requirements as I posted a while back.
Mariasav14 wrote:
I’m trying to download app and it asking me for payment method and I don’t have a credit card
Do you have a debit card? Do you have a friend with one? Can you join a Family Sharing group where you don't need your own card?
User12_34 wrote:
I’ve never had this problem until just then. The app is free. I tried adding my card but the red writing next to the card said (Apple Pay) and (failed) I have no idea what this means. I don’t have any money in my account at the moment, is that the problem? I’ve also seen people say to pick the “none” option but there is no “none” option.
The card that you add to Apple Pay does need to be valid with money in your account if it is a debit card. To verify the payment method Apple will attempt to do a small dollar amount charge that will just show as pending. This pending charge will go away after a short time and never be processed to actually deduct the charge from your account.
Some cards need to have the bank the card is issued from activate it for use with Apple Pay. You will need to contact the bank to verify that it is set up for use with Apple Pay.
If you receive a message that a valid payment method is required, you will need to add a card and "None" will not be an option.
I had to fix this problem by creating a new temporary icloud account. even though this might include making up a whole new entire gmail.. it was worth it. I put in my card info in my payment info. And it worked. I was then able to download new apps on my phone. Even with a low bank account. Hope this helps
Charli-123 wrote:
It won’t let me download apps with out a payment method
That is a true statement. You need a valid payment method for your Apple ID to download even free apps.
In rare circumstances you may be able to have an account without an Apple ID, but not if you have any current or former subscriptions or apps that have in-app purchases→Add a payment method to your Apple ID- Apple Support
Wisewardenofbeigerealm wrote:
What I can do to download free apps without payment method
You won't be able to use the App Store without a valid payment method. Many apps that are free to download, also include options for purchases like Free Trials, In-App Purchases, and Subscription.
The option “None” is no longer available. It’s only gives either credit or PayPal.
You would become enlightened by reading the post right above yours in this thread, or almost any post on the 12 pages of the thread.
How to download apps without payment method?
