You can download free apps, but you may need to have a valid payment method on file, even if the app you want to download is free.
You can have a credit card / debit card on file and an Apple Account balance.
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.
Free apps has also In-app pruchase.
See -> Buy additional app features with in-app purchases and subscriptions
Buy additional app features with in-app purchases and subscriptions
See also -> Apple Media Services Terms and Conditions
Legal - Apple Media Services - Apple
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If your payment method is declined in the App Store or iTunes Store, see ->
If your payment method is declined in the App Store or iTunes Store - Apple Support
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How to complete your purchase if a payment failed or was declined
- On your iPhone or iPad, open the Settings app.
- Tap your name.
- Tap Payment & Shipping.
- Add a different payment method and remove the old one.
- Try to complete your purchase.
If you still can't make a purchase
See the following Apple articles:
Payment methods you can use with your Apple ID
Payment methods you can use with your Apple ID – Apple Support (UK)
fyi: Not all credit & debit cards seem to work with App Store / iTunes Store, try a different one, or preferably a credit card. If your card is not accepted as a paymenf method, you need to contact your bank.
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 need to change or update your Apple ID payment method
If you need to change or update your Apple ID payment method - Apple Support
- If you want to change your card, add first the new card, then remove the old one.
- or if you want to use your Apple ID balance, you need to set your Apple ID balance as your default payment.
Add a payment method to your Apple ID -> Add a payment method to your Apple ID – Apple Support (UK)
- If you want to change your card, you need to add first the new card, then remove the old card.
Add money to your Apple Account balance -> Add money to your Apple Account balance - Apple Support
If you have a valid payment method on file, instead of buying or order an App Store & iTunes gift card, you can Add money to your Apple Account balance anytime, no gift card needed, see -> Apple Gift Card - Apple (UK)
If you have followed all the steps and instructions and if you still need help, get support from Apple directly -> Get Support or call Apple in your region see -> Contact Apple for support and service or check -> here for more support and assistance.