why Apple Store doesn’t let me download apps, just because I need a card I don’t think I need a card to download games or apps ??!

Apple's official support articles present multiple statements* about requiring the presence of a payment method at times, even for free items. You do not always have to have one, but if you are encountering one of those situations I suspect you have no option but to enter a valid payment method if you wish to continue downloading. Read the support article Add a payment method to your Apple ID - Apple Support about how to do that. The payment method may not be charged if you also have account balance or the item is free, but the payment method has to be present. This next article lists valid payment methods for different countries but note that in this situation Apple Account balance alone apparently may not meet the requirement and you need to use another payment method until you find one that satisfies Apple's requirement (often a credit or debit card): Payment methods that you can use with your Apple ID - Apple Support .

If you have already entered a payment method, use the first link above to check it. If a message appears in red there is a problem with it. If the information is still correct and current, contact your financial institution. Also check this resource --> If your payment method is declined in the App Store or iTunes Store - Apple Support

* Ref.:

Add a payment method to your Apple ID - Apple Support

"To make purchases from the App Store and use subscriptions like iCloud+ and Apple Music, you need at least one payment method on file."

If you can’t download or update apps - Apple Support

- "You might need to have a payment method on file, even if the app that you want to download is free."

https://support.apple.com/HT203905

- If you have any active subscriptions, you must have at least one payment method on file other than Apple ID credit.

- You might not be able to remove a payment method if you have a balance due.

Sign in with your Apple ID - Apple Support

- "When you sign in to the App Store and other media services for the first time, you might need to add a credit card or other payment information."

How apps, content, and subscriptions from Apple are billed - Apple Support

- You can’t charge gifts to your Apple ID balance. If you send a gift or gift card, your primary payment method is charged.

- Some subscriptions might not be charged to your Apple ID balance.

What you can buy with your Apple Gift Card or Apple Account balance - Apple Support

"Some purchases might require that you have a credit card on file, even if you use your Apple Account balance to make the purchase."

Hello Helper129, try this:

The requirement for a payment method, such as a credit card, is a standard practice for setting up an Apple ID and accessing the App Store on iOS devices. Here are a few reasons why Apple might request a payment method even for free apps:

1. Account Verification:

• • Apple often requires a payment method to verify the identity of the user and prevent misuse of the App Store. It helps in ensuring that each user account is associated with a valid payment method.

1. Future Purchases:

• • While you may be attempting to download free apps, Apple sets up the payment method to make future purchases seamless. If you decide to buy a paid app, subscribe to a service, or make in-app purchases, the payment method is already in place.

1. Age Verification:

• • To comply with age restrictions and content regulations, Apple may require users to set up a payment method to verify their age. This is especially relevant for apps or content with age restrictions.

If you don't have a credit card or prefer not to use one, there are alternative methods you can use to set up an Apple ID without a payment method:

Method 1: Use the "None" Option (Credit Card Not Required):

1. Open the App Store and find a free app to download.
2. Tap on the "Get" button next to the app.
3. When prompted to sign in, choose "Create Apple ID."
4. Follow the on-screen instructions until you reach the "Payment Method" screen.
5. Select "None" as the payment method.
6. Complete the remaining steps to create your Apple ID.

Method 2: Add Later (if prompted for payment method during Apple ID creation):

1. Follow the steps to create an Apple ID until you reach the "Payment Method" screen.
2. If prompted for payment details, you can choose "None" to skip it.
3. Once your Apple ID is set up, you can go to your Apple ID settings and add a payment method later if needed.

Remember that you won't be charged for free apps, but having a payment method on file allows for a smoother experience and future purchases. If you encounter specific issues or have questions about your Apple ID setup, you may want to reach out to Apple Support for assistance.

It should only require a payment method if this is an Apple ID of recent creation and has not yet used the stores, or something happened that requires that payment method such as a pending charge or an active subscription.

Once its being required, you cannot get around it in any way and must add a valid payment method to your account.

Once whatever is requiring it has been satisfied correctly, you can request a refund for it, and the payment method can be removed from the account and should not ask for it again unless there is some other charge that cannot be completed a some point.