How can I cancel a failed App Store Transaction?

T0pper-B0ttoms wrote:

Why don’t they just cancel the transaction? When I call them they insist that I update to a valid payment method so they can charge me and then I can ask for a refund? Again, why can’t they just cancel the transaction?

This is a user to user forum. We do not know why Apple does things any more than you do. What I do know is that canceling pending transactions is not what Apple does. If one is pending it has to be completed and then you can ask for a refund. Until then you are frozen in this situation

Once you have paid, here's how to request an app or media refund from Apple (From: Request a refund for apps or content that you bought from Apple - Apple Support - see the article for more detail.) If you bought this in the EU from a third party, see: About purchases not billed through the App Store or the App Store's In-App Purchase system - Apple Support instead.

1. Sign in to https://reportaproblem.apple.com

2. Tap or click "I'd like to," then choose "Request a refund."

3. Choose the reason why you want a refund, then choose Next.

4. Choose the app, subscription, or other item, then choose Submit.

If you were charged for a subscription that you no longer want, you can also cancel the subscription using the directions in this article --> If you want to cancel a subscription from Apple - Apple Support

Read this support article for information about how long it takes to receive a refund (if you are granted one), and how to check the status of a refund for apps or content that you bought from Apple --> Check the status of a refund for apps or content that you bought from Apple - Apple Support

If you are having problems with unauthorized purchases being made on your device you may wish to always require a password for App Store and iTunes purchases.

Click here ➔ Require a password for App Store and iTunes purchases - Apple Support

.