I have a iPhone 12 when I try to update my free apps the message comes up that billing problem update payment methods. I don’t have a good card or money to update my free apps what do I do
[Re-Titled by Moderator]
iPhone 12, iOS 17
If it is asking for a payment method then you have no option but to enter one such as a credit or debit card. Read the support article Add a payment method to your Apple Account - Apple Support about how to do that.
If you do not have a credit card, a debit card may be acceptable instead. See Payment methods that you can use with your Apple ID - Apple Support Note that that article can be a bit confusing because it may say you can use account balance, but for some items you must have a credit or debit card present even if account balance will be charged first.
If you do not have a card, see if somebody is willing to add you as a member of their Family Sharing group ( Set up Family Sharing - Apple Support ). They will, however, ultimately be responsible for any purchases you make should you not have sufficient personal account balance to cover any charges. If you are not a full adult they may wish to use Approve what kids buy with Ask to Buy - Apple Support to restrict your purchasing ability until you have your own card and can leave the group.
Sometimes a card need only be presented once. If you are using your account for the first time:
Sign in to your Apple Account - 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."
See if somebody is willing to enter their card to satisfy this requirement, then remove it immediately.
If it is insisting that a card be present then you will not be able to make that purchase without one. I have found that items that are completely free do not require a card be present, but I also have a very old account that may have different rules.
Apple requires that you have a working and active payment method on file to use and download apps from the App Store.
To add a payment method to your Apple ID, refer to this article ⇢
Add a payment method to your Apple ID - Apple Support
To change or remove a payment method to your Apple ID, refer to this article ⇢
If you need to change or update your Apple ID payment method - Apple Support
Still need help?
How do I fix payment method issues while updating free apps on my iPhone?
