How long does it take to receive a refund for an accidental App Store purchase?

My son accidentally purchased an item in the App Store. I just noticed it. For some of the purchases, it says that the money will be refunded. How long should I expect the refund to take?


[Re-Titled by Moderator]

iPhone 16 Pro Max, iOS 18

Posted on May 30, 2025 7:24 AM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on May 30, 2025 7:29 AM

Check out this Support Article:

If your refund is approved, the funds are applied to the same payment method that you used to buy the item. Here's how long it takes for a refund to appear on your account or statement:

  • Store credit—It might take up to 48 hours to see the refund in your Apple Account balance.
  • Mobile phone billing—It might take up to 60 days for the statement to show the refund. Processing time might be affected by your carrier. You can contact your carrier for an update.
  • Credit and debit cards, Apple Pay, Apple Cash, and all other payment methods—It might take up to 30 days for the statement to show the refund. If you don't see the refund after 30 days, contact your financial institution.

Check the status of a refund for apps or content that you bought from Apple - Apple Support


If you want to review the purchases by your son before they are made, then you may want to check out the Ask to Buy option. Refunds are not guaranteed, so this is a good way to not allow any charge in the first place.

Approve what kids buy with Ask to Buy - Apple Support


2 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

May 30, 2025 7:29 AM in response to AntonChumak

Check out this Support Article:

If your refund is approved, the funds are applied to the same payment method that you used to buy the item. Here's how long it takes for a refund to appear on your account or statement:

  • Store credit—It might take up to 48 hours to see the refund in your Apple Account balance.
  • Mobile phone billing—It might take up to 60 days for the statement to show the refund. Processing time might be affected by your carrier. You can contact your carrier for an update.
  • Credit and debit cards, Apple Pay, Apple Cash, and all other payment methods—It might take up to 30 days for the statement to show the refund. If you don't see the refund after 30 days, contact your financial institution.

Check the status of a refund for apps or content that you bought from Apple - Apple Support


If you want to review the purchases by your son before they are made, then you may want to check out the Ask to Buy option. Refunds are not guaranteed, so this is a good way to not allow any charge in the first place.

Approve what kids buy with Ask to Buy - Apple Support


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How long does it take to receive a refund for an accidental App Store purchase?

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