Unable to download free apps due to payment issues

Have you ever downloaded anything from the App Store in the past? If you have, you should be able to download free apps now. If you have not, Apple may require that you enter a credit or debit card (or other accepted payment form) at least temporarily. Apple does not actually say why they require this (doing so on our part would be speculation which is not allowed here), but they do (see below). It may only need to be there temporarily. I have an older account and I have never, ever had to enter a payment method, but they may have changed things in the past 20 years. I certainly do not have a payment method on my account now and I update and download free apps with no problem. Note also that some apps may have free trials that turn into paid subscriptions and those will require a payment method upfront.

Apple's official support articles present multiple statements* about situations 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 then you have no option but to enter a valid payment method if you wish to continue your purchase. See Add a payment method to your Apple Account - Apple Support 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. You might even be able to remove it again immediately once Apple has seen it.

This 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 Account - Apple Support .

If you have already entered a payment method, use the “Add a payment method” 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 Account - 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." Note that there may be a differences between “purchasing” an app for money, and simply “getting” one for free. I get free ones with no payment method.

If you can’t download or update apps on your iPhone or iPad - Apple Support

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

Remove a payment method from your Apple Account - Apple Support

- 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 to your Apple Account on the web or in your device settings - 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."

A payment method is often required for free apps to verify your identity, prevent fraud, and ensure a streamlined process if you decide to make in-app purchases or purchase paid apps later.

It also helps companies manage age restrictions and regional content availability.

For payment issues, I recommend contacting Apple Support for help.

Good luck! 👋🏼😉