How do I use Apple Credit for in-app purchases and subscriptions?

apple credit cant use it? its useless!

just spent $100 on apple credit so I could buy in app purchases and subscriptions…

no matter what I do I cannot physically use the money, it says choose method apple credit $100 clear as day but it’s just they’re.. it’s not a clickable option just a fake box. What next? Pretty ******


[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Original Title: Apple Credit Useless!!

Posted on Feb 24, 2026 1:57 AM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Mar 7, 2026 7:54 PM

Jeff, the replies above miss the point of the question. People are not confused about terminology or what Apple calls the balance. The issue is simple: Apple shows a balance in the account but it cannot actually be selected to pay for anything. Repeating that “Apple Credit doesn’t exist” and linking generic support pages doesn’t address the real problem users are asking about.


What many people run into is that Apple sometimes locks the Apple Account balance until a backup payment method is added. When this happens the balance still shows (for example $100) and appears as a payment option, but it cannot be selected when trying to buy apps, subscriptions or Apple services. The usual fix is straightforward:

- Go to Settings

- Tap your Apple ID

- Tap Payment & Shipping

- Add a debit or credit card


After a card is added Apple usually unlocks the balance and purchases will use the Apple balance first, only charging the card if the balance runs out.


The bigger issue is for parents. Many parents buy Apple Gift Cards specifically so their kids can make purchases without having access to the parent’s credit card, but Apple sometimes requires a card to be added anyway before the balance works. The workaround is to add the card only to unlock the balance and then enable controls so the card can’t be used freely. Parents can turn on Screen Time purchase restrictions or use Family Sharing with Ask to Buy so every purchase requires approval. That way the gift card balance is used first and the credit card cannot be spent without the parent approving it.

14 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Mar 7, 2026 7:54 PM in response to Jeff Donald

Jeff, the replies above miss the point of the question. People are not confused about terminology or what Apple calls the balance. The issue is simple: Apple shows a balance in the account but it cannot actually be selected to pay for anything. Repeating that “Apple Credit doesn’t exist” and linking generic support pages doesn’t address the real problem users are asking about.


What many people run into is that Apple sometimes locks the Apple Account balance until a backup payment method is added. When this happens the balance still shows (for example $100) and appears as a payment option, but it cannot be selected when trying to buy apps, subscriptions or Apple services. The usual fix is straightforward:

- Go to Settings

- Tap your Apple ID

- Tap Payment & Shipping

- Add a debit or credit card


After a card is added Apple usually unlocks the balance and purchases will use the Apple balance first, only charging the card if the balance runs out.


The bigger issue is for parents. Many parents buy Apple Gift Cards specifically so their kids can make purchases without having access to the parent’s credit card, but Apple sometimes requires a card to be added anyway before the balance works. The workaround is to add the card only to unlock the balance and then enable controls so the card can’t be used freely. Parents can turn on Screen Time purchase restrictions or use Family Sharing with Ask to Buy so every purchase requires approval. That way the gift card balance is used first and the credit card cannot be spent without the parent approving it.

Feb 24, 2026 4:20 AM in response to NotHappyJan159

Hi, some develops may not accept payment via Apple Account. Apple may also require another form of backup payment method such as a credit or debit card. We don’t have access to your personal or financial information, so if you require more specifics you’ll need to contact Apple Support.


Click the link below, scroll down and enter your country in the drop down menu. You’ll then be able to select from various ways of contacting Apple Support.


https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201232


Mar 8, 2026 3:58 AM in response to NotHappyJan159

If you read my second post, dated February 24, I clearly stated a backup payment may be required. I then explained we don’t have access to your personal or financial information and you can easily call Apple Support to resolve the payment issues and they can answer your questions.


I’m sorry you found the experience frustrating and confusing. Apple and Apple Support do not participate in the communities here. They only moderate our posts to insure all user guidelines are followed in regard to content and user behavior. Everyone commenting and posting are just fellow Apple users sharing their knowledge and experiences.


Your comments will not be received by Apple. Apple will make changes based partially on the feedback they receive through their official channel, linked below.


Product Feedback - Apple

Feb 24, 2026 2:21 AM in response to NotHappyJan159

That’s because there’s no such thing as Apple Credit. I think you’ve assumed things about Apple Account that are incorrect. Apple Account is an online only account where Apple Gift Cards can be redeemed and used for the purchase of some Apple services and products. I’ve linked several Apple Support articles so you can learn more about Apple Account funds.


https://support.apple.com/en-us/118245


https://support.apple.com/guide/iphone/apple-account-iph5f869c0af/ios


Mar 2, 2026 6:16 AM in response to NotHappyJan159

I’ve provided links to articles about the use of Apple Account and what is eligible for purchase using the account balance. Links were provided for you to contact Apple Support and Apple Gift card support. In my reply I gave several examples including, developers may decline payment made via the balance and Apple possibly requiring a backup payment.


No one in the communities here have access to your personal or financial information. We can’t specifically answer the question. You’ll need to contact Apple Support directly.


If you’re in the US, please call  1-800-MY-APPLE, or outside the US, consult the support articles below. In Canada, call 1-800-263-3394.


Contact Apple for support and service - Apple Support

Feb 24, 2026 3:47 AM in response to Jeff Donald

apologies for not using the correct terminology.

“apple balance” says $100.

Yes I have paid for 2 x $50 apple gift cards to spend on in app purchases

please explain why i cannot choose the apple balance of $100 displayed as a payment method for in app purchases on my apple iphone with australian currency specifically converted to apple currency to make apple app store related purchases

Mar 8, 2026 12:24 PM in response to NotHappyJan159

There’s no win or lose. It’s not a contest. I don’t use AI in my posts. It’s just my intelligence and I doubt it’s artificial at 69. I can see how it comes as a shock to you that someone actually talks and writes using articulated sentences and constructs entire paragraphs.


You post a reply to me, it deserves a response. That’s all. I hope you enjoy your the rest of your weekend.

How do I use Apple Credit for in-app purchases and subscriptions?

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