If a message says 'billing problem with previous purchase' or 'verification required'

If these messages appear, you might be unable to make purchases, download free apps, or use subscriptions. To fix the issue, change your payment method. If you can't change your payment method, you can redeem a gift card and use the balance to pay for any unpaid orders.

Change your payment method

You have an unpaid balance because Apple was unable to charge your payment method for a previous purchase. Add a new, valid payment method, then remove the old payment method. The new payment method will be charged automatically. When the outstanding balance has been paid, you can make new purchases or use subscriptions again.

Change your payment method

Use an Apple Gift Card or App Store & iTunes gift card to pay an unpaid balance

  1. Purchase an Apple Gift Card or App Store & iTunes gift card.*

  2. Redeem the gift card.

  3. On your iPhone or iPad, open the Settings app, then tap your name.

  4. Tap Media & Purchases.

  5. Tap View Account.

  6. Tap Purchase History.

  7. Tap the order with red text that says Amount You Owe.

  8. Tap Pay with Apple ID Credit.

After you pay for the unpaid order, you can make purchases with your remaining Apple Account balance.

* Gift cards aren't available in all countries or regions.

If you use Family Sharing

If you use Family Sharing and purchase sharing is turned on, the family organiser's payment method is charged for all family members' purchases. If you're the family organiser and you or a family member can't make purchases, change your payment method.

If you're not the family organiser, ask the family organiser to change their payment method. Or redeem a gift card and pay your unpaid order.

If you still need help

If you are still unable to resolve your unpaid balance, contact Apple Support.

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