AbleProFAIR OR NOT
☰ Menu
Pay · what you’re chargedOwn · what happens after you buyAgree · what you sign or clickTrust · who is really on your sideHelp · getting a problem fixedData · what happens to your informationBrowse by area of lifeReport a problemRead reportsCommon pricing problemsNickel-and-dime tacticsFind your subscriptionsFree toolsGuidesComplain in your stateSearch
Report a problem
Home › Pay › Common problems › Dating apps
Apps

Dating apps

Many dating apps are free to join, but the costs can add up through premium tiers, paid 'boosts,' and plans that renew automatically. Some prices change based on your age or location, and some features are locked to push upgrades. There isn't a fully free substitute for every app, so this page focuses on what free versions offer, how to avoid surprise charges, and how to cancel.

Common problems to watch for

  • Messages or likes you can't see unless you upgrade
  • One-time 'boosts' or credits sold on top of a subscription
  • Multi-month plans billed all at once and renewed automatically
  • Prices that differ from what a friend paid for the same plan
  • Fake or scam profiles that push you to pay or move off the app

Had one of these happen? Telling others what you were charged helps them avoid it.

Report it

Free and low-cost alternatives

The free version of the appMany dating apps let you create a profile, browse and message for free. Try the free tier for a while before deciding whether paid features are worth it.
Local groups and eventsLibraries, community centers, volunteer groups and faith communities often host free events where you can meet people in person.
Do you need the upgrade?There's no exact free replacement for paid dating features. If you upgrade, pick the shortest plan and turn off auto-renew right away.

Availability depends on your device and model. AblePro has no relationship with any company named here.

What fair pricing looks like

Free versions usually cover the basics, and paid tiers add extras. Shorter plans cost more per month but limit your risk; avoid buying credits or boosts on top of a subscription unless you clearly want them.

Before you pay

  • Use the free version for a few weeks first
  • Check the total charge, not just the monthly equivalent
  • Find out whether the plan auto-renews and for how long
  • Never send money or gift cards to someone you met online
  • Read how to cancel before you subscribe

How to cancel

  1. On iPhone, open Settings, tap your name, then Subscriptions, and cancel there. Deleting the app does not cancel it.
  2. On Android, open Google Play, tap your profile picture, then Payments & subscriptions, then Subscriptions, and cancel.
  3. If you paid on the company's website, cancel in your account settings there. Deleting your profile may not cancel billing.
  4. Cancel first, then delete your profile, and keep the cancellation confirmation.

Step-by-step cancel guide for iPhone, Android and PayPal →

Common questions

Will deleting my dating profile stop the charges?

Not always. Deleting the app or even your profile may not cancel a subscription. If you paid through the App Store or Google Play, cancel in their subscription settings. If you paid on the company's website, cancel in your account there. Cancel first, then delete your profile, and save the confirmation.

Why does my plan cost more than someone else's?

Some dating apps change prices based on things like location, age, or the length of the plan you choose, and sales come and go. Before paying, compare the total price for each plan length on the purchase screen and choose the one that fits your budget, not just the lowest monthly figure.

Someone I met on a dating app is asking for money. What should I do?

Stop and don't send it. Requests for money, gift cards, cryptocurrency or help with an investment are common signs of a romance scam. Report the profile in the app and stop communicating. You can also report it to the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

General consumer information, not legal or financial advice. Reports reflect the experiences and opinions of their writers, not AblePro, Inc. We check reports against our posting rules but do not verify them.