Why do I need to add a payment method jus… (2024)

FAQs

Why is the App Store forcing me to add a payment method? ›

On the App Store, even if you're trying to download a free app, Apple requires you to have a payment method on file for your Apple ID. This is mainly for verification purposes and to ensure that you're a legitimate user.

PayPal requires a backup funding source, such as a bank account or a debit/credit card, to make purchases via Braintree (our payment processor).

By providing customers with a variety of payment options, businesses can maximize their conversion rates, reduce cart abandonment, increase brand perception, and gain a competitive edge.

Possible reasons for this include having an outstanding balance with the App Store, issues with the current payment method as well as any potential ongoing subscriptions. While you can try to set up an account without a payment method, you will likely have few options outside of entering a valid payment method.

Select Create Apple ID. Add your account details. As you proceed through the instructions, you will encounter a Payment Information screen. In the Payment Type section, there will be an option – None.

This message may appear if there's a failure in the payment system, outstanding balances if the device has never downloaded apps or made purchases before, or if the payment method needs updating.

You can use your account for a while without adding a card but at some point OR if there has been a problem with a transaction OR your transaction is more high risk then Paypal will ask you to add a card to act as a back up funding source and verify your paypal account.

For your account security, we always check to make sure the information provided during checkout matches your account details. If the information can't be verified, the purchase will be declined. Please make sure the information entered on the seller's website matches your PayPal account details.

Adding a credit or debit card not only saves the hassle of looking for payment details each time you shop, it also better guards your data as you no longer have to type in your financial information on the different websites you check out on.

The most popular ways to pay

Likely unsurprising to most, credit and debit cards are the most frequent payment methods.

What is the purpose of payment method? ›

The various ways in which Individuals and businesses complete the financial transactions that allow them to purchase goods and services, settle debts, or transfer funds are called payment methods. These methods include traditional and digital options.

Offering easy online payments reduces or removes manual tasks like data entry, managing customer disputes, and paper invoices. In fact, some online payment methods automatically generate online invoices, which saves time and money.

When attempting to make your purchase, especially online or via mobile app, it's easy to incorrectly enter a digit of your credit card number, expiration date or security code. If that's not the issue, maybe your billing address is outdated. These could all be simple explanations for a declined transaction.

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

If you are being asked to pay again, rather than downloading the app from the App Store product page, locate it in your purchase history. You can see your purchase history from inside the App Store. Tap your avatar in the top right corner to see your App Store Account details.

To buy apps from the App Store, use Apple subscriptions such as iCloud+ and Apple Music, or buy other media from Apple, you need an Apple ID and a valid payment method.