You were paying a discounted price.
A promotion, trial rate, or special offer was applied.
The renewal date arrived.
And suddenly, the charge was higher.
Nothing felt different.
You didn’t change your plan.
You didn’t upgrade.
But the price went up.
This usually happens when a promotional or discounted rate ends at renewal.
Promotional pricing is often time-limited, even if the subscription itself continues.
Why This Happens
- The discount was valid only for the first billing cycle
- A trial or introductory rate expired automatically
- The promotion applied only to the initial signup period
- The renewal switched the plan back to the standard price
In many services, the discount does not renew.
The subscription renews—but the price does not.
How to Confirm What Changed
- Check the original signup or promotion terms
- Compare the previous invoice with the latest one
- Look for wording like “introductory,” “trial,” or “limited-time”
- Review the billing period attached to the higher charge
If the billing period is correct but the price is higher, the promotion likely ended as scheduled.
Common Misunderstandings
- Assuming a discount renews automatically
- Thinking the lower price was permanent
- Believing no notice means no price change
- Confusing plan renewal with price renewal
Most services consider the end of a promotion a normal renewal, not a price increase.
What You Should Do Next
- Decide whether the standard price is still acceptable
- Check if a new promotion or downgrade option exists
- Cancel before the next renewal if needed
- Contact support only if the charge contradicts the stated terms
When a promotional rate ends at renewal, the higher charge is usually expected—even if it feels sudden.