You canceled your subscription.
It was right before the renewal date.
You thought you made it in time.
You assumed the charge would stop.
Then the payment went through.
Canceling close to renewal does not always stop the billing.
Why This Happens
- Renewal processing often starts hours or days earlier
- Billing systems queue charges before the official date
- Cancellation after processing begins may not apply
- Some services require 24–48 hour notice
How Renewal Timing Actually Works
- The renewal date is the charge completion date
- Processing may start before that date
- Payment authorization can lock the charge early
- Cancellation after authorization may be too late
How to Avoid This Situation
- Cancel at least 48 hours before renewal
- Check the exact billing timezone
- Confirm cancellation status immediately
- Screenshot the cancellation confirmation
Last-minute cancellations feel safe.
But billing systems often move faster than expected.