How to permanently disable auto-renewal so you never get surprised by an unexpected renewal charge again. This guide applies specifically to ChatGPT Plus (OpenAI) ($20/mo) subscribers in District of Columbia, citing applicable state and federal law.
District of Columbia's CPPA + Auto-Renewal Protections (D.C. Code § 28-3901) gives you specific protections when dealing with ChatGPT Plus (OpenAI) subscriptions:
Penalties: CPPA violation — treble damages and attorney fees
Applied to ChatGPT Plus (OpenAI) (ChatGPT settings) in District of Columbia
Log into your account settings
Go to the service's website (not app, unless it's an app-store subscription). Navigate to Settings → Billing → Subscription or Plan.
District of Columbia note: D.C. Code § 28-3901 requires ChatGPT Plus (OpenAI) to provide an easy cancellation mechanism.
Look for 'Auto-Renewal' or 'Recurring Billing' toggle
Most services have an explicit auto-renewal toggle. Turn it off. You will typically keep access until your current paid period ends, then it won't renew.
Get written confirmation
After toggling, screenshot the settings page and save any confirmation email. If they charge you after disabling auto-renewal, you have documented proof.
For app-store subscriptions, disable in the store
iPhone: Settings → [Your Name] → Subscriptions → [App] → Turn off Renew. Google Play: Manage subscriptions → Cancel. The app itself cannot see these settings.
Set a final billing date reminder
Note when your current period ends. After that date, verify no charge appears. If you see a charge after disabling auto-renewal, that is an unauthorized charge.
Method: ChatGPT settings · Difficulty: easy
ChatGPT Plus (OpenAI)-specific tips
No refund. Access until period ends.
Under D.C. Code § 28-3901, you may be entitled to a full refund if ChatGPT Plus (OpenAI) didn't properly disclose auto-renewal terms at signup.
These apply to ChatGPT Plus (OpenAI) in every state, including District of Columbia:
SubScrub auto-cites D.C. Code § 28-3901 + sends legally-backed letters