Manage Times

How to cancel the times subscription and get your money back

Understanding the times and why you might cancel

The Times stands as one of Britain's most respected news organisations, delivering quality journalism since 1785. Today, the publication operates as a multi-platform subscription service, combining print editions with digital access through its website and mobile applications. You receive unlimited articles, exclusive features, podcasts, and multimedia content depending on your chosen package.

The Times offers several subscription tiers: digital-only access, print-only delivery, and combined packages that bundle both. Many subscribers hold multiple plans without realising it, especially if you've upgraded or switched between packages over time. Before cancelling, it's worth checking exactly which subscriptions you're paying for each month.

If you're reading this, you've likely decided that The Times no longer fits your needs or budget. Whether you've found alternative news sources, reduced your media consumption, or simply want to trim monthly costs, cancelling should be straightforward. Stopee understands that subscription management can feel overwhelming, which is why we've created this complete guide to help you regain control of your finances.

Common reasons subscribers cancel

You might cancel because you don't have enough time to read the newspaper, prefer free news sources, or want to test other publications first. Cost is another major factor: at £26 to £80 monthly depending on your package, The Times represents a significant ongoing expense for many households. Some subscribers simply forget they're being charged and cancel once they review their bank statements.

What happens to your access when you cancel

Once your cancellation takes effect, you lose access to the digital platform, mobile app, and home delivery (if applicable). You cannot download or archive articles after your subscription ends. Any remaining balance on your account typically expires immediately, so timing your cancellation carefully matters.

Your subscription options and what you're paying

The Times offers distinct subscription packages, each with different pricing and features. Understanding which package you hold ensures you cancel the correct subscription and avoid accidentally retaining an unwanted payment plan.

Digital subscription tier

The digital subscription grants unlimited access to The Times website (thetimes.co.uk) and the mobile app across multiple devices. You receive all online articles, newsletters, podcasts, and digital-exclusive content. This package typically costs £26 per month after any introductory offer expires, though promotional rates may be lower initially.

Print and combined packages

Print-only subscriptions deliver physical newspapers to your home on chosen days, ranging from weekday delivery to full seven-day coverage. Combined print and digital packages provide the premium experience: home delivery plus full online access. These packages cost between £30 and £80 monthly depending on delivery frequency and your location.

Pricing comparison table

How to cancel your times subscription

Cancelling The Times requires you to navigate your account settings or contact the subscription team directly. The method you use depends on how you originally purchased your subscription and which platform you're using. Stopee recommends checking your confirmation email first, as it often contains cancellation instructions and your account details.

Cancelling through your online account

Most subscribers can cancel directly through The Times website or mobile app. This is the fastest method and provides immediate confirmation of your cancellation request.

1. Visit thetimes.co.uk and log into your account using your email and password
   • If you've forgotten your password, click "Forgot password?" and follow the reset instructions
   • Check you're logged into the correct email address if you hold multiple subscriptions
2. Navigate to "Account settings" or "Subscription management" from your profile menu
   • This is typically found by clicking your name or profile icon in the top right corner
   • Look for options labelled "My subscription", "Manage subscription", or "Billing"
3. Select your active subscription and click "Cancel subscription" or "Manage plan"
   • Review the details to ensure you're cancelling the correct package
   • Note the cancellation date and any final billing information displayed
4. Follow the prompts to confirm your cancellation
   • The Times may offer retention discounts or alternative packages; decline these if you want to cancel completely
   • Confirm your cancellation by clicking the final "Cancel" button
5. Check your email for a cancellation confirmation message within 24 hours
   • Pro tip: Screenshot or save this confirmation email for your records
   • If you don't receive confirmation within one business day, contact customer support

Cancelling via the mobile app

If you primarily use The Times mobile app, you can cancel directly through the app on iPhone or Android devices.

1. Open The Times app and tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines) in the bottom right corner
2. Select "Account" or "Settings" from the menu options
3. Tap "Manage subscription" or "Subscription settings"
4. Select your active subscription and choose "Cancel subscription"
5. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the cancellation
6. Confirm your cancellation when prompted, then check your email for confirmation

Cancelling by phone or email

If you prefer human contact or encounter technical issues online, you can cancel by contacting The Times subscription team directly.

1. Find The Times customer service contact details on the official website or your most recent invoice
   • Call the subscriber services line during business hours (typically Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm)
   • Have your account details and subscription information ready before calling
2. Tell the representative you want to cancel your subscription
   • State your name, email address, and account number clearly
   • Confirm which package you're cancelling if you hold multiple subscriptions
3. Listen to any retention offers but remain firm in your decision to cancel
   • Warning: Representatives may try to persuade you to downgrade rather than cancel; be clear about your final decision
   • Request a confirmation number and the date your cancellation takes effect
4. Request written confirmation via email
   • Ask the representative to email a cancellation confirmation to your registered email address
   • Note their name and the time you called for your records

Cancelling if you subscribed through a third party

Some subscribers access The Times through platforms like Apple News Plus, Amazon Prime, or other bundle services. In these cases, you must cancel through the third-party platform, not directly with The Times.

1. Identify where you subscribed by checking your billing statement or bank records
   • Look for charges from Apple, Amazon, or other providers rather than News UK directly
2. Log into that platform's account settings or subscription management area
3. Find The Times in your active subscriptions and select "Cancel"
4. Follow the platform's cancellation process to completion
5. Verify the cancellation with both the third-party platform and check your email

Your consumer rights when cancelling

The Consumer Rights Act 2015 protects you when cancelling digital subscriptions in the United Kingdom. Understanding your rights empowers you to challenge unfair practices and recover money you're owed. Stopee believes every consumer deserves transparent, honest treatment from subscription providers.

The consumer rights act 2015 and digital services

Under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, you have the right to cancel a digital subscription within 14 days of purchase, provided you haven't substantially used the service. This "cooling-off period" applies even if The Times has already processed payment. After 14 days, you can still cancel your subscription at any time, but you forfeit the right to a refund unless the service is faulty or The Times breaches the contract.

The key provision: if you cancel within 14 days without substantially consuming the content, The Times must refund your money. However, if you've accessed significant articles, downloaded content, or used the service extensively, The Times can charge a reasonable fee for your usage.

What "substantially used" means

The Times interprets "substantial use" broadly. If you've logged in multiple times, read numerous articles, or accessed the service regularly, you've likely used it substantially. A single login or brief browsing typically doesn't constitute substantial use. If you purchased the subscription by mistake or changed your mind immediately, you have strong grounds for a refund within the 14-day window.

Right to cancel after 14 days

Beyond the 14-day cooling-off period, you can cancel anytime, but you're not automatically entitled to a refund. The Times can charge you for the subscription period you've already used. However, if the service is faulty, doesn't match the description provided, or The Times breaches the contract, you retain the right to cancel and claim a refund for the unusable portion.

Refunds and what to expect after cancellation

Whether you receive a refund depends on when you cancel, how much you've used The Times, and the specific circumstances. Stopee helps you understand the refund timeline and spot when a company owes you money but hasn't paid.

Refund eligibility and timeline

If you cancel within 14 days and haven't substantially used the service, The Times should process a refund within 14 days of receiving your cancellation request. Request written confirmation that you're entitled to a refund, and ensure The Times has your correct payment details to process the refund to your original payment method.

If you cancel after 14 days, you're generally not entitled to a refund for unused time. However, some situations justify a partial refund: if the service malfunctions, if you're charged twice, or if The Times makes billing errors. In these cases, contact customer support and request a refund with clear explanation of the issue.

What happens to your data and account

After cancellation takes effect, your account remains accessible for a limited period (typically 30 days), but you cannot access any paid content. You lose access to the digital archive, articles, and app functionality. Any saved articles or downloads expire once your subscription ends, so export or screenshot important content before your cancellation date.

Checking your refund status

After requesting a refund, monitor your bank account for the return of funds. Refunds typically appear within 5 to 10 business days, depending on your bank. If 14 days pass without a refund and you're eligible, contact The Times immediately and request escalation. Keep all cancellation confirmation emails and correspondence for proof.

Common cancellation mistakes to avoid

Cancelling a subscription should be simple, but many subscribers stumble when they rush the process or misunderstand The Times's policies. These errors cost time and money, so read carefully to sidestep them.

Confusing the times with the sunday times

The Times and The Sunday Times operate as separate subscriptions, even though News UK owns both. If you hold a bundled package, cancelling one doesn't automatically cancel the other. Check your account settings to confirm whether you're subscribed to both publications separately. Cancel each individually if needed.

Forgetting to cancel print delivery

If you held a print subscription and switched to digital-only, the physical delivery may still be active on a separate billing cycle. You must cancel print delivery explicitly; cancelling your digital subscription doesn't stop home deliveries. Review your invoice carefully to ensure all delivery lines are cancelled.

Missing the 14-day cooling-off window

Many subscribers don't realise they have 14 days to cancel for a full refund. If you've purchased a subscription you don't need, cancel immediately to stay within this window. After 14 days, your options become limited unless the service is faulty. Check the purchase date on your confirmation email and act quickly.

Not requesting written confirmation

Cancelling over the phone without requesting written confirmation leaves no paper trail if disputes arise later. Always ask for an email confirmation including your name, account number, cancellation date, and refund status. This protects you if The Times claims it never received your cancellation request.

Ignoring outstanding charges after cancellation

Sometimes The Times charges your account after you've cancelled, often as a result of system delays or billing errors. Check your bank statement for 30 days following cancellation. If unexpected charges appear, contact The Times immediately with your cancellation confirmation email as evidence.

After your cancellation is complete

Cancelling The Times is just the first step toward reclaiming control of your subscriptions. Taking action now prevents similar issues with other services and helps you build better spending habits.

Checking for other unwanted subscriptions

Now that you're cancelling The Times, review your bank statements for other subscriptions you've forgotten about. Many households carry multiple paid services they no longer actively use. List every monthly charge, research what each one is, and decide which ones provide genuine value. Stopee encourages subscribers to audit their finances annually to spot these hidden costs.

Setting calendar reminders for future subscriptions

When you subscribe to new services, mark the cancellation date in your calendar as soon as payment is processed. This ensures you never accidentally keep a subscription you intended to try temporarily. Set reminders for 14 days after purchase to consider whether you want to cancel within the cooling-off window.

Requesting your data from the times

Under the UK General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), you have the right to request a copy of all data The Times holds about you. Submit a "Subject Access Request" to their data protection team. This reveals how much information they've collected, what they plan to do with it, and helps you understand their data practices before resubscribing (if you choose to do so later).

Providing feedback to the times

If you're cancelling due to poor user experience, high cost, or missing features, share your feedback with The Times. Contact their customer service team and explain why you're leaving. Consumer feedback directly influences product decisions; publishers take cancellation reasons seriously because they reveal gaps in their service.

Cancellation checklist

Use this checklist to ensure you've completed every step and protected yourself from future billing issues.

Why subscribers choose to cancel

Understanding why others cancel The Times helps clarify whether your decision aligns with your actual needs. Stopee has gathered real feedback from subscribers, and these reasons appear most frequently.

Cost considerations

At £26 to £80 monthly, The Times represents a substantial expense. For many households, this cost multiplied across multiple subscriptions (streaming services, magazines, news apps) becomes unaffordable. You might keep The Times during winter months and cancel in summer to reduce spending, or upgrade to digital-only to save money compared to print and digital bundles.

Time constraints and reading habits

Subscribers often cancel after realising they don't have time to read regularly. If you're checking headlines once weekly or less, the subscription doesn't match your actual behaviour. Others cancel because they prefer shorter news bursts from social media or free aggregator apps rather than long-form articles The Times publishes.

Editorial or political disagreements

Some subscribers cancel because they disagree with The Times's editorial stance on certain topics. This is a personal choice; you're under no obligation to support a publication whose values don't align with yours. Switching to a different newspaper or combining multiple free sources is a valid alternative.

Technical frustration or website issues

Subscribers cancel when the website crashes frequently, the paywall malfunctions, or the mobile app performs poorly. If you've experienced repeated technical problems and The Times customer support hasn't resolved them after multiple attempts, cancellation is justified.

Contacting the times subscription support

If you encounter issues during cancellation or have questions about your subscription, contact The Times directly. Here's where to send cancellation requests or complaints if self-service cancellation doesn't work.

Online account and self-service cancellation

Visit thetimes.co.uk, log into your account, and navigate to subscription settings. This is the fastest method and provides immediate confirmation.

Phone support

Call The Times subscriber services team during business hours (Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm GMT). Have your account details ready. The phone line is the best option if you've tried online cancellation without success or need to discuss refund eligibility.

Email and postal contact

Email subscriptions queries to The Times customer support email listed on your invoice or the official website. For formal complaints or escalations, send written correspondence to:

News UK Subscriptions 3 Thomas More Square London E98 1XY United Kingdom

Include your full name, account number, subscription details, and clear explanation of your issue. Send via Royal Mail Signed For or email with read receipt enabled.

Using stopee to track your cancellation

Stopee has helped thousands of consumers successfully cancel subscriptions and recover refunds they didn't know they were owed. If you experience delays with The Times refund, need help interpreting your rights under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, or want advice on disputing unfair charges, Stopee provides step-by-step guidance and escalation support. Our mission is ensuring you stay in control of your money and your subscriptions.

Summary and next steps

Cancelling The Times takes between 5 and 10 minutes if you use online account settings or the mobile app. Phone cancellation requires slightly longer but provides reassurance through direct human contact. You have strong consumer protections under UK law, particularly the 14-day cooling-off period and the right to cancel anytime if the service is faulty.

Take action today: log into your account, navigate to subscription settings, and submit your cancellation request. Verify that written confirmation arrives within 24 hours, then monitor your bank account for any refund within 14 days. If The Times continues charging after cancellation or refuses a refund you're entitled to, escalate your complaint to The Times management team or contact Stopee for consumer advocacy support.

You've earned the right to spend your money on services that genuinely add value to your life. Whether you're cancelling to save money, reduce screen time, or switch to a different publication, your decision deserves respect and smooth execution. Stopee stands with you every step of the way, ensuring companies honour their cancellation obligations and your consumer rights remain protected.