Manage Tunecore

How to cancel tunecore in new zealand and protect your music rights

What is tunecore and how does it work

Tunecore is a digital music distribution platform that helps independent artists upload and release music to streaming services and digital stores worldwide. You maintain full ownership of your recordings while Tunecore handles the technical distribution, royalty collection, and publishing administration on your behalf.

Many New Zealand musicians rely on Tunecore to reach audiences on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, and dozens of other platforms without surrendering creative control. The service operates on a subscription model, charging annual fees for unlimited uploads, or per-release fees if you prefer to pay as you go.

How musicians typically use tunecore

You use Tunecore to release singles, EPs, and full albums to global streaming platforms. The platform also manages publishing administration, helping you collect royalties from songwriting and composition rights, not just streaming payments.

Tunecore offers both web-based subscriptions and app-store billing through Apple and Google, giving you flexibility in how you manage your account and billing.

Why you might decide to cancel

You may cancel Tunecore if you switch to a different distributor, step back from music releases, or want to remove your music from all streaming stores. Some artists cancel after a single release or switch distributors because they've found better royalty rates, faster payouts, or more advanced analytics elsewhere.

Your consumer rights under new zealand law

The Consumer Guarantees Act 1993 (NZ) protects you when you purchase services like music distribution. Understanding these rights helps you make informed decisions about cancellation and refunds.

What the consumer guarantees act guarantees you

Under this law, Tunecore must provide its services with reasonable care and skill. If the service fails to deliver what was promised-for example, your music fails to distribute to major platforms, or your account malfunctions-you have grounds to pursue a refund or remedy.

The law also protects you against misleading or deceptive conduct. If Tunecore's terms hide cancellation policies or make it unreasonably difficult for you to exit your subscription, you can escalate your complaint to the Commerce Commission (the New Zealand consumer watchdog) or seek legal advice.

Cooling-off periods and your cancellation rights

For distance contracts (purchases made online), you have a 14-day cooling-off period if you change your mind. However, Tunecore's terms may exclude digital services from this right. Check Tunecore's specific terms before subscribing, or contact Stopee to review whether your cancellation qualifies for a statutory cooling-off refund.

Tunecore pricing and subscription plans

Tunecore charges fees based on how you release music. Understanding these costs helps you decide whether cancellation saves you money or whether you should continue.

Prices are approximate and may vary by region and currency. Check your Tunecore account dashboard for exact NZD pricing before you commit to renewal.

How to cancel tunecore via the web dashboard

Cancelling through Tunecore's web interface is the fastest and most direct method. Follow these steps carefully to avoid accidental renewal charges.

1. Log in to your Tunecore account at tunecore.com using your email and password.
   • If you've forgotten your password, click "Forgot password" and follow the email link to reset it.
2. Navigate to "Account Settings" or "Manage Subscriptions" in your dashboard menu.
   • The exact menu label varies; look for settings icons or account management sections.
3. Locate your active subscription (for example, "Unlimited plan" or annual subscription).
   • If you have multiple subscriptions or per-release renewals, you'll see them listed separately.
4. Click "Cancel Subscription" or "Cancel Renewal" next to your active plan.
   • Pro tip: Don't click "Pause" or "Suspend"-these don't cancel; they only delay renewal.
5. Review the cancellation summary, which shows your cancellation date and any remaining access period.
   • Typically, you'll retain access until the end of your paid billing period, then the subscription stops.
6. Confirm your cancellation by clicking "Yes, cancel my subscription" or similar confirmation button.
   • Save or screenshot the confirmation page or email for your records.

Warning: If you cancel after your renewal date has already processed, Tunecore typically applies the cancellation from the next billing cycle with no automatic refund of the amount already charged. Act quickly if you want to avoid a charge.

Removing your music from streaming platforms

Cancelling your subscription doesn't automatically remove your music from Spotify, Apple Music, and other platforms. You must request a takedown separately if you want your releases withdrawn.

1. Log in to your Tunecore account.
2. Go to the release you want to remove, or select "Takedown All Stores" if you want everything removed immediately.
   • This option pulls your entire catalogue from all streaming services.
3. Confirm the takedown request.
   • Takedowns can take 2-6 weeks to propagate across all platforms because stores process removal requests on their own schedules.
4. Keep your Tunecore account active until the takedown is complete, or the removal request may not process fully.
   • Pro tip: Don't cancel your subscription immediately if you're requesting a takedown; wait until it's confirmed.

How to cancel tunecore if web cancellation fails

If the web dashboard doesn't load, you can't find your subscription settings, or the cancel button doesn't work, contact Tunecore's support team directly.

1. Visit Tunecore's support centre at support.tunecore.com.
2. Search for "cancel subscription" or "manage subscription" to find the contact form or email address.
   • Tunecore typically offers email support; live chat availability varies by region.
3. Submit a cancellation request with your account email, full name, and the date you want to cancel.
   • Be clear: "Please cancel my subscription effective immediately" or "Please cancel my subscription before my next renewal on [date]."
4. Include a screenshot of your billing dashboard if possible, showing your subscription status and next renewal date.
5. Send this before your renewal date to avoid an unwanted charge.
   • Warning: Support response times can take 3-7 business days. If your renewal is within that window, your cancellation may not process in time.
6. Once Tunecore responds, ask them to confirm your cancellation in writing and provide the effective date.
   • Save this email in a safe folder labelled "Tunecore cancellation" for future reference.

How to cancel tunecore via mobile app billing

If you subscribed through Apple's App Store or Google Play, you don't cancel through Tunecore. You cancel directly with Apple or Google, and they handle your refund eligibility.

Cancel tunecore on iOS (Apple app store)

1. Open the Apple App Store app on your iPhone or iPad.
2. Tap your profile picture in the top-right corner.
3. Select "Subscriptions."
4. Find "Tunecore" in your active subscriptions list.
5. Tap "Tunecore" and select "Cancel Subscription."
   • Apple will ask you to confirm; tap "Confirm Cancellation."
6. Your subscription will end on the next renewal date; you'll receive an email confirmation from Apple.
   • Pro tip: Apple typically allows 14-day refunds for unwanted charges if you cancel within 14 days of the charge appearing.

Cancel tunecore on android (Google play)

1. Open the Google Play Store app on your Android phone or tablet.
2. Tap your profile icon in the top-right corner.
3. Select "Manage subscriptions."
4. Tap "Tunecore."
5. Select "Cancel subscription."
   • Google will confirm the date your access ends.
6. Your subscription stops at the end of your paid period; Google sends a confirmation email.
   • Google Play offers limited refunds within 48 hours of a charge for first-time issues.

Important: Apple and Google handle refunds independently of Tunecore. Even if Tunecore's terms say "no refunds," you may still qualify for a refund from the app store if you cancel within their refund window.

What happens to your account and music after cancellation

Cancelling is a significant step. Understanding what changes helps you prepare and avoid surprises.

Your account access and features

After you cancel, your Tunecore account remains accessible until the end of your paid billing period. You can still view your earnings, download reports, and access analytics during this time. Once the period ends, most features tied to an active subscription-such as unlimited uploads-freeze. You can still download historical data, but you cannot upload new releases unless you resubscribe.

Your music on streaming platforms

Your music remains live on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, and other platforms unless you request a takedown. Even after your subscription expires, your releases stay available, and you continue to earn streaming royalties (which Tunecore collects and pays to you). However, your publishing administration access may pause, so you won't receive new publishing royalty reports unless you reactivate a subscription that includes this feature.

Royalties and future payments

You receive all streaming royalties earned from music already distributed, regardless of whether your subscription is active. Tunecore continues to pay you your share of streams even after cancellation. If you resubscribe later, you can manage the same releases again and re-enable publishing administration.

Will you get a refund when you cancel

Refunds are a common concern, and Tunecore's policies can feel restrictive. Here's exactly where you stand.

Tunecore's standard refund policy

Tunecore states that once a payment is processed, it is final. If you cancel after your renewal date has passed, you are not automatically refunded the subscription fee. Tunecore argues this is because you've already received access to the service during that billing period.

This stance is common among SaaS companies, but it doesn't automatically override your consumer rights under New Zealand law.

When you can claim a refund

• Within the 14-day cooling-off period: If you subscribed online and cancel within 14 days without using the service significantly, you may qualify for a refund under the Consumer Guarantees Act or the Distance Transactions regulations. Contact Stopee or the Commerce Commission if Tunecore refuses.
• Service failure or breach: If Tunecore fails to distribute your music to major platforms, delivers the service with defects, or breaches its obligations, you can demand a refund or remedy.
• Misleading terms: If Tunecore's cancellation or refund policies were not clear at the point of sale, or if the company misrepresented the service, you have grounds for a complaint.
• Duplicate or erroneous charges: If you were charged twice or the wrong amount was debited, request an immediate refund and escalate if Tunecore refuses.
• Apple or Google app-store refunds: If you subscribed via iOS or Android, Apple and Google may refund you even if Tunecore won't, provided you ask within their refund window (14 days for Apple, 48 hours for Google for first-time issues).

How to request a refund from tunecore

1. Email Tunecore support with the subject line: "Refund request for [your account email] - [reason]."
2. State your reason clearly: "I cancel within 14 days of purchase," "The service failed to distribute to X platform," or "I was charged in error."
3. Include your account email, the date of the charge, and the amount.
4. Ask Tunecore for a written response explaining whether they will refund you and why.
5. If Tunecore refuses, escalate your complaint to the Commerce Commission or contact Stopee for guidance on your next step.

Pro tip: If you subscribed via Apple or Google and Tunecore refuses a refund, request one directly from the app store. Their refund policies are often more flexible than Tunecore's.

Common mistakes people make when cancelling tunecore

Cancellation can be frustrating, especially if you're unsure of the steps. Here are the pitfalls that catch most users off guard-and how to avoid them.

Waiting until after renewal to cancel

This is the costliest mistake. If your renewal date is 15 March and you cancel on 16 March, the charge has already processed. Tunecore will apply your cancellation from 15 April (the next renewal), meaning you've paid for another year you don't want. Set a reminder on your phone or calendar for at least one week before your renewal date.

Confusing "pause" with "cancel"

Tunecore's interface offers both options. Pausing suspends your uploads temporarily but keeps your subscription active and continues billing. Cancellation stops the subscription entirely. Always click "Cancel," not "Pause," unless you plan to return.

Cancelling your subscription without removing your music

Your music stays on streaming platforms indefinitely after cancellation unless you explicitly request a takedown. Some users cancel only to realise their old releases are still earning revenue they can no longer access because Tunecore's publishing admin is inactive. If you don't want your music out there, request "Takedown All Stores" before your access period ends.

Not saving your cancellation confirmation

Tunecore's email confirmations sometimes go to spam, and support can take weeks to respond to disputes. Screenshot your cancellation page immediately after confirming, and save the confirmation email to a folder labelled "Tunecore" on your computer or cloud storage.

Forgetting to cancel app-store subscriptions separately

If you have both a web subscription and an iOS or Android app subscription, you must cancel both separately. Cancelling one does not cancel the other. Check all your payment methods and subscriptions on Apple, Google, and Tunecore's website.

Checklist before you cancel tunecore

Use this checklist to ensure you're prepared and won't regret your decision after you've cancelled.

Tunecore alternatives: should you switch

If you're cancelling because Tunecore doesn't meet your needs, these alternatives are worth considering.

Before you switch, compare payout schedules, royalty percentages, customer support responsiveness, and features. Some distributors offer free trials or pay-per-release options so you can test them before committing.

How to escalate a complaint if tunecore refuses to cancel or refund

If Tunecore ignores your cancellation request or refuses a refund you believe you're entitled to, you have legal recourse in New Zealand.

Step one: document everything

Save all emails, screenshots of account settings, and copies of charges. Note the dates you contacted Tunecore, what you asked, and how they responded (or failed to respond).

Step two: send a formal written complaint to tunecore

Email Tunecore's support address with the subject "Formal complaint: cancellation and refund dispute." State your case clearly, reference the Consumer Guarantees Act 1993, and give Tunecore 10 business days to respond. Keep this email professional and factual.

Step three: contact the commerce commission

If Tunecore doesn't respond or refuses unreasonably, lodge a complaint with the Commerce Commission (comcom.govt.nz). Describe the issue, attach your evidence, and explain why you believe Tunecore breached consumer law. The Commission can investigate and take action.

Step four: consider disputing the charge with your bank

If Tunecore charged you after you requested cancellation, or if a renewal processed without clear consent, contact your bank or credit card company and request a chargeback or reversal. Provide your bank with the evidence of your cancellation request and Tunecore's failure to honour it.

Pro tip: Stopee has helped thousands of consumers navigate disputes like these. If you're stuck, Stopee can review your situation and advise on your next steps at no cost.

Contact information for tunecore support and escalation

Here's how to reach Tunecore directly and escalate if needed.

Tunecore's primary contact channels

• Support website: support.tunecore.com (search "cancel subscription" to find the contact form)
• Email: Check the support centre for the current support email; it varies by region
• Postal address (US headquarters; no New Zealand office listed): 35 W 36th Street, Suite 6A, New York, NY 10018, USA

New zealand consumer authorities

• Commerce Commission (consumer complaints and investigations): comcom.govt.nz or 0800 943 600
• Disputes tribunal (for claims under NZD 20,000): disputes.govt.nz or call your local tribunal
• Stopee (independent consumer advocacy): stopee.com - Stopee reviews cancellation issues, helps draft complaints, and escalates to authorities on your behalf

Summary: reclaim control of your music and finances

Cancelling Tunecore is straightforward if you follow the steps in this guide. Cancel via the web dashboard before your renewal date, request a music takedown if you want your releases removed from streaming platforms, and save all confirmations. If web cancellation fails, contact support immediately. If you subscribed via Apple or Google, cancel through those app stores instead.

Remember: you have legal rights under the Consumer Guarantees Act 1993. If Tunecore misrepresents its service, fails to deliver, charges you in error, or refuses a legitimate refund request, you can escalate to the Commerce Commission.

Stopee has helped thousands of consumers cancel unwanted subscriptions, challenge unfair refund policies, and recover money they're entitled to. If Tunecore refuses to co-operate or you need advice on your rights, visit stopee.com or contact Stopee directly. Stopee specialises in making cancellation simple, fair, and fast.

Take action today. Cancel your Tunecore subscription now, protect your rights, and redirect your budget to a distributor that better serves your music and your goals.