How can I stop a direct debit for a forgotten free trial?

Shopify Discussion

Topic summary

Seeking to stop a direct debit and cancel a forgotten Shopify free-trial-turned-subscription.

  • Situation: A free trial started 1–2 months ago was not canceled; Shopify is attempting to debit $163 for a subscription.
  • Impact: The poster is in financial hardship, needs funds for rent and essentials, and has not been using Shopify. They fear the debit will process as soon as funds are available.
  • Request: Immediate help to halt the direct debit, cancel the Shopify account, and avoid paying the $163 fee.
  • Rationale/Sentiment: Views the charge as unfair given non-use; indicates they may never use Shopify again if forced to pay.
  • Status: No resolution or guidance provided yet. Key question remains how to block the debit and cancel without incurring the charge.
Summarized with AI on January 1. AI used: gpt-5.
1

I would really appreciate some help with this. I started a free trial on shopify 1-2 months ago, and forgot to cancel it. Shopify has been trying to take $163 out of my bank account to pay for a subscription but I cannot afford it. I am in a really hard position financially and barely can pay my rent at the moment. When I do have funds in my bank account, if shopify takes that $163 from me it will be really difficult for me. I need this money for other things. If shopify forces me to pay this $163 I will likely never use this company again. It is not a small amount of money and I have not been using shopify at all so I don’t think I should have to pay this.

Please, please can somebody help me in stopping this direct debit from coming out of my bank account. I want to cancel my shopify and not pay this fee. I truly need this money for much more important things right now!