Turn a list of subscriptions into a useful spending review

Start with actual charges, compare annual costs and check whether changes really took effect.

Small recurring charges can be difficult to compare when they use different billing intervals. Begin with your own statements, app-store subscriptions and renewal notices. Record the service, amount, interval and next renewal date. Use account nicknames rather than copying full card or account numbers into a worksheet.

Put costs on the same basis

For a monthly subscription, multiplying by 12 estimates one year of charges. A $15 monthly service is approximately $180 per year before changes or additional charges. A $5 weekly subscription is approximately $260 per year using 52 weeks. These are comparison estimates; taxes, introductory offers and actual contract terms can change what you pay.

Compare cost with use

Ask when you last used each service and whether it still fits your priorities. You may decide to keep it, switch plans or cancel. A list is a way to organize your decisions, not a direction to cancel every recurring expense.

Keep confirmation

When you request a change, follow the provider's cancellation or plan-change process. Record the request date, confirmation and effective date. Deleting an app does not necessarily cancel the subscription. Check the next statement to see whether the change took effect and whether another charge needs attention.

Do not count a possible saving as money already available. A cancellation that begins next month may not reduce this month's bill, and refund eligibility depends on the actual terms. Our optional Subscription & Renewal Organizer keeps the list, comparison and follow-through record in one printable pack.

Further reading: FTC: free trials and subscription renewals.