Rossen Reports: How to avoid getting charged after free trials
Free trial offers may seem enticing, but they can quickly turn into unexpected charges if you're not careful.
One simple way to avoid this is by using a virtual credit card when signing up. These temporary card numbers, often provided for free by banks and apps, link to your real credit card but can be locked, deleted, or set to expire after one purchase. This ensures companies cannot charge you if you forget to cancel.
Another effective strategy is to set a reminder on your phone or calendar to cancel the trial a few days before it ends.
Subscription tracking apps are also a great resource. Free apps like Rocket Money, Experian, and Trim can scan your accounts for active subscriptions and help you cancel them. Rocket Money works by linking to your bank account, while Experian and Trim offer similar services on mobile and desktop platforms.