How to Cancel iCloud Storage

Cloud storage is a convenient way to access all your data across several devices without having to juggle copies of it on different devices. Apple’s iCloud is a data storage subscription service for your Apple devices. If you get to a point where you no longer want to pay for an iCloud subscription, it may not be clear how to cancel and what happens to your data when you do. Read on to learn more about how to cancel iCloud storage.

How to Cancel Your iCloud Storage Plan

If you are not sure how to cancel iCloud storage, you can follow the instructions detailed below. It’s very similar to the steps to cancel Apple Music. The procedure is slightly different depending on which device you use.

1. How to Cancel Your iCloud Storage Plan from an iPhone

You can use your iPhone to cancel your iCloud storage plan by following the instructions listed below:

1. Open the Settings menu

2. Select the button with your name on it

3. Select the iCloud button

4. Tap Manage Storage or iCloud Storage

5. Select the Change Storage Plan button

6. Tap to open the Downgrade Options menu

7. Type in your Apple ID password.

8. Choose the Free Plan

9. Tap the Done button.

If you can’t click the Done button, you may be signed in with the wrong Apple ID. Make sure you are using the Apple ID that is linked to your iCloud storage plan. If it still doesn’t work you can try canceling your iCloud storage using a different device.

For most people, when you downgrade your plan, you will still have access to all of your features until the end of the billing period. However, partial refunds are available in some cases, where required by law.

If you recently downgraded your iCloud storage plan, you can contact Apple support within 14 days to request a refund.

2. How to Cancel Your iCloud Storage Plan from a Mac

You can cancel your iCloud storage plan using an Apple Mac by following the instructions listed below:

1. Open the Apple menu

2. In the System Settings menu, click Apple ID (If you’re using macOS Mojave or earlier, you don’t need to click Apple ID)

3. Choose iCloud

4. Choose Manage

5. Choose Change Storage Plan

6. Open the Downgrade Options menu

7. Type in your Apple ID password when asked

8. Choose Manage

9. Choose the Free Plan

10. Click the Done button.

If you can’t click the Done button, you may be signed in with the wrong Apple ID. Make sure you are using the Apple ID that is linked to your iCloud storage plan. If it still doesn’t work you can try canceling your iCloud storage using a different device.

For most people, when you downgrade your plan, you will still have access to all of your features until the end of the billing period. However, partial refunds are available in some cases, where required by law.

If you recently downgraded your iCloud storage plan, you can contact Apple support within 14 days to request a refund.

3. How to Cancel Your iCloud Storage Plan from an iPad

You can use your iPad to cancel your iCloud storage plan by following the instructions listed below:

1. Open the Settings menu
2. Select the button with your name on it
3. Select the iCloud button
4. Tap Manage Storage or iCloud Storage
5. Select the Change Storage Plan button
6. Tap to open the Downgrade Options menu
7. Type in your Apple ID password
8. Choose the Free Plan
9. Tap the Done button.

Make sure you are using the Apple ID that is linked to your iCloud storage plan. If you’re unable to click the Done button, you may be signed in with the wrong Apple ID. If it still doesn’t work you can try canceling your iCloud storage using a different device.

4. How to Cancel Your iCloud Storage Plan from a PC

You can also use a Windows PC to cancel your iCloud storage plan by following the instructions listed below:

1. Open the iCloud for Windows application
2. Click the Storage button
3. Select Change Storage Plan
4. Open the Downgrade Options menu
5. Enter the password for your Apple ID when asked
6. Select Manage
7. Choose the Free Plan
8. Click the Done button.

Make sure you are using the Apple ID that is linked to your iCloud storage plan. If you’re unable to click the Done button, you may be signed in with the wrong Apple ID. If it still doesn’t work you can try canceling your iCloud storage using a different device.

5. How to Cancel Your iCloud Storage Plan Without Apple

You don’t have to use an Apple device to cancel iCloud storage. You can also use a Windows PC to cancel or downgrade your subscription. Follow the instructions shown below to cancel your iCloud storage plan without Apple.

1. Open the iCloud for Windows application
2. Click the Storage button
3. Select Change Storage Plan
4. Open the Downgrade Options menu
5. Enter the password for your Apple ID when asked
6. Select Manage
7. Choose the Free Plan
8. Click the Done button.

If you can’t click the Done button, you may be signed in with the wrong Apple ID. Make sure you are using the Apple ID that is linked to your iCloud storage plan. If it still doesn’t work you can try canceling your iCloud storage using a different device.

Generally, when you downgrade your plan, you will still have access to all of your features until the end of the billing period. Partial refunds are also available in some cases, where required by law.

If you recently downgraded your iCloud storage plan, you can contact Apple support within 14 days to request a refund.

Generally, when you downgrade your plan, you will still have access to all of your features until the end of the billing period. Partial refunds are also available in some cases, where required by law.

If you recently downgraded your iCloud storage plan, you can contact Apple support within 14 days to request a refund.

What Happens if I Cancel My iCloud Storage Plan?

Whenever there is more data in your iCloud storage than what your plan allows for, your iCloud app will no longer sync or update information on your devices with the cloud.

The app will only continue to sync again after you upgrade the storage capacity or delete data to free up storage capacity.

In addition, if you downgrade to the Free Plan, you will no longer have access to certain features associated with iCloud+, such as Hide My Email and Private Relay.

To make sure you don’t lose any of the information in your iCloud storage you can also copy what’s in iCloud and store it somewhere else.

How to Downgrade Your iCloud Storage Plan

The procedure for downgrading your iCloud storage plan is the same as how to cancel iCloud storage. Follow the instructions given above for each type of device. The only difference is, when you reach the Downgrade Options menu, select a cheaper plan than you had, instead of the Free Plan.

How to Manage Your iCloud So You Don’t Have to Cancel

Managing iCloud storage effectively is crucial, as a full iCloud account can hinder the ability to back up your device or access files easily. While purchasing additional iCloud storage is an option, it’s not always necessary. Often, significant space can be freed by simply clearing out clutter.

6 Ways to Free Up iCloud Storage Space

1. Identify Storage-Consuming Files: Check what types of files are occupying the most space in your iCloud. This can be done through the Settings app on your device by navigating to iCloud and then to Manage Account Storage. You’ll see a bar graph indicating the space occupied by different file types like backups, photos, and messages.
2. Optimizing Photo Storage: Photos often take up considerable space in iCloud. Using the ‘Optimize iPhone Storage’ option in the iCloud Photos settings can replace full-resolution photos with smaller versions, thereby saving space. Regularly reviewing your photo collection to delete duplicates and unwanted images can also help.
3. Managing Messages and Attachments: Text messages, especially with numerous emojis and pictures, can accumulate more than a gigabyte of data in iCloud. Deleting old messages and attachments can free up space. This can be done directly from the Messages app on your iPhone.
4. Deleting Old iCloud Backups: Unused or old backups in iCloud can consume a lot of space. To delete these, go to the Settings app, tap on your Apple ID, select iCloud, and then go to Manage Account Storage. From there, you can access and delete old backups.
5. Cleaning iCloud Drive: Review the files stored in iCloud Drive and delete those that are unnecessary. This can be done from the Settings app on your iOS device or through the System Settings on a Mac. On a Mac, you can also manage what apps store data in iCloud and turn off iCloud usage for specific apps.
6. Managing Email Attachments: If you use an iCloud email address, your emails, including attachments, are backed up in your iCloud storage. Deleting unnecessary emails, especially those with large attachments, can free up significant space.

Utilizing Third-Party Apps for iCloud Management

Several third-party apps can assist in managing iCloud storage:

• Gemini: Scans and removes duplicate photos.
• CloudMounter: Integrates multiple cloud storage services, expanding your storage capacity.
• DropShare: Offers additional cloud storage options.
• AnyTrans: Provides flexibility with selective backups and data management.

Best Lenders for Personal Loans

Avant (Best for Quick Approval)

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Avant Personal Personal Loan

4.0

Stilt’s lender ratings reflect the findings and opinions of our editorial staff. Our scoring methodologies consider a wide array of factors and data points for every lender, offering, and financial solution.

Min. credit score

550

Fixed APR

9.95-35.99%

Variable APR

N/A

View details

Overview

• Minimum credit score: 550.
• Fixed APR: 9.95-35.99%.
• Loan amounts: $2,000-$35,000.
• Repayment: 1 to 5 years..

Qualifications

• Strong credit and income may secure lower rates, but not mandatory.
• Must possess a bank account in good standing under your name.
• A valid Social Security number is required.
• Bankruptcy should not be active.
• Minimum credit score of 550; using FICO score version 8 and VantageScore version 3.
• Minimum monthly net income: $1,200 from various sources including employment, alimony, retirement, child support, and Social Security payments.

Pros

• A dedicated mobile app is available for loan management.
• Offers a diverse selection of repayment terms.
• Customer service is accessible seven days a week.

Cons

• An origination fee might be applicable.
• They don’t offer co-signed, joint, or secured loan options.
• Direct payments to creditors aren’t available for debt consolidation loans.

AmOne (Best of Low Credit Score)

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AmOne Personal Loan

4.5

Stilt’s lender ratings reflect the findings and opinions of our editorial staff. Our scoring methodologies consider a wide array of factors and data points for every lender, offering, and financial solution.

Min. credit score

600

Fixed APR

3.99%-35.99%

Variable APR

N/A

View details

Overview

• Minimum credit score: 600.
• Fixed APR: 3.99%-35.99%.
• Loan amounts: $1,000 to $50,000.
• Repayment: 1 to 7 years.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
• While there’s no specific income requirement, a consistent source of income is essential for the applicant.

Pros

• Suitable for individuals with lower credit scores.
• No cost for the matching service.
• Attractive loan rates.

Cons

• Acts as an intermediary, not a direct lender.
• Risk of multiple contacts from prospective lenders.
• Lack of clarity on lender details.

Upstart (Best for Fair Credit Score)

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Upstart Personal Loan

4.5

Stilt’s lender ratings reflect the findings and opinions of our editorial staff. Our scoring methodologies consider a wide array of factors and data points for every lender, offering, and financial solution.

Min. credit score

None

Fixed APR

4.60-35.99%

Variable APR

N/A

View details

Overview

• Minimum credit score: None.
• Fixed APR: 4.60-35.99%.
• Loan amounts: $1,000-$50,000.
• Repayment: 3 or 5 years.

Qualifications

• Hold U.S. citizenship or possess permanent residency.
• Be a minimum of 18 years old in the majority of states.
• Provide a valid email address and Social Security number.
• Be currently employed full-time or starting a full-time job within the next six months.
• Maintain an active bank account with a recognizable routing number.
• Not have declared bankruptcy in the past year.
• Ensure no delinquencies are present on their current credit reports.
• Record fewer than six hard credit inquiries in the past six months, excluding inquiries for student, auto, or mortgage loans.

Pros

• Welcomes first-time credit users.
• Provides quick fund disbursement.
• Allows flexibility in adjusting payment due dates.
• Offers pre-qualification through a soft credit inquiry.
• Customer support available seven days a week.

Cons

• Origination fee may apply.
• Does not offer joint, co-signed, or secured loan options.
• Lacks a mobile application for loan management.
• Limited to two loan repayment terms.

OneMain Financial (Best for Good Rates)

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on website

OneMain Financial Personal Loan

4.5

Stilt’s lender ratings reflect the findings and opinions of our editorial staff. Our scoring methodologies consider a wide array of factors and data points for every lender, offering, and financial solution.

Min. credit score

None

Fixed APR

18.00-35.99%

Variable APR

N/A

View details

Overview

• Minimum credit score: None.
• Fixed APR: 18.00-35.99%.
• Loan amounts: $1,500-$20,000.
• Repayment: 2 to 5 years.

Qualifications

• Must possess a Social Security number or individual taxpayer identification number.
• Minimum age: 18 in most states.
• No set minimum credit score, but some credit history is preferable.
• No specific minimum income, but must cover personal expenses and the loan’s monthly payment.

Pros

• Flexibility to select and modify your payment date.
• Offers both joint and secured loan options.
• Provides quick loan disbursement.
• Enables direct payments to creditors for debt consolidation.
• Comes with a seven-day policy for loan cancellation.

Cons

• Interest rates are relatively high compared to competitors.
• An origination fee is applicable.
• Doesn’t offer any rate discounts.
• Offers a restricted range of loan amounts.
• APR is not displayed during pre-qualification.

SoFi (Best for Good Credit Score)

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SoFi Personal Loan

5.0

Stilt’s lender ratings reflect the findings and opinions of our editorial staff. Our scoring methodologies consider a wide array of factors and data points for every lender, offering, and financial solution.

Min. credit score

600

Fixed APR

8.99-35.99%

Variable APR

N/A

View details

Overview

• Minimum credit score: 660.
• Fixed APR: 8.99-29.99%.
• Loan amounts: $5,000-$100,000.
• Repayment: 2 to 7 years.

Qualifications

• Targets borrowers with good to excellent credit; fair credit may qualify.
• Minimum credit score of 660.
• At least two years of credit history.
• Proof of sufficient income sources or employment offer starting in less than 90 days.
• Must be a U.S. citizen, a permanent resident, or a visa holder (J-1, H-1B, E-2, O-1, or TN).

Pros

• Soft credit check is available for pre-qualification.
• Offers high loan amounts.
• 0.25% rate reduction for auto pay.
• No origination fee.
• No prepayment penalty.

Cons

• Minimum 660 credit score required.
• Minimum $5,000 loan amount.

Read More

• How to Cancel Uber Pass
• How to Cancel Chegg Subscription
• How to Cancel Adobe Subscription
• How to Cancel LinkedIn Premium

Final Thoughts

The method of how to cancel iCloud storage is very straightforward. It’s very similar to the steps to cancel Apple TV. The exact procedure depends on which device you use to cancel. After you cancel your iCloud storage, the data that you had stored is not deleted, but you will not be able to sync any new data if you have more than 5GB stored. The procedure for downgrading to a cheaper paid plan is the same as for canceling.

Frequently Asked Questions About Managing iCloud Storage

How can I free up space in my iCloud storage?

Begin by identifying which files are consuming the most space in iCloud. Optimize photo storage by using the ‘Optimize iPhone Storage’ option or delete unnecessary images. Manage messages and attachments, and delete old iCloud backups. You can also clean up iCloud Drive and manage email attachments to free up space.

Can I downgrade or cancel my iCloud+ plan?

Yes, you can downgrade or cancel your iCloud+ plan. On an iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch, this can be done via the Settings app under iCloud settings. On a Mac, use the Apple menu > System Settings > Apple ID > iCloud. For Windows, use iCloud for Windows application.

What should I do before downgrading or canceling my iCloud+ plan?

Before downgrading or canceling, ensure that you download or remove content that exceeds your new storage amount to avoid losing any information.

What are the consequences of downgrading or canceling my iCloud+ plan?

If your storage exceeds the capacity of the new plan, iCloud will not sync or update your information until you free up space. Downgrading to the free plan will result in losing access to certain iCloud+ features.

Can I get a refund if I cancel my iCloud+ plan?

Partial refunds may be available where required by law, especially if you change your mind within 14 days of altering your plan.

How do I manage iCloud backups to save space?

To manage iCloud backups, go to the Settings app on your iPhone, tap your Apple ID, then iCloud, and select Manage Account Storage. Here you can delete old backups.

Is it possible to free up iCloud space by managing emails?

Yes, deleting unnecessary emails, especially those with large attachments, can free up significant iCloud space.

Can I check how much space each app is using in iCloud?

Yes, you can view the space used by each app in your iCloud account through the Manage Account Storage option in the iCloud settings on your device.

Are there third-party apps that can help manage iCloud storage?

Yes, apps like Gemini for removing duplicates, CloudMounter for integrating cloud services, and AnyTrans for selective backups can help manage iCloud storage.

How do I optimize photo storage in iCloud?

Enable ‘Optimize iPhone Storage’ in the iCloud Photos settings to replace full-resolution photos with smaller versions and manually delete unnecessary photos.

Rohit Mittal

Rohit Mittal is the co-founder and CEO of Stilt. Rohit has extensive experience in credit risk analytics and data science. He spent years building credit risk and fraud models for top U.S. banks. In his current role, he defines the overall business strategy, leads debt and capital fundraising efforts, leads product development, and leads other customer-related aspects for the company. Stilt is backed by Y Combinator and has raised a total of $275M in debt and equity funding to date.

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