Canceling a PCH Intelius subscription can seem confusing due to the multiple steps involved and varying cancellation methods. Intelius offers background checks, people searches, and reverse phone lookups, which are helpful for both personal and professional use. However, if you no longer need these services, knowing how to cancel the subscription efficiently is key to avoiding unwanted recurring charges. Understanding the process will make it much easier to manage your account and prevent future billing issues.
Many people subscribe to Intelius for background check services and personal information lookups but later find that they either don’t use it frequently enough or are dissatisfied with the charges. Whether you’re dealing with unwanted charges or simply looking to cancel, following the right steps is crucial. You have several ways to end your Intelius membership, including online cancellation and phone support, each with specific details to consider.
In this guide, we’ll break down how to cancel your PCH Intelius subscription, covering each method, common questions, and tips to ensure a smooth process. We’ll also discuss steps to take after cancellation to confirm that recurring charges are stopped, as well as options to manage or switch your background check services. By following these clear steps, you’ll have a full understanding of your options and can handle the cancellation confidently.
Overview of the PCH Intelius Subscription Service
PCH Intelius is a widely known background check service and people search platform that offers subscription-based services for conducting background checks, reverse phone lookups, address lookups, and more. These tools are often used by people who want to verify personal connections, reconnect with long-lost friends, or gather details for personal safety reasons.
The Intelius service is highly regarded for its comprehensive background check services, which provide information such as criminal records, contact details, and residential history. However, while this information can be helpful, the service comes with ongoing costs, and the value of a subscription may decrease over time as your personal needs change.
PCH Intelius offers various subscription plans and features, which we’ll explore in detail below.
Key Intelius Subscription Plans
To get a clearer picture of the value and costs associated with the Intelius service, let’s look at some of the common subscription plans available through PCH Intelius. These plans often determine the depth of access you get to the platform’s features, and understanding the options can help you decide whether or not to keep or cancel your subscription.
Breakdown of Intelius Membership Plans
Plan | Monthly Cost | Features Included |
Basic People Search Plan | $9.95/month | Limited background info and basic people search |
Premium People Search Plan | $29.95/month | Full access to criminal records, addresses, etc. |
Trial Plan | $0.95 – $1.95 | Limited trial access for a short period |
Additional Fees
Some users also encounter additional fees tied to the subscription, which might be connected to background check reports that go beyond the standard offerings in a plan. These fees vary based on report type and the specific data requested. If you are exploring cancellation to avoid extra costs, keep these additional fees in mind, as they could impact your overall decision.
Reasons You Might Want to Cancel Your Intelius Subscription
There are a few common reasons why people decide to cancel their PCH Intelius subscription. It’s essential to understand your motivations to make the best decision and to follow the correct steps if you proceed with cancellation.
Common Reasons for Canceling an Intelius Subscription
- High Subscription Costs
While Intelius membership plans offer useful features, many users find that the ongoing cost, especially for the Premium plan, isn’t sustainable or practical in the long term. - Sufficient Use of Services
Some users subscribe to Intelius for a single purpose, such as a background check on a specific individual or a reverse phone lookup. Once that need is met, they may no longer require ongoing access and therefore prefer to end their Intelius membership. - Availability of Alternative Services
Other background check platforms and people search tools provide similar services at lower costs or with different features. Users may find that switching to another service better aligns with their needs and budget. - Dissatisfaction with Service Quality
Some users have reported inaccuracies in background check information or issues with the Intelius platform. Dissatisfaction with the service can often lead users to cancel, especially if they feel they are not receiving accurate data for the cost. - Recurring Charges and Auto-Renewal Concerns
PCH Intelius employs an auto-renewal feature, which means users are automatically billed every month unless they manually cancel their subscription. This recurring billing can catch some users off guard, especially if they didn’t realize the subscription would renew.
These reasons may or may not apply to you, but considering them can help clarify your decision to proceed with cancellation. If you’re experiencing ongoing issues, contact Intelius customer support to explore whether they might be able to resolve your concerns without full cancellation.
How to Cancel PCH Intelius Subscription: Detailed Steps
Let’s get into the Intelius cancellation process. You have multiple options to cancel your Intelius membership: online, over the phone, or by email. Each method has its unique set of steps, so choose the one that best fits your preference and needs.
Important Information to Gather Before Cancellation
Before beginning the cancellation process, gather any account information that will facilitate a smooth process. Some key details include:
- Account ID or subscription reference number
- Confirmation emails from Intelius, which often include account setup information
- Payment method details, if you need to reference billing information
- Billing statements showing recent charges
Having this information at hand will prevent delays and ensure the Intelius support team can quickly assist you if needed.
Method 1: How to Cancel Intelius Subscription Online
One of the easiest ways to cancel your Intelius subscription is by logging into the platform and following the steps through your account settings.
- Log into Your Intelius Account
First, head to the Intelius website and log in to your account using your email and password. - Access Subscription Settings
In your account, locate the settings section. Here, you’ll find options related to managing your subscription, such as viewing current plans and stopping auto-renewal. - Select Cancellation Option
Under “Manage Subscription” or “Billing,” you should find an option to cancel your subscription. Follow the prompts provided by Intelius, which may include confirming your cancellation reason. - Confirm Cancellation and Receive Confirmation
After completing the steps, confirm your cancellation. Intelius should send a confirmation email indicating that your subscription has been canceled and that auto-renewal has stopped.
It’s crucial to retain this cancellation confirmation email for your records in case any issues arise with future billing. Logging back into your account after a few days can also verify that your membership status shows “canceled.”
Method 2: Canceling PCH Intelius Subscription Over the Phone
If online cancellation isn’t an option for you, canceling over the phone can be equally effective. This approach allows you to speak directly with an Intelius representative, who can address any questions you may have during the process.
- Contact Intelius Customer Support
Call the Intelius customer support number, which can be found on their official website under the “Contact Us” or “Help” sections. Customer service hours vary, so ensure you’re calling during their open hours for a faster response. - Verify Account Information
The representative will typically ask for your account ID or the email associated with your Intelius account to verify your identity. Be ready to provide any relevant account details, as this helps expedite the process. - Request Cancellation
Clearly request to cancel your Intelius subscription. The representative may ask why you’re canceling or may offer retention offers such as discounts. Politely decline if you’re sure about your decision to cancel. - Receive Cancellation Confirmation
After the representative completes the cancellation, they may provide you with a verbal confirmation. You should also receive an email confirmation within a few hours or days. Keep this email to confirm your Intelius subscription cancellation in case any future billing issues arise.
Method 3: Cancel Intelius Subscription via Email
While less immediate than online or phone cancellation, canceling by email is a reliable option if you don’t need an instant response.
- Compose a Cancellation Email
Use the Intelius support email listed on their website and include essential account details in your message, such as your account ID, email, and any relevant billing information. - Include a Direct Request to Cancel
State your request to cancel in clear terms. To avoid any delays, ensure you provide all necessary information and indicate that you do not want your Intelius membership to auto-renew. - Await Response and Confirmation
Once your email is sent, allow one to three business days for a response. Intelius should reply with a confirmation email, officially ending your subscription.
Preventing Future Charges from Intelius
After you’ve canceled, it’s wise to take additional steps to avoid unexpected charges. Even after cancellation, it’s possible for issues to arise with recurring billing, especially if there was a lag in processing your request. Here are some proactive measures to ensure you won’t be charged again:
- Check Your Bank Statements Regularly
After canceling your Intelius membership, review your bank statements to ensure no additional charges appear. Sometimes, residual charges from the previous billing cycle may occur. If you see any discrepancies, contact Intelius customer support promptly to address them. - Turn Off Auto-Renewal Manually
If the online cancellation process didn’t clearly stop auto-renewal, revisit your Intelius account settings to confirm that it’s disabled. This is essential because sometimes subscription settings remain active, especially if the cancellation is processed close to the renewal date. - Monitor Email Confirmations
Keep an eye on email updates from Intelius. Sometimes, you may receive promotional emails even after canceling, which may indicate a partial or pending subscription status. Ensure you’ve received a formal cancellation confirmation email with a clear statement of the end of recurring billing. - Contact Customer Service if Necessary
If you notice any billing issues, reach out to Intelius as soon as possible. Use their customer support number or email to speak with a representative, providing your cancellation reference if needed. Many users have found success in disputing unauthorized charges, especially if they can provide proof of a prior cancellation request.
Following these steps will help solidify your cancellation and prevent any ongoing charges or account complications.
How to Request a Refund for Your Intelius Subscription
If you’re seeking a refund for your Intelius subscription, it’s essential to understand the refund policies and timelines. Refunds are typically issued on a case-by-case basis, as Intelius charges and fees depend on the type of plan and your usage. Here’s how you can maximize your chances of receiving a refund:
- Review Intelius’s Refund Policy
Intelius generally does not offer refunds for monthly charges, especially if you’ve actively used the service. However, in cases where there was a billing error, or if you canceled right after a renewal, you might qualify for a partial refund. Checking the terms and conditions of your Intelius subscription plan can give you insight into their policies on refunds and disputed charges. - Contact Customer Support Quickly
Contact Intelius customer support within a few days of noticing the charge. Explain why you’re requesting a refund whether it’s due to accidental auto-renewal, billing error, or dissatisfaction with the service. Politeness and clear documentation (such as a copy of your cancellation confirmation) can often improve your chances of success. - Provide Necessary Account and Payment Information
Having all necessary details, such as your account ID, the transaction ID from your bank statement, and any confirmation emails from Intelius, can help expedite the refund process. The representative may need these details to verify the charge and determine eligibility. - Await Refund Confirmation
If your refund request is approved, you’ll likely receive an email confirmation. Refunds may take a few business days to reflect in your account, so be patient and monitor your bank statement to verify receipt.
While refunds are not guaranteed, prompt action and clear communication can increase your chances of success. Some users have successfully received refunds by showing proof of early cancellation or by highlighting billing errors.
Managing Your Intelius Account: Tips and Alternatives
If you’re considering ending your Intelius membership due to the cost or limited use, there are a few steps to help manage your account and possibly save money on background check services.
Lower-Cost Alternatives to Intelius
For some users, switching to a lower-cost background check service may be preferable to canceling entirely. Here are a few options that provide similar background search features, often with different pricing plans.
Alternative | Features | Cost |
Instant Checkmate | Basic background info, limited searches | Starting at $9.95/month |
BeenVerified | Full background checks, criminal history | Starting at $26.89/month |
Spokeo | People search, address lookup | Starting at $13.95/month |
Choosing an alternative depends on your specific needs, whether you need reverse phone lookup, people search, or access to detailed background information. Testing out other platforms may reveal options that meet your needs without the high monthly fees associated with PCH Intelius.
Disabling Auto-Renewal and Periodic Subscription Reviews
For users who don’t need continuous access to background check services, setting reminders to review or disable auto-renewal can save time and money. Some subscription platforms offer quarterly or semi-annual review options, allowing users to manually activate their subscription only when they need it.
In addition, reviewing your subscription plans regularly will help you identify whether the service still provides value, especially as your personal or professional needs change.
Final Thoughts
Canceling your PCH Intelius subscription doesn’t have to be overwhelming when you know the steps involved and the various options for managing your account. Whether you choose to cancel online or over the phone, ensuring you follow the official process is key to a successful cancellation. Verifying your cancellation and confirming with Intelius customer support can help prevent unexpected charges from recurring on your account, making it easy to manage your finances and avoid any unnecessary costs.
Remember, understanding your Intelius subscription plans and familiarizing yourself with their cancellation policies puts you in control of your account. Always make sure to receive confirmation after cancellation, and check your bank statements to ensure no additional charges occur. Following these best practices will help you handle your Intelius subscription cancellation smoothly and give you peace of mind moving forward.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I cancel my PCH Intelius subscription?
To cancel your PCH Intelius subscription, you can either log in to your account on their website, navigate to the subscription settings, and follow the cancellation prompts, or you can call Intelius customer support directly. Make sure to confirm the cancellation to avoid future charges and receive a cancellation confirmation email.
Is Intelius hard to cancel?
Canceling an Intelius subscription can be straightforward if you follow the steps provided on their website or speak directly with customer support. However, some users report challenges in reaching confirmation, so it’s recommended to double-check by contacting customer support and ensuring all recurring charges are stopped.
How do I delete an Intelius account?
To delete your Intelius account, log in to your profile on the Intelius website and visit the account settings or privacy settings section. You may need to contact their support team directly, as deleting an account is often a separate process from canceling a subscription.
What is PCH Intelius?
PCH Intelius is a subscription service offered by Publishers Clearing House (PCH) that provides access to Intelius’ people search, background check, and reverse phone lookup tools. These services allow users to gather detailed personal and public records for personal or professional use.
How do I cancel my online subscription?
To cancel your online subscription with Intelius, log in to your account, locate the subscription or billing section, and follow the on-screen steps to cancel. Ensure that you save any cancellation confirmation to have proof of the process, and monitor your bank statement for any additional charges.
Salikh Korgay is the author behind Cyber Rised, a blog dedicated to exploring the latest trends in technology and cybersecurity. With a passion for breaking down complex tech topics, Salikh provides readers with practical guides and insightful commentary to help them navigate the digital world. From tech enthusiasts to professionals, Salikh’s writing empowers audiences to stay informed and secure in the fast-evolving cyber landscape.