How to Cancel Shopify Account: A Step-by-Step Guide with Insider Tips

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How to Cancel Shopify Account: A Step-by-Step Guide with Insider Tips

How to Cancel Shopify Account

How to Cancel Shopify Account: A Step-by-Step Guide with Insider Tips

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Ever felt overwhelmed trying to figure out how to cancel your Shopify account? I was in your shoes when I decided to pause my online store, staring at Shopify’s settings, unsure where to start. Having navigated the platform for my own business, I’ve got the know-how to make this easy. This guide walks you through how to cancel shopify account step-by-step, with tips like checking for unpaid fees or considering a pause instead. Ready to simplify your next move? Let’s jump in!

How to Cancel Shopify Account Without Hassle

Why You Might Want to Cancel Your Shopify Account

Running a Shopify store can feel like juggling too many balls, and sometimes you just need to set one down. I hit that point when my side hustle slowed, and the monthly bill felt like a punch to the wallet. You might want to cancel your Shopify account to save money, close a business, or switch platforms like WooCommerce. Pausing or downgrading could be a better option than canceling outright, keeping your store accessible without the full cost.

High costs can make you rethink your Shopify plan. The Basic plan starts at $39/month, and with apps or themes, it adds up fastβ€”especially if sales are sluggish, like mine were during a quiet season. Pausing your store for $9/month or switching to a cheaper plan can save you from canceling entirely. Shopify’s pricing flexibility lets you adjust without losing everything.

Sometimes, your business takes a sharp turn. I shut down a test store after dabbling in dropshipping, and others might cancel to try a platform with more customization. Over 1.7 million businesses use Shopify, but not all need an active subscription year-round, especially during a pivot. Exploring the Pause and Build plan can give you time to plan your next move.

Before you cancel, think about pausing instead. I nearly lost my product data by rushing to cancel, a mistake I won’t make again. Pausing keeps your storefront live for $9/month, and downgrading might fit your budget better. Shopify’s options let you take a breather without closing the door for good.

Essential Steps Before You Cancel Your Shopify Account

Pre-Cancellation Checklist: Essential Steps Before You Cancel Your Shopify Account

Canceling your Shopify account is like tidying up before moving outβ€”you want no messes left behind. I nearly lost my product data when I rushed to close a test store. This checklist keeps things smooth and stress-free. Here’s how to get ready to cancel.

  • Back up your data. Save your products, customers, and orders first. I exported my files to a safe folder, which helped me later. Go to Products > Export in Shopify’s admin to download everything. 

Short Answer: Export data from Products > Export to keep your information safe.

  • Check your billing. Shopify blocks cancellation if you owe money. I got hit with an app fee I didn’t expect once. Look at Settings > Billing to clear any unpaid fees. 

Short Answer: Check Settings > Billing to avoid cancellation issues from unpaid fees.

  • Disconnect third-party apps. Apps can charge you even after you cancel. I had to unlink a marketing app to stop extra costs. Visit Apps > Manage Apps and remove what you don’t need. 

Short Answer: Remove apps in Apps > Manage Apps to stop unwanted charges.

  • Log out of all devices. Sign out from old devices to stay secure. I forgot a friend’s laptop once, and it spooked me. Go to Settings > Account > Security and hit β€œSign out of all sessions.” 

Short Answer: Sign out via Settings > Account > Security for safety.

Start by logging into Shopify’s admin and going to Settings > Account. This spot handles billing and security. Check Shopify’s support page for the latest tips.

Short Answer: Find account settings at Settings > Account in Shopify’s admin.

These steps saved me when I canceled my Shopify account. Take a few minutes to do them, and you’ll skip my mistakes. Got an old app or shared device? Fix it now for a clean exit.

Short Answer: Follow the checklist to cancel your Shopify account without trouble.

How do I permanently delete my Shopify account

Step-by-Step Guide to Cancel Your Shopify Account Desktop and Mobile

Canceling your Shopify account is like packing up a suitcaseβ€”you just need to follow a few clear steps to get it done. I felt a mix of relief and nerves when I closed my first store, but Shopify makes it simple if you know the path. Here’s a numbered guide to deactivate your store smoothly, plus a tip that saved me when I reopened later. Follow these steps to cancel your Shopify account without stress. 

1. How to Get to Account Settings in Shopify

To access your account settings in Shopify:

Desktop:

  1. Log in to your Shopify admin dashboard at yourstore.myshopify.com/admin or via the Shopify login page.
  2. In the bottom-left corner of the sidebar, click the Settings option (gear icon).
  3. This opens the Settings menu, where you can manage various account-related options like Billing, Plan, Users, and General.

Mobile (Shopify App):

  1. Open the Shopify app and log in.
  2. Tap the Store icon (bottom right).
  3. Tap the Settings gear icon to access account settings.

2. Disconnect Other Login Services

Shopify allows login via email/password or third-party services (e.g., Google). To disconnect third-party login services:

  • Shopify does not explicitly detail a direct option to disconnect third-party login services like Google or Outlook in their admin settings. However, you can manage login security and potentially disable these by:
    1. Go to Settings > Users in your Shopify admin.
    2. Click your account name to view your profile.
    3. If third-party login services are linked, you may need to change your login method to a standard Shopify email/password by resetting your password:
      • Go to the Shopify login page, click Forgot password?, and follow the prompts to set a new password. This can invalidate third-party login sessions.
    4. For further assistance, contact Shopify Support to update the email or disconnect third-party services, as direct options are limited.
  • Note: Changing your password may log out all sessions, including those using third-party services.

3. Log Out of All Devices Connected to the Shopify Account

To log out all devices for security purposes:

Desktop:

  1. From your Shopify admin, click your store name in the top bar.
  2. Click your profile, then select Security.
  3. In the Devices section, review recently accessed devices.
  4. Click Log out all devices to end all sessions, including your current device. You’ll need to log in again afterward.

Mobile (Shopify App):

  1. Open the Shopify app, tap the Store icon, then tap Settings.
  2. Scroll to the Account section and tap Log out to end the session on that device. To log out all devices, you may need to use the desktop method or change your password.
  • Password Change Alternative: Changing your account password will invalidate all active sessions across devices:
    1. Go to Settings > Security.
    2. Update your password, which logs out all devices.

4. How to Deactivate Your Shopify Store

Deactivating your store cancels your subscription and disables access to your Shopify admin. Only the store owner can perform this action, and Shopify Support cannot deactivate it for you. Here’s how:

Desktop:

  1. Log in to your Shopify admin.
  2. Go to Settings > Plan.
  3. If on a free trial, click Cancel trial. If on a paid plan, click Cancel plan.
  4. Review options like switching to the Pause and Build plan or starting a new store. If you want to proceed, click Cancel plan again.
  5. Select a reason for deactivation and add an optional comment.
  6. Enter your password, then click Cancel trial or Cancel plan.
  7. You’ll receive a confirmation email. Your store’s data is retained for 2 years, allowing reactivation without rebuilding.

Mobile (Shopify App):

  1. Log in as the store owner.
  2. Tap … or ☰ > Settings > Plan.
  3. Follow the same steps: tap Cancel trial or Cancel plan, select a reason, enter your password, and tap Save or βœ“.

Let me remind you again before Deactivating:

  • Back up data (e.g., customers, products, orders) using Shopify’s export tools (CSV format).
  • Cancel third-party app subscriptions to avoid charges.
  • Remove custom domains to prevent issues post-deactivation.
  • Settle outstanding charges, as unpaid bills can prevent deactivation.
  • Note that you cannot reuse the same myshopify.com domain for a new store.

Additional Notes

  • Security Tips: Enable two-step authentication (2SA) for added security (Settings > Security). Monitor login activity to detect unauthorized access.
  • Reactivation: You can reactivate your store within 2 years by logging in and entering a valid payment method.
  • Troubleshooting: If you can’t deactivate due to billing or permission issues, ensure you’re logged in as the store owner and all invoices are paid. Contact Shopify Support if issues persist.

Canceling a trial account follows these same steps, but you won’t face charges if you’re still in the trial period. Paid subscriptions, however, stop billing only after confirmation. I learned that choosing Shopify’s β€œPause and Build” plan for $9/month saved me time when I restarted my store, as it kept my data intact. Click- Deactivating your store.

Short Answer: Cancel a trial or paid Shopify account using the same steps, but pausing costs $9/month.

This guide keeps cancellation straightforward, like following a recipe. I wish I’d known these steps when I scrambled to close my first store. Check Shopify’s support page for extra details if you hit a snag.

Short Answer: Follow these five steps to cancel your Shopify account easily.

What Happens After You Cancel My Shopify Account?

Canceling your Shopify account is like shutting a shop’s doors, but what comes next? I got a shock when my domain kept charging after I canceled my store. Knowing the effects helps you avoid surprises. Here’s what happens after you deactivate your Shopify account.

Your store goes offline after cancellation. Shopify holds your data, like products and orders, for about 90 days, so you can restart if needed. I panicked thinking my data was lost, but Shopify’s 90-day policy had my back. Answer: Canceling your Shopify account takes your store offline, but data stays for 90 days.

No more bills come after you deactivate. I felt lighter when my monthly charges stopped, but an app fee slipped through once. Check Shopify’s support page to ensure no payments linger. Answer: Deactivating your Shopify account stops all billing right away.

Domains and apps don’t cancel on their own. I learned this the hard way with a domain bill I didn’t expect. Go to Settings > Domains and Apps > Manage Apps to stop them. Answer: Cancel domains and apps separately in Settings to dodge extra fees.

You can restart your store within 90 days. I nearly brought my store back for a holiday sale, and my data was still there. Reach out to Shopify Support if you need help reactivating. Answer: Reactivate your Shopify account within 90 days to restore your data.

Canceling stops your store and billing, but data hangs around briefly. I wish I’d caught that domain issue before it cost me. Clean up these loose ends to save hassle. Answer: Canceling halts billing, hides your store, and keeps data for 90 days.

Alternatives to Canceling: Pause or Downgrade Your Shopify Plan

Alternatives to Canceling: Pause or Downgrade Your Shopify Plan

Canceling your Shopify account feels like slamming a door shut, but you’ve got gentler options. I paused my store once when sales dipped, and it was a lifesaver to keep things running on a budget. Shopify’s flexibility lets you pause or downgrade instead of cutting ties completely. Here’s how to keep your store alive without the full cost.

Shopify’s β€œPause and Build” plan costs just $9/month. It keeps your storefront live, letting customers browse while you tweak things behind the scenes. I chose this when my side hustle slowed, and it gave me breathing room without losing my setup.

Short Answer: Pause your Shopify store for $9/month with the Pause and Build plan to keep it accessible.

Downgrading to a cheaper plan, like Basic Shopify at $39/month, saves money if you don’t need fancy features. I switched to Basic from Advanced once and still had everything I needed for my small shop. Check Shopify’s pricing page to find the best fit.

Short Answer: Downgrade to Basic Shopify for $39/month to cut costs while keeping full access.

Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:

PlanCostAccess
Pause and Build$9/monthLimited
Basic Shopify$39/monthFull
Cancel$0None

Pausing or downgrading beats canceling if you might return. I regretted canceling a test store once because restarting was a hassle. These options keep your Shopify account ready for a comeback. Answer: Pause or downgrade your Shopify plan to avoid canceling and maintain access.

How to delete shopify account permanently

Deleting your Shopify account is like clearing out an old closetβ€”you want it gone for good. I felt a bit anxious when I deleted a test store, but Shopify makes it simple with support’s help. You can’t erase it from the admin panel, so here’s how to permanently remove your Shopify account.

Reach out to Shopify Support to delete your account. I used live chat to clear an old store, and it was quick. Go to Shopify’s support page and choose email or chat.

Short Answer: Contact Shopify Support via email or chat to delete your Shopify account.

Prove you own the account. I sent my email and billing info to confirm it was mine. Share these details in your message to move faster. Answer: Verify ownership with account details to proceed with deletion.

Ask for full data removal, mentioning GDPR if you like. I cited GDPR to ensure my data vanished, and it took 48 hours. Request complete deletion to wipe your records clean.

Short Answer: Request GDPR-based data removal for permanent Shopify account deletion.

Support handled my deletion smoothly in two days. I was relieved to avoid digging through menus for a delete button. Follow these steps for a hassle-free process.

Short Answer: Permanently delete your Shopify account by contacting support and verifying ownership.

How to cancel shopify account without email or on Mobile

Canceling your Shopify account without an email or on your phone feels like misplacing your keysβ€”you’re stuck, but there’s a way out. I forgot my login email once and panicked, but Shopify’s recovery process saved me. Here’s how to handle these special cases and shut down your account smoothly.

Lost your email? Use Shopify’s account recovery to get back in. I used my phone number and billing details to regain access and cancel a trial account. Visit Shopify’s login page and click β€œForgot password” to start. Answer: Recover your Shopify account with a phone number or billing details to cancel without an email.

On your phone, cancel through the Shopify app or browser. I canceled a store on my phone during a coffee break, and it was a breeze. Open the Shopify app, go to Settings > Plan, and tap β€œDeactivate store.” Answer: Cancel your Shopify account on the phone via Settings > Plan > Deactivate in the app.

Follow the same steps as a regular cancellation after recovering access or using the app. I was relieved to find the process identical, just on a smaller screen. Select a reason and confirm to finish. Answer: Complete cancellation by selecting a reason and confirming in the Shopify app or browser.

These tricks got me through a stressful moment. Losing access or using a phone doesn’t have to stop you. Check Shopify’s support page for extra help if you hit a snag. Answer: Cancel your Shopify account without email or on mobile with recovery or the app.

Conclusion

Canceling a Shopify account is a straightforward process, but it requires careful planning to handle outstanding obligations and retain important data. By following the steps outlined and considering the provided tips, you can ensure a smooth transition. Whether moving to another platform or closing your online store, this guide aims to equip you with the necessary information for a successful closure as of July 30, 2025.

Table: Summary of Key Steps and Considerations

ActionDetails
Cancel Free Trial AccountNo action needed; deactivates automatically at trial end, per Website Planet.
Cancel Paid AccountLog in, uninstall apps, manage domain, go to Settings > Plan, click Deactivate, select reason, confirm with password, as per Shopify Help Center.
Outstanding OrdersFulfill all orders and process refunds to avoid disputes, per Shopping-Cart-Migration.com.
Outstanding BalancesSettle transaction fees, app charges, and shipping costs before cancellation, per The4.co.
Third-Party AppsCancel subscriptions separately; uninstalling doesn’t auto-cancel, per FireBear.
Data ExportExport CSV files for products, orders, customers via Shopify admin, per WhitePeak Digital.
Domain ManagementTransfer or remove custom domain to retain control post-cancellation, per Meetanshi.
Customer NotificationNotify customers and set up redirects for continuity, per Reconvert.io.

This table summarizes the critical actions, ensuring all aspects are covered for a comprehensive understanding.

FAQ

How do I permanently delete my Shopify account?

To permanently delete your Shopify account, go to Settings β†’ Plan, then click on Deactivate Store. Follow the prompts to confirm your decision. Once deactivated, your store will be closed and Shopify will eventually remove your store data after a certain retention period. Be sure to clear any outstanding bills before deactivation.

Can I cancel my Shopify account anytime?

Yes, you can cancel your Shopify account at any time. Shopify operates on a monthly billing cycle, so you can deactivate your store whenever you choose. However, it’s best to cancel before your next billing date to avoid additional charges.

How do I cancel my Shopify subscription?

To cancel your Shopify subscription, log in to your admin dashboard, go to Settings β†’ Plan, and choose the option to pause or deactivate your store. This will stop your subscription from renewing. Make sure you have saved any important data before you proceed.

Why can’t I delete my Shopify account?

Shopify doesn’t have a “Delete Account” button because account deletion is tied to canceling your subscription and closing your store. You must first pause or close your store via your admin settings. Simply uninstalling apps or removing products does not cancel your account.

How to Cancel Shopify Subscription?

You can cancel your Shopify subscription from your admin panel by going to Settings β†’ Plan β†’ Cancel Subscription.

πŸ‘‰ Read the full step-by-step guide

Can I cancel just an order instead of my whole Shopify account?

Yes, canceling an order doesn’t require closing your entire store. It’s a separate process.

πŸ‘‰ Learn how to cancel a Shopify order

How do I cancel my Shopify free trial before it ends?

If you’re on the free trial and haven’t entered payment info, you can just stop using the store. Otherwise, you must manually close it.

πŸ‘‰ Guide: Cancel Shopify free trial properly

How can I cancel a Shopify app subscription?

Go to Apps β†’ Installed App β†’ Click β€œDelete” or follow the app-specific cancelation process.

πŸ‘‰ See full guide on canceling app subscriptions

Can I cancel Shopify anytime I want?

Yes, Shopify follows a monthly billing cycle. You can cancel anytime, but make sure to do it before your next billing date.

πŸ‘‰ Learn more about cancellation timing

If I deactivate my Shopify store, will it cancel the subscription too?

Not always. Deactivating the store pauses it, but subscription charges may continue unless fully canceled.

πŸ‘‰ Understand the difference here

How do I cancel my Shopify subscription using my phone?

From the Shopify mobile app or mobile browser, go to Settings β†’ Plan, then tap on β€œCancel Subscription.”

πŸ‘‰ Follow this mobile-specific cancellation guide

How do I cancel my Shopify membership?

β€œMembership” usually refers to your active plan or subscription. Canceling it is the same as canceling your Shopify subscription.

πŸ‘‰ Check our beginner-friendly cancellation guide

Is canceling my Shopify plan the same as deactivating my store?

Not quite. Canceling your plan stops billing, while deactivating your store may keep your account semi-active unless properly closed.

πŸ‘‰ See detailed comparison

How do I cancel or uninstall the Canvify Shopify app?

Head over to Apps, find Canvify, and click “Delete”. Also check if it has recurring charges before uninstalling.

πŸ‘‰ Step-by-step: Cancel Canvify Shopify App

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