Leaving a VPN: The Complete Exit Checklist
When you decide to leave a VPN service — to switch providers, consolidate subscriptions, or stop using a VPN — there are a few steps worth completing before canceling to avoid data loss, billing surprises, or account headaches.
The Exit Checklist
1. Check your renewal date. If renewal is coming within 30 days, request a refund/cancel before it hits rather than after. Post-renewal refund requests, while often honored, add unnecessary friction.
2. Screenshot your account information. Take a screenshot of your account dashboard showing subscription end date, plan details, and any account credits. This documentation is useful if a billing dispute arises later.
3. Export any saved configurations. If you've set up custom server configurations, split tunneling rules, or other settings in the app, note these before canceling — you'll need to re-configure them on your new provider.
4. Cancel auto-renewal before canceling the account. Some providers distinguish between "cancel auto-renewal" (subscription ends at current term, no future charge) and "cancel account immediately" (may affect refund eligibility). Turn off auto-renewal first.
5. Verify the cancellation confirmation email. Don't assume the cancellation is complete without receiving a confirmation email. If you don't receive one within 24 hours, follow up with support.
6. Check for any remaining account credits. Some providers issue credits for support issues or promos that expire with the account. Ask support if any credits are present before closing.
7. Install and verify your new provider before closing the old one. Have your new VPN working before the old subscription ends to avoid a gap in coverage.
Where to Go After Leaving
NordVPN
$3.49/mo2-yr plan · 10 devices · 30-day money-back guarantee
If you're leaving a competitor for something better, NordVPN's 30-day money-back guarantee lets you try risk-free.
Try NordVPN Risk-FreeSurfshark
$2.49/mo27-mo plan · Unlimited devices · 30-day money-back guarantee
Unlimited devices and a 30-day guarantee — ideal test platform after leaving a provider with device limits.
Try Surfshark Risk-FreeFrequently Asked Questions
How do I cancel a VPN subscription without being charged again?
Turn off auto-renewal in your account dashboard before your next billing date. This stops future charges while maintaining access through the current subscription period. Don't wait until the billing date to cancel — payment systems often process charges before midnight.
Will I lose my data when I cancel a VPN account?
VPN services don't store user data logs (by policy, if they're legitimate). You may lose: saved server configurations, custom settings, and account preferences. Export or screenshot any custom configurations you've built before canceling.
Can I pause instead of canceling?
NordVPN and Surfshark both offer pause functionality. If you're canceling due to temporary non-use rather than dissatisfaction, pausing preserves your account and grandfathered rate without a gap that could lose them.