Ending your My Score IQ membership made easy

About My Score IQ

My Score IQ is a credit monitoring service operating in the United Kingdom that provides consumers with access to their credit scores and reports. The service pulls credit information from major credit reference agencies and presents it in an accessible format, allowing users to track their credit health over time. Like many credit monitoring services, My Score IQ operates on a subscription basis, typically offering an initial trial period before transitioning to paid monthly membership.

The service gained prominence in the UK market by offering what appears to be a free trial to check your credit score. However, many consumers discover that they've inadvertently signed up for a recurring subscription that continues charging their payment method unless actively cancelled. This business model, whilst legal, has led to numerous complaints from users who weren't fully aware they were entering into an ongoing financial commitment.

My Score IQ provides features such as credit score tracking, credit report monitoring, and alerts about changes to your credit file. The platform aims to help users understand their creditworthiness and identify potential issues that might affect their ability to obtain credit, mortgages, or other financial products. However, with the proliferation of free credit checking services in the UK market, many consumers find they no longer need paid subscriptions like My Score IQ.

Understanding what you've signed up for is the first step in the cancellation process. Most importantly, knowing your rights under UK consumer law will ensure you can exit the service cleanly without ongoing charges. Keep in mind that credit monitoring services are regulated financial products, which means specific consumer protections apply to how they operate and how you can cancel them.

Plans, features and pricing

My Score IQ typically structures its offering around a trial period followed by ongoing monthly charges. The pricing model can be somewhat opaque, as the service often partners with various websites and affiliates, meaning the exact terms you agreed to might vary depending on where you signed up. This is precisely why reviewing your original agreement is crucial before attempting cancellation.

Standard pricing structure

Based on typical consumer experiences, My Score IQ generally operates with the following structure, though you should verify the specific terms you agreed to:

The trial period typically lasts between 7 to 14 days. Here's the critical part that catches many people out: unless you cancel before the trial ends, you're automatically enrolled in the full-price monthly subscription. The charge appears on your bank statement or credit card, often catching users by surprise.

Features included in membership

My Score IQ subscriptions generally include access to your credit score from one or more credit reference agencies, regular updates to your credit report, and email alerts when significant changes occur on your credit file. Some packages may include identity monitoring features or additional credit education resources. However, many consumers find these features replicate what's available for free from services like ClearScore, Credit Karma, or directly from Experian and Equifax.

Additionally, the service may provide credit improvement tips and tools to help you understand factors affecting your score. Whilst these can be useful, they're rarely unique to My Score IQ, which is why many members decide to cancel once they realise free alternatives exist.

Why members choose to cancel

From processing thousands of cancellation requests, several patterns emerge. First, many users genuinely didn't realise they'd signed up for a recurring subscription. They thought they were simply checking their credit score once. Next, even those who understood the subscription model often find the monthly fee unjustifiable when free alternatives provide similar information. Most importantly, some consumers discover the service after noticing unexpected charges on their bank statements, prompting immediate cancellation.

Other common reasons include having already improved their credit score and no longer needing monitoring, consolidating financial services with their bank, or simply tightening their budget by eliminating non-essential subscriptions. Whatever your reason, you have every right to cancel, and the process should be straightforward when done correctly.

Terms of service and cancellation policy

Understanding the legal framework surrounding your My Score IQ subscription is essential before initiating cancellation. UK consumer law provides robust protections, particularly for services sold online or through distance selling arrangements. These regulations work in your favour when cancelling subscriptions.

Consumer rights under UK law

The Consumer Contracts Regulations 2013 give you specific rights when purchasing services online. Most importantly, you have a 14-day cooling-off period from the date you entered the contract, during which you can cancel for any reason without penalty. This applies even if you've used the service during this period, though the company may charge for services already provided on a pro-rata basis.

Beyond the cooling-off period, your cancellation rights depend on the terms and conditions you agreed to when signing up. However, UK law requires that cancellation processes must not be unduly burdensome. Companies cannot make it significantly harder to cancel than it was to sign up, a principle that's increasingly enforced by regulators and consumer protection bodies.

Notice periods and final charges

Most subscription services, including My Score IQ, operate on a monthly billing cycle. The typical notice period required is either immediate (cancellation takes effect at the end of the current billing period) or 30 days. Keep in mind that you'll usually need to cancel before your next billing date to avoid being charged for another month.

Here's a critical insider tip: companies process cancellations during business days only. If your billing date falls on a weekend or bank holiday, and your cancellation arrives on that day, it may not be processed until the following business day. This could mean you're charged for another month. Always build in a buffer of at least five working days.

Refund policies and what to expect

If you cancel within the 14-day cooling-off period, you're generally entitled to a refund for any charges beyond the trial fee, minus a pro-rata amount for services used. After this period, refunds become discretionary and depend on the company's goodwill and the circumstances of your cancellation.

Additionally, if you were charged due to unclear terms, misleading information, or because the cancellation process was made unreasonably difficult, you may have grounds to request a full refund through your bank via chargeback procedures or through alternative dispute resolution. Keep all documentation related to your subscription and cancellation attempts, as this evidence becomes crucial if disputes arise.

Why postal cancellation is the most reliable method

After handling thousands of subscription cancellations, I can confidently say that postal cancellation using Recorded Delivery is the gold standard for ensuring your cancellation is processed correctly and you have undeniable proof it was received. Whilst it might seem old-fashioned in our digital age, there are compelling reasons why this method surpasses others.

The proof problem with other methods

Many companies make cancellation difficult by design. Online cancellation portals may be hidden deep within account settings, deliberately confusing, or may mysteriously malfunction when you attempt to cancel. I've seen countless cases where consumers swear they cancelled online, only to continue being charged because there's no proof the cancellation was submitted or processed.

Phone cancellations present different challenges. First, you might face long hold times designed to frustrate you into giving up. Next, retention specialists may pressure you to stay, making the process uncomfortable. Most importantly, unless you record the call (which requires informing the other party), you have no proof the cancellation was requested. Companies can claim the call never happened or that you agreed to continue the service.

Legal weight of postal evidence

A letter sent via Royal Mail Recorded Delivery provides legally admissible proof of posting and delivery. The signature upon receipt creates an undeniable paper trail that companies cannot dispute. This is particularly valuable if you later need to challenge ongoing charges with your bank or pursue a complaint through alternative dispute resolution services.

Keep in mind that UK courts and financial ombudsmen recognise Recorded Delivery as gold-standard evidence. If a company claims they never received your cancellation, your proof of delivery certificate immediately invalidates that defence. This legal protection is worth the small additional cost of sending your letter via tracked service.

How services like Postclic simplify the process

Whilst you can certainly write and post a cancellation letter yourself, services like Postclic streamline the entire process. Rather than finding envelopes, stamps, and visiting the post office, Postclic allows you to send tracked letters digitally. You compose your message online, and they handle printing, enveloping, and posting via Recorded Delivery on your behalf.

Additionally, Postclic provides digital proof of sending and delivery, which you can access anytime from your account. This is particularly useful if you need to reference your cancellation months later when reviewing bank statements or dealing with unexpected charges. The service costs roughly the same as posting yourself when you factor in materials and post office queues, but saves considerable time and hassle.

Most importantly, using a professional service ensures your letter is formatted correctly, includes all necessary information, and is sent to the correct address. These might seem like small details, but they eliminate common mistakes that can delay or invalidate cancellation attempts.

Complete guide to cancelling My Score IQ by post

Now let's walk through the exact process for cancelling your My Score IQ subscription via postal mail. Follow these steps carefully to ensure your cancellation is processed smoothly and you stop being charged.

Step one: gather your account information

Before writing your cancellation letter, collect all relevant information about your subscription. You'll need your full name as it appears on the account, your email address associated with the subscription, and ideally your customer reference number if you have one. Check your email inbox for the original confirmation message you received when signing up, as this often contains useful reference information.

Additionally, note down the payment method being charged (last four digits of your card or bank account) and the date you're typically billed each month. This information helps the company locate your account quickly and process your cancellation without delays. Keep in mind that the more specific information you provide, the less excuse the company has to claim they couldn't find your account.

Step two: compose your cancellation letter

Your cancellation letter should be clear, concise, and formal. Start with your full name and contact details at the top, followed by the date. Address it to the customer service or cancellations department. In the body, state clearly that you wish to cancel your My Score IQ subscription with immediate effect, or from the end of your current billing period.

Include all the account information you gathered in step one. Specifically request written confirmation of your cancellation and confirmation that no further charges will be applied to your payment method. This request for confirmation is crucial, as it creates an obligation for the company to respond and provides you with additional documentation if problems arise later.

Here's a critical tip: keep your letter factual and unemotional. You don't need to explain why you're cancelling or justify your decision. Simply state that you're exercising your right to cancel the service. Avoid phrases like "please" or "I would like to" – instead use definitive language such as "I am cancelling" or "I require confirmation." This removes any ambiguity about your intentions.

Step three: send via Recorded Delivery

Once your letter is written, you need to send it to the correct address using a tracked postal service. The official postal address for My Score IQ cancellations is:

• My Score IQ
• Customer Services
• PO Box 71367
• London
• SW1P 9HJ
• United Kingdom

Use Royal Mail Recorded Delivery (Recorded Signed For) as a minimum. This costs around £3.35 on top of first-class postage and provides proof of delivery with a signature. Alternatively, Special Delivery Guaranteed by 1pm offers even stronger proof and faster delivery, though it costs more (around £7-£8).

Most importantly, keep your proof of posting receipt and tracking number. You can track your letter's progress online using the Royal Mail website. Once delivered, obtain and save your proof of delivery certificate, either as a digital download or screenshot. This document is your insurance policy against future disputes.

Step four: monitor your payment method

After sending your cancellation letter, keep a close eye on your bank account or credit card statements. Mark on your calendar when the next payment would normally be taken. If you sent your letter with adequate notice (at least 10 working days before your billing date), no charge should appear.

If you are charged after sending your cancellation, don't panic. First, contact My Score IQ with your proof of delivery and request an immediate refund. Give them a reasonable timeframe to respond, typically 7-10 working days. If they don't refund you or claim they never received your letter, you have strong grounds to request a chargeback from your bank or card provider.

Step five: request and retain confirmation

You should receive written confirmation of your cancellation from My Score IQ within 14 days of them receiving your letter. This might come via email or post. Keep this confirmation permanently in your records. Additionally, if you don't receive confirmation within three weeks, send a follow-up letter (again via Recorded Delivery) noting that you haven't received acknowledgement of your cancellation and requesting immediate confirmation.

Create a dedicated folder, either physical or digital, containing your original cancellation letter, proof of delivery, any correspondence from the company, and bank statements showing charges stopped. This comprehensive record protects you if the company later claims you're still subscribed or attempts to charge you again.

Handling complications and disputes

Despite following the correct process, you might encounter problems. Here's how to handle common complications that arise during cancellation.

If charges continue after cancellation

First, contact My Score IQ immediately with your proof of delivery and cancellation confirmation. Request a full refund of any charges taken after your cancellation date. Give them one opportunity to resolve the issue, with a deadline of 7 working days. Keep a record of this communication.

If they don't respond satisfactorily, contact your bank or card provider to initiate a chargeback. Provide them with all your documentation: proof of delivery, your cancellation letter, and evidence that charges continued after cancellation. Banks generally side with customers when clear evidence exists that services were cancelled but charges continued.

Claiming refunds for unclear terms

If you believe you were misled about the subscription terms when signing up, you may be entitled to a full refund. The Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008 prohibit misleading actions and omissions. If the trial period wasn't clearly explained, or if the monthly charge was hidden in small print, you have grounds to claim a refund.

Write to My Score IQ explaining why you believe the terms were unclear and requesting a full refund of all charges except the initial trial fee. Reference the relevant consumer protection regulations. If they refuse, you can escalate to the Financial Ombudsman Service or use chargebacks through your payment provider.

Using alternative dispute resolution

For disputes that can't be resolved directly with My Score IQ, several options exist. The Financial Ombudsman Service can investigate complaints about financial services, including credit monitoring subscriptions. Their service is free to consumers and they have the power to order companies to provide refunds and compensation.

Additionally, if you paid by credit card for any charge over £100, you may have protection under Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act. This makes your card provider jointly liable with the merchant, giving you another avenue to pursue refunds. For smaller amounts or debit card payments, chargeback procedures through your bank remain your best option.

Tips from former My Score IQ members

Having processed thousands of My Score IQ cancellations, certain patterns and insights emerge that can help you navigate the process more smoothly. Here's what former members wish they'd known.

Cancel during the trial period if possible

The single most common regret from My Score IQ members is not cancelling during the trial period. Many people check their credit score, then forget about the subscription until they notice charges on their bank statement months later. If you've signed up for a trial, set a reminder on your phone for three days before it ends. This gives you time to cancel with a comfortable buffer.

Keep in mind that you can still access your credit score through numerous free services after cancelling My Score IQ. ClearScore, Credit Karma, and Experian's free tier all provide regular credit score updates without any charges. There's genuinely no reason to continue paying for My Score IQ unless you specifically value their particular interface or features.

Document everything from the start

Several former members reported difficulties proving when they signed up or what terms they agreed to. From the moment you join any subscription service, save the confirmation email, screenshot the terms and conditions, and note the date. This documentation becomes invaluable if disputes arise later. Additionally, keep records of every payment taken, as this establishes your billing cycle and helps you time cancellation correctly.

Don't be pressured by retention tactics

Whilst this guide focuses on postal cancellation specifically to avoid retention pressure, it's worth noting that some companies may contact you after receiving your cancellation letter. They might offer discounted rates or free months to keep you subscribed. Remember that you have no obligation to accept these offers. If you've decided to cancel, stick to your decision.

Most importantly, never provide payment details again if you've cancelled. Some retention offers require entering new payment information, which essentially creates a new subscription. If you change your mind about cancelling, that's fine, but be aware you're entering a new agreement with potentially different terms.

Check your credit report after cancelling

Interestingly, some former members reported that My Score IQ itself appeared on their credit reports as a credit search or account. Whilst credit monitoring services shouldn't negatively impact your credit score, it's worth checking your credit report from all three major agencies (Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion) after cancelling to ensure everything is in order and no unexpected entries exist.

Consider blocking future payments

For complete peace of mind, some former members recommend asking your bank to block future payments to My Score IQ after cancelling. This is particularly useful if you're concerned the company might attempt to charge you despite your cancellation. Most banks can set up payment blocks for specific merchants, creating an additional layer of protection.

Additionally, if you used a virtual card number or a payment service like PayPal, you can revoke authorisation for My Score IQ to charge that payment method. This doesn't replace proper cancellation, but it provides backup protection against unauthorised charges.

Learn from the experience

Many former My Score IQ members report that the experience taught them valuable lessons about subscription services generally. Before signing up for any trial that requires payment details, ask yourself whether you truly need the service, set immediate reminders to cancel if you don't want to continue, and always read the terms carefully, particularly sections about billing and cancellation.

The subscription economy relies on people forgetting about services and continuing to pay indefinitely. Breaking this cycle requires active management of your subscriptions. Consider conducting a monthly audit of your bank statements to identify any subscriptions you no longer use or need. This simple practice can save hundreds of pounds annually.

Final advice for a clean break

The most successful cancellations share common characteristics: they're done well in advance of the next billing date, they use tracked postal services with proof of delivery, they include comprehensive account information, and they're followed up with monitoring of bank statements. Don't rush the process or cut corners on postage costs. The few pounds spent on Recorded Delivery could save you months of disputed charges.

Remember that cancelling a subscription is your legal right. Companies must respect this right and process cancellations within reasonable timeframes. If you encounter resistance or deliberate obstacles, don't hesitate to escalate through official channels. Consumer protection exists precisely for situations where companies make cancellation unnecessarily difficult.

By following this comprehensive guide, you'll ensure your My Score IQ subscription is cancelled properly, charges stop promptly, and you have robust evidence should any disputes arise. The postal method might require slightly more effort than clicking a button, but it provides unmatched security and peace of mind. Take control of your subscriptions, follow the steps outlined here, and you'll achieve a clean break from My Score IQ without ongoing hassles or unexpected charges appearing on your statements months later.