Ending your Hinge membership made easy

About Hinge

Hinge is a popular dating application designed to be deleted, as their marketing slogan suggests. Launched in 2012 and relaunched in 2016 with a completely redesigned format, Hinge has positioned itself as the relationship-focused alternative to swipe-based dating apps. The platform encourages users to showcase their personality through prompts and detailed profiles rather than relying solely on photographs.

Operating in the UK market since its early days, Hinge has built a substantial user base among singles looking for meaningful connections. The app is owned by Match Group, the same company behind Tinder, Match.com, and OkCupid. This means that when you subscribe to Hinge, you're entering into a contract with a major international corporation, which has specific implications for your consumer rights.

The service operates on a freemium model, offering basic functionality at no cost whilst premium features require a paid subscription. Many users start with the free version and later upgrade to access enhanced features such as unlimited likes, advanced preference filters, and the ability to see who has liked their profile. Understanding the subscription structure is essential before attempting to cancel, as different payment methods and subscription types have varying cancellation procedures.

Hinge's UK operations fall under consumer protection legislation, including the Consumer Rights Act 2015 and the Consumer Contracts Regulations 2013. These laws provide you with specific rights regarding subscription cancellations, cooling-off periods, and refunds. As a result, you have legal protections that companies must respect, regardless of what their terms and conditions might suggest.

Subscription plans and pricing

Hinge offers several subscription tiers, each providing different levels of access to premium features. The pricing structure can be complex, as costs vary depending on the subscription length you choose and occasional promotional offers. Therefore, it's important to understand exactly what you're paying for and the commitment period involved.

Current subscription options

The platform typically offers two main premium subscription levels: Hinge Preferred and HingeX. Hinge Preferred provides enhanced features for users seeking more control over their dating experience, whilst HingeX represents the premium tier with additional exclusive benefits. The pricing varies significantly based on the duration of commitment you select.

These prices represent typical rates, though promotional offers may occasionally reduce costs. The key point to remember is that longer subscription periods offer better value per month but represent a larger upfront commitment. This means that cancelling a six-month subscription after one month doesn't typically result in a refund for the unused portion unless you're within the cooling-off period.

Payment methods and renewal cycles

Hinge accepts payment through various channels, including direct payment via the app store (Apple App Store or Google Play Store) or directly through their website. The payment method you've chosen significantly affects how you should approach cancellation. In practice, most UK users subscribe through their mobile device's app store, which adds an additional layer to the cancellation process.

Subscriptions automatically renew unless you take action to cancel them before the renewal date. This automatic renewal is a standard practice across dating apps, but it's also a common source of frustration for consumers. Therefore, keeping track of your renewal date is essential to avoid unwanted charges. The renewal occurs at the end of your subscription period, whether that's monthly, quarterly, or bi-annually.

Cancellation terms and conditions

Understanding the cancellation terms is your first step toward protecting your consumer rights. Hinge's cancellation policy must comply with UK consumer protection law, which provides you with certain non-negotiable rights. As a result, even if the company's terms seem restrictive, you may have more options than initially apparent.

Cooling-off period and refund rights

Under the Consumer Contracts Regulations 2013, you have a 14-day cooling-off period for digital content purchases, including app subscriptions. This means you can cancel within 14 days of subscribing and receive a full refund, provided you haven't started using the premium features. However, by using the premium features immediately after subscribing, you may waive this right unless the company hasn't properly informed you of this consequence.

In practice, many users aren't aware of this cooling-off period or don't realize they need to exercise it before using premium features. The law requires companies to clearly inform you about this right and its limitations. If Hinge hasn't provided this information adequately, you may still be entitled to a refund even after using the service.

Notice periods and final billing

Beyond the cooling-off period, cancelling your Hinge subscription typically stops future renewals but doesn't refund the current subscription period. Therefore, if you cancel halfway through a monthly subscription, you'll retain access until the end of that month but won't be charged again. This is standard practice and generally considered fair under consumer law.

The key requirement is that you must cancel before your renewal date. Missing this deadline by even one day can result in being charged for an entire additional subscription period. As a result, timing your cancellation correctly is crucial. Many consumers prefer to cancel immediately after subscribing or renewing, ensuring they won't forget before the next billing cycle.

Common reasons people cancel Hinge

Understanding why others cancel can help you feel confident in your decision. Many users find that the premium features don't provide sufficient value compared to the free version. Others successfully meet someone and no longer need the service, which is actually the intended outcome according to Hinge's own marketing.

Financial considerations drive many cancellations, particularly when users don't realize how expensive dating app subscriptions can become over time. Some people cancel due to dissatisfaction with match quality, whilst others find the app's format doesn't suit their preferences. Additionally, privacy concerns and the desire to reduce screen time motivate some users to cancel their subscriptions and delete their accounts entirely.

How to cancel Hinge by post

Cancelling by post using Recorded Delivery represents the most reliable method for creating an indisputable record of your cancellation request. This approach provides you with legal proof that you've communicated your intention to cancel, which becomes essential if disputes arise about billing or cancellation dates.

Why postal cancellation is recommended

Digital cancellation methods, whilst convenient, can present problems. App-based cancellations sometimes fail due to technical glitches, and you may not receive confirmation. Online account portals can be confusing or deliberately difficult to navigate, a practice known as "dark patterns" designed to reduce cancellations. Email requests can be ignored or claimed to have never been received.

In contrast, Recorded Delivery provides tracking information and requires a signature upon receipt. This means you have independent proof from Royal Mail that your cancellation letter reached the company. Therefore, if Hinge later claims they never received your cancellation or continues charging you, you have concrete evidence to support your position with your bank or in any legal proceedings.

Consumer rights advocates consistently recommend postal cancellation for significant contracts because it places the burden of proof on the company rather than on you. This protection is particularly valuable when dealing with automatic renewals and subscription services, where billing disputes are unfortunately common.

Information to include in your cancellation letter

Your cancellation letter must contain specific information to be effective. Start with your full name exactly as it appears on your account and subscription. Include your email address associated with the Hinge account, as this is typically the primary identifier the company uses. Provide your account username if you know it, though the email address is usually sufficient.

Clearly state that you are cancelling your subscription and specify which subscription type you hold (Hinge Preferred or HingeX). Include the date you're writing the letter and explicitly state the date from which you want the cancellation to be effective. In practice, requesting immediate cancellation whilst acknowledging you'll have access until the end of your current billing period demonstrates you understand the terms.

Reference any relevant order numbers, transaction IDs, or subscription confirmation emails you've received. This information helps the company locate your account quickly. Request written confirmation of your cancellation, specifying that you want confirmation of the cancellation date and confirmation that no further payments will be taken.

Where to send your cancellation letter

Hinge's parent company, Match Group, handles subscription matters for UK customers. You must send your cancellation letter to the correct address to ensure it reaches the appropriate department. The registered office for Match Group's UK operations is the address you should use for all formal correspondence regarding cancellations.

• Match Group
• MATCH
• C/O Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom (UK) LLP
• 22 Bishopsgate
• London
• EC2N 4BQ
• United Kingdom

Always send your cancellation letter via Royal Mail Recorded Delivery. This service costs approximately £3.35 and provides tracking information plus proof of delivery. Keep your proof of postage receipt and note the tracking number. You can track your letter's progress through the Royal Mail website, and you'll receive confirmation once it's been delivered and signed for.

Using Postclic for cancellation letters

Whilst you can certainly write and post your cancellation letter yourself, services like Postclic streamline this process considerably. Postclic specializes in sending formal letters with tracked delivery, removing the need to find the correct address, format your letter professionally, or visit the post office.

The service works digitally: you provide your cancellation details through their platform, and they handle the printing, envelope preparation, and posting via Recorded Delivery. This means you receive the same legal protection as posting the letter yourself, but without the administrative burden. You'll receive digital proof of postage and delivery confirmation, which you can store indefinitely without worrying about losing physical receipts.

For busy professionals or those unfamiliar with formal letter writing, Postclic offers peace of mind. The service ensures your letter includes all necessary information, is professionally formatted, and reaches the correct address. This can be particularly valuable if you're concerned about getting the details right or if you've had previous difficulties with cancellations.

Timeline and what to expect

Royal Mail Recorded Delivery typically takes one to two working days for delivery within the UK. Therefore, your letter should reach Match Group's offices within this timeframe. Once received, the company should process your cancellation within a reasonable period, typically within five to ten working days.

You should receive written confirmation of your cancellation, either by email or post. If you don't receive confirmation within two weeks of the delivery date shown on your tracking information, follow up with another letter referencing your original cancellation request and including the tracking number as evidence.

Check your bank statements carefully after your cancellation to ensure no further payments are taken. If you're charged after your cancellation should have taken effect, contact your bank immediately to dispute the transaction. Provide them with your proof of postage and delivery as evidence that you cancelled in time.

Customer reviews and tips

Learning from others' experiences can help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure your cancellation goes smoothly. Consumer feedback about Hinge cancellations reveals both positive experiences and challenges that you should be aware of.

Common experiences with cancellation

Many users report that cancelling through app stores (Apple or Google) is straightforward when the subscription was purchased through those platforms. However, confusion often arises when users can't remember where they originally subscribed or when they've switched devices since subscribing. This highlights the importance of keeping records of your subscription purchase.

Some customers have experienced continued billing after attempting to cancel through the app, discovering too late that they cancelled their app access but not their subscription. This distinction is crucial: deleting the app from your phone doesn't cancel your subscription. Similarly, deleting your Hinge account doesn't automatically cancel an active subscription.

Positive reviews often come from users who cancelled well in advance of their renewal date and kept documentation of their cancellation. Those who encountered problems typically either missed their cancellation deadline or didn't keep proof of their cancellation request. Therefore, acting promptly and maintaining records are the most consistent factors in successful cancellations.

Expert tips for smooth cancellation

Set a reminder on your phone or calendar for at least one week before your subscription renewal date. This buffer gives you time to send your cancellation letter and ensure it's received before you're charged again. In practice, many consumers forget about their subscriptions until they see an unexpected charge on their bank statement.

Take screenshots of your subscription details, including the subscription type, renewal date, and payment amount. These screenshots serve as additional evidence if disputes arise. Similarly, screenshot any confirmation emails you receive when you originally subscribed, as these contain important details about your subscription terms.

If you subscribed through an app store, check your app store subscription settings even if you plan to cancel by post. Understanding where your subscription is managed helps you ensure you're directing your cancellation to the right place. Some users maintain subscriptions through multiple channels without realizing it, leading to confusion about billing.

Protecting yourself from unwanted charges

Consider using a dedicated email address for subscription services. This approach helps you track all subscription-related correspondence in one place and makes it easier to monitor renewal notices. Many people miss renewal warnings because they're buried among hundreds of other emails in their primary inbox.

If you're concerned about being charged after cancellation, contact your bank about setting up a block on payments to Match Group or Hinge. Most banks allow you to block specific merchants, though this should be a last resort after you've properly cancelled. This protection can prevent unauthorized charges whilst you're waiting for cancellation confirmation.

Keep all documentation related to your subscription and cancellation for at least 12 months. This includes the original subscription confirmation, any correspondence with Hinge or Match Group, proof of postage for your cancellation letter, and bank statements showing subscription payments. Should you need to dispute a charge or prove when you cancelled, this documentation becomes invaluable.

What to do if problems arise

If Hinge continues to charge you after your cancellation should have taken effect, act immediately. Contact your bank to dispute the transaction, providing your proof of postage and delivery. Under the Direct Debit Guarantee or chargeback rights (for card payments), your bank should refund unauthorized payments whilst they investigate.

Submit a formal complaint to Match Group in writing, again using Recorded Delivery. Reference your original cancellation letter, include the tracking information, and clearly state that you're formally complaining about continued billing despite proper cancellation. Request a full refund of any charges taken after your cancellation date.

If the company doesn't resolve your complaint satisfactorily within eight weeks, you can escalate to the appropriate alternative dispute resolution scheme. For subscription services, this might be through small claims court for amounts up to £10,000, or you might consider contacting Trading Standards if you believe the company is engaging in unfair commercial practices.

Remember that as a UK consumer, you have strong legal protections. Companies cannot simply ignore proper cancellation requests or continue charging you indefinitely. Your rights under the Consumer Rights Act 2015 and related legislation provide you with recourse if businesses fail to honor legitimate cancellations. Therefore, whilst cancellation disputes can be frustrating, persistence and proper documentation typically result in favorable outcomes for consumers who've followed the correct procedures.