Ending your Scruff membership made easy

About Scruff

Scruff is a location-based dating and social networking application designed primarily for gay, bisexual, transgender and queer men. Launched in 2010, it has grown to become one of the most popular LGBTQ+ dating platforms worldwide, with millions of users across more than 180 countries. The app positions itself as a more inclusive alternative to other dating platforms, welcoming men of all body types, ages and backgrounds.

The platform offers various features beyond simple profile browsing and messaging. Users can share multiple photos, engage in group chats, plan events and meetups, and utilise travel features to connect with people in destinations they're visiting. Scruff also includes interest-based communities and verification badges to help users find compatible matches and maintain a safer environment.

In the UK, Scruff operates under a freemium model where basic features are available without charge, but premium subscriptions unlock additional functionality. The service is managed by Perry Street Software, Inc., a company based in the United States that also operates other dating platforms. For UK users, this international structure has important implications when it comes to cancelling subscriptions and exercising consumer rights.

Most importantly, understanding how Scruff operates as a business helps explain why postal cancellation remains the most reliable method for UK subscribers. Unlike UK-based services with straightforward online cancellation processes, international app-based subscriptions can present challenges when users attempt to terminate their memberships through digital channels alone.

Plans, features and pricing

Scruff offers several subscription tiers, each providing different levels of access to premium features. The pricing structure is designed to encourage longer-term commitments through discounted rates for extended subscription periods.

Free membership features

The basic Scruff account includes core functionality such as creating a profile with limited photos, browsing other profiles in your area, sending a restricted number of messages daily, and accessing basic search filters. Free users can also join public events and view who has viewed their profile, though with limitations on how many profiles they can see.

Scruff Pro subscription

The Pro tier removes most restrictions found in the free version. Subscribers gain unlimited messaging, advanced search filters including height, weight, ethnicity and relationship status, the ability to view unlimited profile visitors, and access to the "disappearing" photo feature. Pro members can also browse in stealth mode, preventing others from seeing when they've viewed profiles.

Scruff Unlimited subscription

The highest tier includes everything in Pro plus additional premium features. Unlimited subscribers can save and organise an unlimited number of profiles, access priority customer support, and receive featured placement in search results to increase profile visibility. This tier also includes advanced privacy controls and the ability to unsend messages.

Current UK pricing structure

Keep in mind that pricing can vary depending on whether you subscribe through the iOS App Store, Google Play Store, or directly through Scruff's website. Additionally, promotional offers occasionally reduce these rates for new subscribers or those upgrading from free accounts.

The subscription automatically renews unless cancelled before the renewal date. This auto-renewal feature is where many users encounter difficulties, as simply deleting the app from your phone does not cancel your subscription—a common mistake that results in continued billing.

Terms of service and cancellation policy

Understanding Scruff's terms of service is essential before attempting to cancel your subscription. The company's policies reflect both US business practices and requirements under UK consumer protection law.

Automatic renewal terms

Scruff subscriptions operate on an automatic renewal basis. When you initially subscribe, you're agreeing to recurring charges at the end of each billing period unless you actively cancel. The renewal charge occurs 24 hours before the current period ends, which means you need to cancel at least one full day before your renewal date to avoid being charged for another period.

This timing is crucial and catches many users off guard. If your subscription renews on the 15th of each month, you must ensure your cancellation is processed by the 14th at the latest. Waiting until the actual renewal date is too late—the charge will already have been initiated.

Refund policy

Scruff's standard policy states that subscription fees are non-refundable. However, UK consumer law provides stronger protections than US policy. Under the Consumer Rights Act 2015 and the Consumer Contracts Regulations 2013, UK subscribers may be entitled to refunds in certain circumstances, particularly if they cancel within 14 days of purchase or if the service fails to meet described standards.

Most importantly, documenting your cancellation request becomes vital if you need to dispute charges or request a refund. This is precisely why postal cancellation with proof of delivery offers superior protection compared to other methods.

Notice period requirements

Whilst Scruff doesn't explicitly require a lengthy notice period beyond the 24-hour renewal window, providing written notice via post gives you a clear paper trail. UK consumer protection guidance recommends giving reasonable notice for subscription cancellations, typically interpreted as at least 7-14 days before the next billing date.

Data retention after cancellation

When you cancel your subscription, your account typically reverts to a free membership rather than being deleted entirely. Your profile remains visible and your messages stay accessible, but premium features become unavailable. If you want to completely delete your account and personal data, you must make a separate request under GDPR provisions, which also should be done in writing.

Cancelling by post—the complete guide

Postal cancellation is the most reliable method for terminating your Scruff subscription, particularly for UK users dealing with an international service provider. Whilst app-based and online cancellation methods exist, they depend entirely on the platform's technical systems functioning correctly and your request being properly processed.

Why postal cancellation is most reliable

First, postal cancellation creates an independent record of your cancellation request that exists outside the company's digital systems. When you send a letter via Royal Mail Recorded Delivery, you receive proof that your cancellation notice was delivered on a specific date. This evidence is invaluable if disputes arise about whether you cancelled in time or if the company claims they never received your request.

Additionally, written cancellation provides clarity and formality that digital methods often lack. Your letter states exactly what you want, when you want it, and creates a permanent record. There's no confusion about whether you clicked the right button, whether an email went to spam, or whether a customer service representative properly logged your request.

From my experience processing thousands of cancellations, postal methods consistently result in fewer billing disputes and faster resolution when problems do occur. The tracking number and delivery confirmation give you leverage that digital cancellation attempts simply cannot match.

Preparing your cancellation letter

Your cancellation letter needs to include several essential elements. Start with your full name exactly as it appears on your Scruff account and subscription. Include your email address associated with the account, as this is typically the primary identifier the company uses.

Next, clearly state your intention to cancel your Scruff subscription. Use unambiguous language such as "I am writing to cancel my Scruff Pro subscription effective immediately" or "Please cancel my Scruff Unlimited subscription and do not charge my payment method for any future billing periods."

Include your account username or member ID if you know it, along with the approximate date you subscribed and your current billing cycle. Mention the payment method you used (last four digits of your card or PayPal email) to help them locate your account in their system.

Most importantly, specify that you require written confirmation of your cancellation sent to your postal address. Provide this address clearly. Also state that you expect no further charges to be applied to your payment method after the current billing period ends.

Date your letter and sign it. Keep a photocopy or scan of the signed letter for your records before posting. This copy becomes crucial evidence if you need to dispute charges with your bank or credit card company later.

Where to send your cancellation letter

Scruff is operated by Perry Street Software, Inc. For UK subscription cancellations, you should send your letter to their registered business address. Here is the complete postal address:

• Perry Street Software, Inc.
• 1123 Broadway
• Suite 807
• New York, NY 10010
• United States

Keep in mind that you're sending your cancellation internationally, which affects both delivery time and the method you should use. Standard international post can take 5-10 working days, so factor this into your timing if you're trying to cancel before a specific renewal date.

Using Royal Mail Recorded Delivery

For cancellation letters, always use Royal Mail Signed For or International Tracked services. Standard Signed For won't work for international mail, so you'll need International Tracked and Signed, which costs approximately £7.85 for letters to the USA.

This service provides a tracking number that you can monitor online through Royal Mail's website. You'll see when the letter leaves the UK, when it arrives in the United States, and when it's delivered to the recipient. Crucially, you receive confirmation of delivery, which proves your cancellation notice reached the company.

When posting your letter, ask the Post Office counter staff for a receipt showing your tracking number. Keep this receipt safe—it's your proof of posting. Photograph it or store it securely, as thermal paper receipts can fade over time.

Using a postal service like Postclic

Alternatively, services like Postclic streamline the entire process by handling the physical posting for you. You upload your cancellation details through their platform, and they print, envelope and send your letter via tracked delivery. The service maintains digital records of your letter and provides tracking information, all accessible through your online account.

This approach saves you a trip to the Post Office and ensures your letter is formatted professionally. Additionally, Postclic's system keeps permanent digital records of what you sent and when, which can be particularly useful if you need to reference your cancellation months or years later. The service typically costs less than £5 including tracked delivery, making it cost-effective compared to handling international tracked post yourself.

Timing your cancellation

Work backwards from your next billing date to determine when you need to post your letter. If your subscription renews on the 20th of next month and you're posting on the 1st, you have adequate time even accounting for international delivery delays.

However, if your renewal date is approaching within the next two weeks, postal cancellation alone might not be sufficient. In these cases, you should also cancel through your app store (iOS App Store or Google Play Store) as a backup measure whilst still sending the postal cancellation for documentation purposes.

Remember that cancelling through the app store prevents future charges processed through that platform, but if you subscribed directly through Scruff's website, app store cancellation won't affect those subscriptions. This is why the postal method remains important—it covers all subscription types regardless of payment channel.

Following up on your cancellation

Once your tracked letter shows as delivered, wait 3-5 business days, then check whether you've received confirmation. If you haven't heard back within a week of confirmed delivery, send a follow-up email referencing your postal cancellation, including the date sent and tracking number.

Monitor your payment method for any charges after your cancellation should have taken effect. If you're charged despite cancelling, immediately contact your bank or credit card provider to dispute the charge. Provide them with your proof of posting and delivery confirmation.

Tips from former members

Common reasons people cancel Scruff

Understanding why others cancel can help you evaluate your own subscription and make informed decisions. The most frequently cited reason is finding a relationship—once users meet someone and enter a committed relationship, they no longer need the dating app. Many members report cancelling after achieving what they initially sought from the platform.

Cost concerns drive many cancellations, particularly when users realise they're not actively using the premium features they're paying for. Some members subscribe during periods when they're actively dating, then cancel during relationship breaks or when focusing on other life priorities. The subscription cost can feel unjustified when the app sits unused on your phone.

Others cancel due to dissatisfaction with match quality or the user experience. Some find that their local area has limited active users, making the premium features less valuable. Technical issues, concerns about privacy, or simply preferring competitor platforms also motivate cancellations.

Additionally, some users cancel to take advantage of promotional offers for new or returning subscribers. By cancelling and resubscribing after a gap, they can sometimes access discounted rates that aren't available to continuous subscribers.

Mistakes to avoid when cancelling

The single biggest mistake is assuming that deleting the app cancels your subscription. This never works—your subscription is tied to your payment method and account, not to whether the app is installed on your device. Deleting the app whilst maintaining an active subscription guarantees you'll continue being charged for a service you can't even access.

Another common error is cancelling on the renewal date itself. Remember, the charge processes 24 hours before the stated renewal date, so cancelling on that date means you're already locked in for another billing period. Always cancel at least 48 hours before renewal to ensure processing time.

Many users forget to verify which platform processes their subscription. If you subscribed through the iOS App Store, you must cancel through Apple's subscription management system. Google Play subscriptions require cancellation through Google's system. Direct website subscriptions need cancellation through Scruff directly. Cancelling in the wrong place has no effect on your actual subscription.

Keep in mind that some users cancel but forget to request account deletion, leaving their profile active and visible to other users. If privacy is a concern, ensure you specifically request full account deletion in addition to subscription cancellation.

Protecting yourself from billing issues

Before cancelling, take screenshots of your subscription details showing your current plan, renewal date, and billing amount. These screenshots prove what you were subscribed to and when charges were expected. If disputes arise, this documentation supports your case.

Check your bank or credit card statements to confirm exactly how Scruff charges appear. They might be listed under "Perry Street Software," "Scruff," or another variation. Knowing the exact billing descriptor helps you spot charges and verify when cancellation takes effect.

Set a calendar reminder for three days after your subscription should have ended. On that date, verify that no new charge has appeared on your payment method. If a charge does appear, you can dispute it immediately whilst the transaction is still recent.

Most importantly, if you encounter any billing issues after cancelling, act quickly. Contact your bank or credit card provider within 60 days of the disputed charge to initiate a chargeback. Provide your proof of cancellation—the tracked delivery confirmation and copy of your cancellation letter.

Alternative approaches before cancelling

Before committing to cancellation, consider whether downgrading to the free tier meets your needs. The free version maintains your profile and connections whilst eliminating subscription costs. This option works well if you want to keep your account available but don't need premium features.

Some users benefit from pausing their search rather than cancelling entirely. You can hide your profile from search results without cancelling your subscription, effectively taking a break whilst maintaining your premium features for when you're ready to return. However, this approach only makes financial sense if you're certain you'll resume active use within your current billing period.

Additionally, check whether Scruff offers any retention discounts when you attempt to cancel. Some users report receiving offers for reduced subscription rates when the company detects cancellation attempts. Whilst you shouldn't rely on this, it's worth being aware that better pricing might become available.

What happens after cancellation

After your subscription cancels, you retain access to premium features until the end of your current billing period. If you cancelled on the 5th but your subscription runs through the 20th, you can use Pro or Unlimited features until the 20th. The subscription simply won't renew for another period.

Once the billing period ends, your account automatically converts to a free membership. Your profile remains active, your message history stays intact, and your photos remain visible. However, you lose access to unlimited messaging, advanced filters, and other premium features. You can still use the app with the limitations of a free account.

Your account information remains stored unless you specifically request deletion. Under GDPR, you have the right to request complete deletion of your personal data. This requires a separate written request, which should also be sent via tracked post to ensure proper documentation.

Keep your cancellation records for at least 12 months after cancelling. Occasionally, billing errors occur months later, and having proof of cancellation readily available resolves these issues quickly. Store your tracking number, delivery confirmation, and letter copy in a safe place where you can easily retrieve them if needed.