Cancel Radio Times: The Right Way

How to cancel Radio Times in canada and protect your subscription rights

Why canadians cancel Radio Times and what you should know first

Radio Times is a UK-based media brand offering digital magazine subscriptions, a mobile app called "Radio Times - What to Watch," and an online shop for merchandise and print editions. In Canada, you access digital content through Pocketmags, the Apple App Store, or Google Play, while print magazines and products ship through the Radio Times Shop online. Many Canadian subscribers cancel because their viewing habits shift, they've switched to streaming platforms, or they want to reduce monthly expenses. Whatever your reason, you have clear legal rights to cancel without penalty-and Tocancel is here to walk you through every step.

Common reasons canadians cancel Radio Times

You might be cancelling because you no longer watch traditional broadcast television, you've found more affordable alternatives, or the magazine's content no longer matches your interests. Some subscribers discover that their app-based subscription auto-renews without a clear reminder, or they simply forget they're paying and want to stop. Your decision to cancel is valid, and you deserve a straightforward process. Tocancel ensures you understand your rights and take control of your subscription.

Your legal rights under canadian consumer protection law

Under Canada's Competition Act and provincial consumer protection statutes (such as Ontario's Consumer Protection Act), you have the right to cancel a subscription and claim a refund if you act within defined timeframes. For digital subscriptions purchased through Apple or Google, you have 14 calendar days from your first payment to request a full refund directly through those platforms. For print magazines or physical items ordered through the Radio Times Shop, you have 14 days from the date of delivery to return them and receive your money back. If Radio Times or a third-party platform refuses your legitimate cancellation or refund request, you can escalate to your provincial consumer protection authority or dispute the charge through your credit card company. Your legal position is simple: you can cancel at any time, and you can demand a refund if the company breaches its cancellation obligations.

Radio Times subscription plans and canadian pricing

Understanding what you pay and how billing works is the first step to a clean cancellation.

Is cancellation the right choice for you?

Before you cancel, consider whether a downgrade-such as switching from the annual plan to a monthly subscription-might work instead. Some subscribers prefer to pause their subscription temporarily if Radio Times offers that option. However, if you've decided to leave entirely, Tocancel will help you execute the cancellation cleanly and recover any refunds you're owed. The key is to act before your next billing date to avoid paying for a renewal you didn't want.

How to cancel Radio Times on iOS

If you subscribed to the Radio Times app or digital magazine through Apple, you manage and cancel your subscription in your Apple Account settings, not inside the app itself.

Step-by-step cancellation on iPhone or iPad

1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad.
   • Look for the grey gear icon on your home screen.
2. Tap your name and profile picture at the top of the Settings menu.
   • This opens your Apple Account dashboard.
3. Select Subscriptions (scroll down if you don't see it immediately).
   • This shows all active and paused subscriptions tied to your Apple ID.
4. Find and tap "Radio Times - What to Watch" in the list.
   • If you subscribed to the digital magazine via Apple, it will appear as a separate subscription.
5. Tap Cancel Subscription at the bottom of the screen.
   • Apple will ask you to confirm; you may see options to pause or downgrade first.
6. Confirm your cancellation when prompted.
   • You will receive a confirmation email from Apple within minutes.

Timing and refund eligibility on iOS

You must cancel at least 24 hours before your next billing date to stop the next charge. If you cancel after billing occurs but within 14 days of your first payment or a renewal, Apple will refund the most recent charge. To check your billing date, open the subscription details screen in Settings and look for "Next Billing Date" or "Renewal Date." If you see a charge you believe is unauthorised, contact Apple Support within 60 days and request a refund; Apple will investigate and refund you if the charge was improper.

How to cancel Radio Times on android

Android users who subscribed through Google Play manage their cancellation through the Google Play Store app or website.

Step-by-step cancellation on android devices

1. Open the Google Play Store app on your Android phone or tablet.
   • Look for the coloured triangle icon in your apps list.
2. Tap your profile icon in the top right corner.
   • This is usually a circle with your profile picture or initial.
3. Select Manage subscriptions.
   • You'll see a complete list of all active subscriptions on your Google account.
4. Tap "Radio Times - What to Watch" (or the Radio Times digital magazine if applicable).
   • This opens the subscription details page.
5. Tap Cancel subscription.
   • Google may ask you why you're cancelling; this is optional feedback.
6. Confirm your cancellation by tapping the final confirmation button.
   • You'll receive a confirmation email from Google Play.

Timing and refund eligibility on android

You must cancel before your next automatic renewal date to avoid the next charge. Like Apple, Google Play offers a 14-day refund window from your initial subscription purchase or your most recent renewal. If you cancel after the 14-day window, you will not receive a refund, but your subscription will stop at the next renewal date. Check your subscription details for the exact "Renewal date" before you cancel to plan accordingly.

How to cancel Radio Times on the web and through pocketmags

If you subscribed to the Radio Times digital magazine directly through the Pocketmags website or the Radio Times Shop online, your cancellation process is different from app-based subscriptions.

Cancellation through pocketmags

1. Visit the Pocketmags website and log into your account.
   • Use the email and password you registered with.
2. Navigate to your Account Settings or Profile page.
   • Look for a menu option labelled "My Subscriptions" or "Manage Account."
3. Find your Radio Times subscription in the active subscriptions list.
   • This section shows all current and past purchases.
4. Click Cancel subscription or Manage subscription next to Radio Times.
   • Pocketmags will confirm your cancellation and your access end date.
5. Confirm the cancellation and save your changes.
   • You will receive a confirmation email.

Cancellation through the Radio Times shop

If you ordered print magazines or merchandise directly from the Radio Times Shop website, cancellation depends on whether your order is part of a recurring subscription or a one-time purchase. One-time purchases cannot be cancelled once placed, but you can return items within 14 days for a refund. For recurring quarterly or annual subscriptions, log into your Radio Times Shop account, navigate to My Orders or Subscriptions, and select Cancel next to your active subscription. Contact the Radio Times Shop directly at their support email if you cannot locate the cancellation option online; Tocancel recommends using registered mail or email confirmation so you have proof of your cancellation request.

What to do after you cancel Radio Times

Cancellation doesn't end your obligations-follow these steps to ensure you're fully disengaged and protected.

Verify your cancellation was processed

After you complete the cancellation steps, save all confirmation emails from Apple, Google, Pocketmags, or the Radio Times Shop. Log back into your account 48 hours later to confirm your subscription no longer appears in the active list. If you still see Radio Times listed as active, or if you receive an unexpected charge after cancellation, contact the platform immediately (Apple Support, Google Play Support, Pocketmags customer service) and request a manual cancellation or refund. Tocancel advises keeping screenshots of your cancelled subscription status as evidence if a dispute arises later.

Check your next billing date

Visit your subscription details one final time before your next scheduled renewal date. If your cancellation was successful, you should see no upcoming charge. If a charge appears, dispute it immediately through your payment provider-credit card company, PayPal, or bank-and reference your cancellation confirmation email. Most payment processors allow you to dispute unauthorised charges within 60 to 120 days.

Uninstall the Radio Times app (optional)

You can keep the Radio Times app on your device if you prefer, but uninstalling it removes the temptation to accidentally re-subscribe and clears storage space. To uninstall, press and hold the Radio Times app icon, select Remove App, and confirm deletion. This step is optional but recommended for a clean break.

Refund eligibility and how to claim your money back

Your right to a refund depends on when you cancel and which platform you used.

14-day refund window (Apple, google, and pocketmags)

If you cancel within 14 calendar days of your first subscription charge or your most recent renewal, you are entitled to a full refund. This is a consumer protection standard across Canada and most digital platforms. To claim your refund on Apple or Google, go back to your subscription details and look for a Refund or Report a Problem option. If neither is available, contact Apple Support or Google Play Support directly and explain that you cancelled within the 14-day window. Provide your subscription start date and your order number (found in confirmation emails). Tocancel strongly recommends keeping these emails as proof of your purchase date and cancellation date. Pocketmags offers the same 14-day refund window; if you don't see a refund option in your account, email their customer service team with your subscription proof and request a refund.

Refunds after 14 days

If you cancel more than 14 days after your subscription started or renewed, you are generally not entitled to a refund for the current billing period. However, you can dispute charges that violate the terms of service-for example, if Radio Times changed its service significantly or if your subscription was renewed without clear consent. In those cases, file a dispute through your credit card company or bank, which will investigate and potentially reverse the charge. Tocancel advises documenting any service changes or misleading marketing that prompted your cancellation; these details strengthen your dispute case.

Print magazine and merchandise returns

For physical items ordered through the Radio Times Shop, you have 14 days from delivery to return them for a refund. Pack the items securely, include your order number, and send them via registered mail to the Radio Times Shop's returns address (see the final section for contact details). Keep your tracking number and proof of postage; this is your evidence that you initiated the return within the 14-day window. Refunds typically process within 10 to 15 business days of the shop receiving your return.

Common cancellation mistakes to avoid

Cancelling a subscription can feel straightforward, but many subscribers stumble on avoidable pitfalls that delay their refunds or complicate disputes.

Mistake one: cancelling inside the app instead of in account settings

A frequent error is looking for a cancel option inside the Radio Times app itself. The app does not contain a built-in cancellation feature; instead, you must cancel through your Apple Account, Google Play account, or the Pocketmags website. If you cancel inside the app (by deleting it or signing out), your subscription remains active and you will be charged at your next renewal. Tocancel reminds readers that app-based subscriptions live in your payment account, not in the app; always cancel where you paid.

Mistake two: missing the 24-hour buffer before renewal

Both Apple and Google require you to cancel at least 24 hours before your next billing date. If you cancel 12 hours before renewal, your subscription may still renew, and you'll need to request a refund afterward. Check your renewal date in Settings (iPhone) or Google Play (Android) at least two days before it arrives. Set a phone reminder if you're concerned about the timing.

Mistake three: not verifying cancellation before the next renewal

Many subscribers cancel but fail to confirm the cancellation was successful. A week later, they're charged again and left scrambling to dispute the fee. Always log back into your account 48 hours after cancellation to verify Radio Times no longer appears in your active subscriptions. This takes 30 seconds and prevents headaches.

Mistake four: deleting your account instead of cancelling your subscription

Some subscribers delete their entire Radio Times account, thinking this cancels their subscription. Account deletion and subscription cancellation are separate actions. You can cancel your subscription while keeping your account, or delete your account once you've confirmed your subscription is already cancelled. Deleting your account does not automatically stop auto-renewal, so always cancel the subscription first.

Understanding Radio Times' cancellation policies and your rights

Radio Times' cancellation process is managed through the platforms where you subscribed-Apple, Google, or Pocketmags-rather than directly by Radio Times. This means your cancellation rights fall under Apple's, Google's, or Pocketmags' terms of service, as well as Canadian consumer law.

Auto-renewal rules in canada

Under the Competition Act and provincial consumer protection laws, companies must obtain your clear, affirmative consent before starting an auto-renewal subscription. Radio Times must also provide you with a reminder (usually email) before your next charge, and they must offer a simple cancellation mechanism. If Radio Times or its payment platforms fail to meet these requirements, you can file a complaint with the Competition Bureau of Canada or your provincial consumer protection authority. Your legal position is strong: you did not agree to auto-renewal without knowing the price and billing frequency, and you have the right to cancel without penalty.

What to do if Radio Times refuses to cancel or refund

If you follow the cancellation steps above and Radio Times or the payment platform ignores your cancellation request or refuses a legitimate refund, escalate immediately. First, contact customer support for the platform (Apple Support, Google Play Support, or Pocketmags support) and explain the issue. If they do not resolve it within 10 business days, file a chargeback or dispute with your credit card company or bank. Provide your confirmation emails and cancellation screenshots as evidence. If the dispute is denied, file a complaint with your provincial consumer protection authority or the Competition Bureau. Tocancel has helped thousands of consumers recover unfair charges through these escalation paths, and you have every right to pursue yours.

Radio Times versus alternative news and entertainment subscriptions

Before you finalize your cancellation, consider whether a comparable service might serve you better.

Why Radio Times subscribers downgrade rather than cancel entirely

If you value Radio Times' TV guide and reviews but want to reduce spending, consider downgrading to the monthly plan ($4.49) rather than cancelling entirely. This keeps you connected to the content you value while cutting costs compared to the annual plan ($79.99). Alternatively, if you prefer Canadian news and entertainment, Maclean's or The Globe and Mail may offer similar content at comparable prices. Tocancel's role is to empower you to make the choice that works best for your budget and habits-whether that's cancelling completely or finding a middle ground.

Your cancellation checklist and final steps

Use this checklist to ensure you complete your cancellation correctly and retain all necessary documentation.

• Identify which platform you subscribed through (Apple App Store, Google Play, Pocketmags, or Radio Times Shop).
• Log into your account on that platform and navigate to your subscriptions or account settings.
• Check your next renewal or billing date and set a reminder to cancel at least 48 hours before.
• Select Cancel subscription and confirm your choice.
• Save all confirmation emails and take screenshots of your cancelled subscription status.
• Log back in 48 hours later to verify Radio Times no longer appears in your active subscriptions.
• If you're eligible for a 14-day refund, initiate it immediately through your payment platform.
• If you're not refunded within 10 business days, contact the platform's support team or file a chargeback.
• For print returns, pack items securely, include your order number, and send via registered mail with proof of postage.
• Delete the Radio Times app from your device if you wish (optional but recommended).

Contact Radio Times and filing a complaint if cancellation fails

If you cannot cancel through the standard methods above or if Radio Times refuses your refund request, use these contact options to escalate your case directly.

Radio Times customer support and cancellation address

Radio Times is based in the United Kingdom and does not maintain a dedicated Canadian customer service team. However, you can reach their general support inbox at the following address for cancellation disputes:

Radio Times (Shop and Subscriptions)
Email: [email protected]
Registered mail address: Radio Times, BBC Worldwide Limited, 80 Wood Lane, London W12 0TT, United Kingdom

When writing to Radio Times by registered mail (raccomandata A/R format in Italian contexts, or registered mail with return receipt in Canada), include your subscription confirmation email, your cancellation request date, your full name, and your account email. Send it via Canada Post Registered Mail with proof of delivery. This creates a legal record if you later need to file a chargeback or complaint with a regulatory authority.

Escalating to canadian consumer protection authorities

If Radio Times or the payment platform ignores your cancellation or refund request, file a complaint with:

• Competition Bureau of Canada: www.canada.ca/competition - file a complaint if Radio Times engaged in deceptive marketing or violated auto-renewal rules.
• Your provincial consumer protection authority: Each province maintains a consumer protection office. For example, Ontario has the Ministry of Government and Consumer Services. Search "[Your Province] consumer protection" online to locate the correct office.
• Your financial institution or credit card company: File a chargeback or dispute if an unauthorized charge appears on your account.

Tocancel advises keeping all correspondence, confirmation emails, and screenshots throughout this process. These documents are your evidence in any dispute resolution or formal complaint.

Final thoughts: take control of your subscription today

Cancelling Radio Times is a straightforward process once you know where to go and what to watch for. You have clear legal rights under Canadian consumer protection law to cancel without penalty, and you can claim a refund within 14 days of your subscription start or renewal date. Whether you're cancelling because your interests have shifted, you've found a more affordable alternative, or you simply want to reduce recurring expenses, Tocancel is here to guide you through every step. Use the platform-specific instructions above, keep your confirmation emails, and verify your cancellation status before your next renewal date. If Radio Times or its payment platforms resist, escalate to the Competition Bureau or your provincial consumer protection authority-and remember, you have the right to file a chargeback if all else fails. Tocancel has helped thousands of consumers cancel unwanted subscriptions cleanly and recover unfair charges. Your subscription is your choice, and you deserve a cancellation process that respects your rights.