Cancel Backblaze: The Right Way to Protect Your Data

How to cancel Backblaze in new zealand and protect your data

What is Backblaze and why you might cancel

Backblaze is a cloud backup service that stores your computer files online, with a separate B2 Cloud Storage option for developers and businesses. If you've decided to leave Backblaze, you're in the right place. Tocancel helps thousands of New Zealand consumers understand exactly what happens when you cancel, what you're entitled to keep or recover, and how to avoid the common pitfalls that cost people time and money.

How Backblaze works

Backblaze's Personal Online Backup lets you back up unlimited files from your computer to their cloud servers. Once you subscribe, the service runs in the background, syncing new and changed files continuously. B2 Cloud Storage is a separate offering that targets developers and organisations needing pay-as-you-go object storage for applications and archives. This means you can use one service, both, or neither after cancellation.

Common reasons to cancel

You might cancel because you've switched to a different backup service, no longer need cloud storage, want to reduce monthly expenses, or prefer managing backups locally. Whatever your reason, Tocancel believes you deserve a straightforward cancellation process. We'll walk you through every step so you can leave with confidence and clarity about your data.

Your consumer rights in new zealand

Before you cancel, understand what protections you have under New Zealand law. These rights give you leverage if Backblaze fails to deliver what was promised.

Consumer guarantees act protections

Under the Consumer Guarantees Act 1993, Backblaze must provide a service that is of acceptable quality, fit for purpose, and safe. If the service fails to deliver what was promised-for example, if your backups aren't accessible when you need them-you have the right to seek remedies beyond Backblaze's standard refund policy. These remedies include repair, replacement, or refund, depending on the circumstances. Your legal position is strong: you do not have to accept a faulty service simply because you signed up for it.

If Backblaze's cancellation process is deliberately obstructed or makes it unreasonably difficult to leave, this may breach fair trading principles under the Fair Trading Act 1986. Similarly, forcing you to delete your backed-up data simply to cancel (rather than offering account suspension or data export) could be seen as unreasonable conduct. The Commerce Commission, New Zealand's consumer regulator, enforces these rights on your behalf.

Your right to cancel without penalty

You have the unconditional right to cancel Backblaze at any time. However, refunds depend on your plan type and how long you've been subscribed. If you cancel within 14 days of purchase and Backblaze has not delivered the service you paid for, you should request a full refund. Beyond that period, refund eligibility depends on whether you're on a monthly or annual plan-more on that in the refund section below.

Cancellation methods and where to start

Backblaze does not offer an in-app "click-to-cancel" button or support cancellation through app stores. All cancellations must be handled directly on Backblaze's website, which makes the process transparent and creates a clear record of your request.

Account types and cancellation routes

Your cancellation method depends on whether you use Personal Online Backup, B2 Cloud Storage, or both. Backblaze does not operate a dedicated New Zealand support line or physical office in New Zealand, so all cancellations go through their web interface or US-based support. Tocancel recommends handling this entirely online-it's faster, creates a clear record, and avoids miscommunication across time zones.

How to cancel personal online backup step by step

This process takes 5-10 minutes and can be done entirely on your computer from anywhere in New Zealand.

1. Go to the Backblaze website and sign into your account using your email and password.
   • If you forget your password, click the "Forgot password" link on the login page. You'll receive a reset link via email within a few minutes.
2. Once logged in, navigate to Account Settings or your Overview page. The exact label varies depending on your account type, but look for a gear icon or account menu in the top right corner.
3. Find the "Manage subscription" or "Billing" section. Scroll down until you see an option to "Cancel account" or "Cancel subscription." Click this link.
4. Backblaze will ask you why you're leaving. Select the reason that applies-this feedback helps them improve, but your choice does not affect your cancellation.
5. Review the cancellation summary. Confirm that you understand what will happen to your data and when your billing stops.
6. Click "Cancel subscription" or "Confirm cancellation" to complete the process. You'll receive a confirmation email at the address associated with your account within minutes.
7. Save or screenshot this confirmation email as proof of cancellation. You'll need it if a charge appears on your next billing cycle.

If you cannot find the cancellation button

Backblaze occasionally changes its interface. If you cannot locate the cancellation option on your account settings page, try these steps: log out and log back in to refresh the page; check whether you're signed into the correct account (use the email address on your invoice); or contact Backblaze support via their website form and request manual cancellation. Tocancel advises you to document every step-screenshots and email records protect you if there's a dispute later.

Refunds and billing after cancellation

Refund eligibility depends on your plan type and how much of your subscription period remains. Understanding this upfront helps you decide whether to cancel immediately or wait until your next renewal date.

Monthly plan refunds

If you're on a monthly plan and cancel mid-cycle, Backblaze will not refund the unused portion of your current month. Your access will stop at the end of the current billing period. This means if you cancel on the 15th of a 30-day month, you'll still have access until day 30, but you won't receive a refund for the remaining 15 days. However, you will not be charged for the following month.

Annual plan refunds

If you're on an annual plan and cancel within 30 days of purchase, you should receive a full refund minus any fees Backblaze has incurred. After 30 days, refund eligibility becomes limited. Some annual plans offer pro-rata refunds (a refund for the unused months), but this is not guaranteed-check your original agreement or contact Backblaze support to confirm. If Backblaze refuses to refund a reasonable portion of an annual plan you've used for less than 3 months, you can escalate to the Commerce Commission.

What happens to your data

After you cancel, Backblaze will delete your backed-up files after 30 days. This grace period gives you time to download your data or reactivate your account if you change your mind. Before you cancel, download any files you need and confirm they're safe on your computer or another storage device. Tocancel recommends you test access to your local backup files before you officially submit the cancellation request, so you're certain nothing is lost.

Pricing and billing cycles

Understanding Backblaze's pricing structure helps you time your cancellation to avoid unnecessary charges.

Prices are converted to NZD at Backblaze's current exchange rate and may vary slightly. Check your invoice to confirm the exact amount you're being charged. If you see a charge you don't recognise, contact Backblaze support immediately-they can review your billing history and issue a correction if needed.

Common mistakes to avoid when cancelling

Cancellation can be stressful, especially if you're worried about losing files or facing unexpected charges. Here are the pitfalls that trip up customers and how to sidestep them.

Mistake 1: not downloading your data before cancelling

Once you cancel, you have 30 days to download your files. After that, Backblaze deletes everything. If you don't download your data during this window, you may lose files permanently. Before you click "Confirm cancellation," log into your Backblaze account, navigate to the Restore section, and download any files you'll need after cancellation. Test the files on your computer to ensure they restored correctly.

Mistake 2: cancelling mid-cycle on a monthly plan without checking your next billing date

If you cancel on the 15th of the month but your billing date is the 20th, you'll still be charged for that month. Check your invoice or account settings to see when your next charge is due. If it's within a few days, consider waiting until after that charge to cancel-you've already paid for access through that date, so you might as well use it.

Mistake 3: forgetting to cancel B2 cloud storage if you use it

If you use both Personal Backup and B2 Cloud Storage, cancelling one does not automatically cancel the other. You must delete all B2 buckets and application keys separately, or you'll continue to incur charges on a pay-as-you-go basis. Log into your B2 console, delete every bucket, and confirm that your balance shows zero before you consider yourself fully cancelled.

Mistake 4: not keeping a record of your cancellation confirmation

Backblaze sends a cancellation confirmation email, but occasionally these get lost in spam or archived folders. Save a screenshot of your confirmation and note the date and time of cancellation. If a charge appears on your credit card after cancellation, this proof helps you dispute it with your bank and with Backblaze support. Tocancel advises keeping this record for at least 6 months.

Mistake 5: assuming you need to delete all your files to cancel

Some users delete all their files before cancelling, thinking this is mandatory. It isn't. Backblaze will delete your files automatically 30 days after cancellation. You do not need to manually delete anything-doing so just removes your backup copies sooner and wastes the access time you've already paid for.

What happens after you cancel

Cancellation doesn't happen instantly-there are several steps you need to take to ensure a clean break and protect yourself from surprise charges.

Check for lingering charges

Wait 5-7 business days after cancellation and check your bank or credit card statement. Backblaze should not charge you again, but if a charge appears, contact your bank immediately and dispute it as unauthorised. Then email Backblaze support with proof of your cancellation and ask for a refund. In most cases, the company processes this within 7-10 working days.

Verify your account is suspended

Log into your Backblaze account a week after cancellation to confirm your subscription is cancelled. If you still see an active backup status or can access your files beyond the 30-day grace period, contact Backblaze support-this may indicate a system glitch that requires manual intervention.

Follow up if you're entitled to a refund

If you cancelled within 30 days of purchase and expect a refund, check your bank account 10-14 business days after cancellation. Refunds are processed to the original payment method (credit card, bank transfer, or PayPal, depending on what you used). If a refund doesn't arrive within 14 days, contact Backblaze support and request a status update. Have your cancellation confirmation and original invoice handy.

If Backblaze refuses to cancel or refund

If Backblaze ignores your cancellation request, continues to charge you, or refuses a refund you believe you're entitled to, you have legal protections. Tocancel is here to help you understand your next steps.

Your escalation rights

First, send a formal written request to Backblaze support via their website contact form. State clearly: "I am requesting cancellation of my account [email address] effective immediately. I also request a refund of [amount] under the Consumer Guarantees Act 1993. Please confirm cancellation within 5 working days." Keep a copy of this request.

If Backblaze does not respond within 5 working days or refuses your request unreasonably, lodge a complaint with the Commerce Commission. The Commerce Commission is New Zealand's consumer protection regulator and can investigate breaches of the Consumer Guarantees Act and Fair Trading Act. You can file a complaint online at www.comcom.govt.nz or by phone. The Commission does not charge a fee and will investigate on your behalf.

You also have the right to pursue the matter through the Disputes Tribunal or small claims court if the amount is under NZD 15,000 and you're a consumer (not a business). Tocancel recommends keeping all cancellation requests, confirmation emails, bank statements, and refund communication as evidence.

Before you cancel: a final checklist

Use this checklist to ensure you've covered all the essential steps before you submit your cancellation.

Summary and next steps

Cancelling Backblaze is straightforward when you follow the right process. You have strong consumer rights under New Zealand law: the service must be fit for purpose, refunds are available within 30 days of purchase, and you can escalate to the Commerce Commission if Backblaze breaches these protections.

To cancel, log into your Backblaze account, navigate to Account Settings, find the cancellation option, and confirm your request. Download your files within the 30-day grace period, check your bank statement 5-7 days later to ensure no unauthorised charges have appeared, and save your confirmation email as proof.

If you're unsure about any step or face resistance from Backblaze, remember that you can always escalate to the Commerce Commission. Tocancel has helped thousands of consumers cancel online services with confidence and recover refunds they were rightfully owed. Visit Tocancel.com now to explore resources, templates, and step-by-step guides for cancelling other services you no longer need.

Contact details and escalation

Backblaze does not maintain a dedicated physical office in New Zealand. All cancellations and inquiries should be directed through their website support form at backblaze.com/support.

If you need to send a formal written request by post, you can address correspondence to Backblaze's US headquarters:

Backblaze, Inc.
San Mateo, California
United States of America

However, Tocancel strongly recommends handling all cancellations online via their website and keeping email records. This creates a clear audit trail and is faster than international post.

For escalation, contact:

Commerce Commission (New Zealand)
www.comcom.govt.nz
Telephone: 0800 943 600
This is your first port of call if Backblaze breaches the Consumer Guarantees Act or Fair Trading Act.