How to Cancel BeenVerified: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
BeenVerified is a popular people search and background check service that provides access to a vast database of public records. While it can be a useful tool for finding information, you might decide to cancel your subscription for various reasons, such as finding the information you needed, concerns about recurring charges, or simply no longer requiring the service. Canceling your BeenVerified subscription can seem daunting, but this comprehensive guide provides detailed, step-by-step instructions to ensure a smooth and hassle-free cancellation process.
Understanding the BeenVerified Subscription Model
Before diving into the cancellation process, it’s important to understand how BeenVerified’s subscription model works. BeenVerified typically offers recurring subscription plans, meaning you’re automatically billed at regular intervals (usually monthly) unless you actively cancel your subscription. Understanding this is crucial to avoid unexpected charges after you no longer need the service.
Common subscription types include:
- Monthly Membership: A recurring monthly fee grants you access to unlimited searches.
- Trial Period: A limited-time trial period, often at a reduced price, that converts to a full monthly membership unless canceled before the trial ends. Pay close attention to the trial end date.
- Specific Report Purchases: While less common, some users might have purchased specific reports instead of a full membership. Canceling a subscription won’t affect previously purchased reports, but will prevent future recurring charges.
Always check your account details or recent billing statements to confirm your specific subscription type and billing cycle. This information will be helpful during the cancellation process.
Why Cancel BeenVerified? Common Reasons
People choose to cancel their BeenVerified subscriptions for a variety of reasons, including:
- Finished Research: You’ve found the information you needed and no longer require ongoing access to the service.
- Cost Concerns: The monthly subscription fee is no longer justifiable for your current needs.
- Privacy Concerns: Concerns about data privacy or the handling of personal information.
- Lack of Use: You’re not actively using the service and don’t want to pay for a subscription you’re not benefiting from.
- Alternative Services: You’ve found a different people search or background check service that better suits your needs.
- Unexpected Charges: Unintentional subscription renewals or charges you weren’t aware of.
- Found Inaccurate Information: Concerns about the accuracy or reliability of the information provided by BeenVerified.
Methods for Canceling Your BeenVerified Subscription
BeenVerified offers several methods for canceling your subscription. Choose the method that’s most convenient for you:
- Cancel Online Through Your Account Dashboard (Recommended): This is generally the easiest and fastest method.
- Cancel Via Phone: Contact BeenVerified’s customer support by phone.
- Cancel Via Email: Send an email to BeenVerified’s customer support requesting cancellation.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Each Cancellation Method
1. Canceling Online Through Your Account Dashboard
This method provides the most control and often the fastest confirmation of cancellation.
Step 1: Access the BeenVerified Website and Log In
- Open your web browser and go to the BeenVerified website: www.beenverified.com
- Click on the “Sign In” or “Log In” button, usually located in the top right corner of the page.
- Enter the email address and password associated with your BeenVerified account.
- If you’ve forgotten your password, click on the “Forgot Password?” link and follow the instructions to reset it.
Step 2: Navigate to Your Account Settings or Membership Details
- Once logged in, look for a section labeled “Account,” “My Account,” “Settings,” or “Membership.” The exact wording may vary slightly depending on the website’s design.
- This section usually contains information about your subscription, billing details, and other account-related settings.
- You might need to click on a specific tab or link within the Account section to access your subscription details. Look for options like “Subscription Status,” “Billing Information,” or “Manage Membership.”
Step 3: Locate the Cancellation Option
- Within your account settings, look for a prominent button or link labeled “Cancel Subscription,” “Cancel Membership,” or something similar. It might also be phrased as “End Membership” or “Terminate Subscription.”
- The cancellation option might be hidden or require you to scroll down the page. Be sure to carefully review all the options available on the page.
- If you’re having trouble finding the cancellation option, try using the website’s search function and typing in keywords like “cancel,” “subscription,” or “membership.”
Step 4: Follow the On-Screen Instructions
- Once you’ve found the cancellation option, click on it. You’ll likely be presented with a series of confirmation screens or questions.
- BeenVerified may ask you to provide a reason for canceling your subscription. This is often optional, but providing feedback can help them improve their service.
- Read each screen carefully and follow the instructions provided. You may need to click on a confirmation button or check a box to acknowledge that you understand the cancellation terms.
- Be prepared to encounter offers to keep your subscription, such as discounts or trial periods. Carefully consider these offers, but don’t feel pressured to accept them if you’re sure you want to cancel.
Step 5: Confirm Your Cancellation
- After completing the cancellation process, you should receive a confirmation message on the screen. This message will typically indicate the date your subscription will be terminated and when your last billing cycle will end.
- It’s crucial to take a screenshot or print a copy of this confirmation message for your records. This will serve as proof of cancellation in case any issues arise later.
- You should also receive a confirmation email from BeenVerified confirming your cancellation. Check your email inbox (including your spam folder) for this email. Save the email for your records.
Step 6: Verify Cancellation on Your Account
- After receiving confirmation, log back into your BeenVerified account to verify that the cancellation has been processed.
- Navigate to your account settings or membership details and check the status of your subscription. It should indicate that your subscription is canceled and provide the date of termination.
- If your account still shows an active subscription after you’ve completed the cancellation process, contact BeenVerified’s customer support immediately.
2. Canceling Via Phone
If you prefer to speak to a customer service representative, canceling by phone is a viable option.
Step 1: Find BeenVerified’s Customer Service Phone Number
- Visit the BeenVerified website: www.beenverified.com
- Look for a “Contact Us” or “Customer Support” link. This is usually located in the footer of the website or in the Help section.
- The customer service phone number should be listed on the Contact Us page.
- You can also try searching online for “BeenVerified customer service phone number.”
Step 2: Call Customer Support
- Dial the customer service phone number during their business hours. Be aware that wait times may vary depending on the time of day and the volume of calls.
- Have your account information ready, including your email address and any other details that might be needed to identify your account.
Step 3: Request Cancellation
- When you speak to a customer service representative, clearly state that you want to cancel your BeenVerified subscription.
- Be polite and professional, even if you’re frustrated.
- The representative may ask you for your reason for canceling. You can provide a brief explanation, but you’re not obligated to give a detailed account.
- Be prepared to encounter offers to keep your subscription, such as discounts or trial periods. Firmly reiterate your desire to cancel if you’re not interested in these offers.
Step 4: Confirm Cancellation
- Ask the customer service representative to confirm that your subscription has been canceled.
- Request a cancellation confirmation number or reference number. This will serve as proof of cancellation in case any issues arise later.
- Ask when your subscription will be terminated and when your last billing cycle will end.
- Inquire about receiving a confirmation email. If you don’t receive an email within 24 hours, follow up with customer support.
Step 5: Verify Cancellation on Your Account
- After the phone call, log back into your BeenVerified account to verify that the cancellation has been processed.
- Navigate to your account settings or membership details and check the status of your subscription. It should indicate that your subscription is canceled and provide the date of termination.
- If your account still shows an active subscription after you’ve spoken to customer service, contact them again immediately.
3. Canceling Via Email
Canceling via email offers a written record of your request, but it may take longer to process than canceling online or by phone.
Step 1: Find BeenVerified’s Customer Service Email Address
- Visit the BeenVerified website: www.beenverified.com
- Look for a “Contact Us” or “Customer Support” link. This is usually located in the footer of the website or in the Help section.
- The customer service email address should be listed on the Contact Us page.
- You can also try searching online for “BeenVerified customer service email address.”
Step 2: Compose Your Cancellation Email
- Open your email client and compose a new email.
- In the “To” field, enter the BeenVerified customer service email address.
- In the “Subject” field, write a clear and concise subject line such as “Subscription Cancellation Request” or “Request to Cancel BeenVerified Membership.”
- In the body of the email, clearly state that you want to cancel your BeenVerified subscription.
- Include your account information, such as your email address and any other details that might be needed to identify your account.
- Provide a brief reason for canceling, if you wish.
- Request confirmation of your cancellation and ask when your subscription will be terminated.
- Keep your email polite and professional.
Sample Email Template:
Subject: Subscription Cancellation Request Dear BeenVerified Customer Support, I am writing to request cancellation of my BeenVerified subscription associated with the following email address: [Your Email Address] [Optional: Briefly state your reason for canceling, e.g., "I no longer require the service."] Please confirm the cancellation of my subscription and let me know the date on which my subscription will be terminated. Thank you for your time and assistance. Sincerely, [Your Name]
Step 3: Send Your Email
- Carefully review your email to ensure that all information is accurate and complete.
- Send the email to the BeenVerified customer service email address.
Step 4: Follow Up (If Necessary)
- Allow a reasonable amount of time for BeenVerified to respond to your email. This may take a few business days.
- If you haven’t received a response within a week, follow up with another email or try contacting customer support by phone.
- In your follow-up email, reiterate your cancellation request and reference your previous email.
Step 5: Verify Cancellation on Your Account
- Once you receive confirmation of your cancellation, log back into your BeenVerified account to verify that the cancellation has been processed.
- Navigate to your account settings or membership details and check the status of your subscription. It should indicate that your subscription is canceled and provide the date of termination.
- If your account still shows an active subscription after you’ve received confirmation, contact customer support again immediately.
Troubleshooting Common Cancellation Issues
Even with careful planning, you might encounter issues during the cancellation process. Here are some common problems and how to address them:
- Difficulty Finding the Cancellation Option: As mentioned earlier, BeenVerified might make the cancellation option less prominent. Thoroughly explore your account settings and use the website’s search function. If you still can’t find it, contact customer support for assistance.
- Being Charged After Cancellation: This is a common issue. First, verify that you received a cancellation confirmation. Then, contact BeenVerified’s customer support immediately and provide them with your cancellation confirmation number or email. Request a refund for the unauthorized charge. If they are unresponsive, consider contacting your bank or credit card company to dispute the charge.
- Being Offered Discounts or Incentives to Stay: BeenVerified might offer you discounts or free trials to convince you to keep your subscription. While these offers might be tempting, don’t feel pressured to accept them if you’re certain you want to cancel. Firmly reiterate your desire to cancel your subscription.
- No Response from Customer Support: If you’ve contacted customer support by email or phone and haven’t received a response within a reasonable timeframe, try contacting them again through a different channel. Persistence is key. Document all your attempts to contact them.
- Account Still Active After Cancellation: Log into your account to verify that the cancellation has been processed. If your account is still active, even after receiving a confirmation, contact customer support immediately. Provide them with your cancellation confirmation and request that they manually terminate your subscription.
Tips for a Smooth Cancellation Process
Follow these tips to ensure a smooth and hassle-free cancellation experience:
- Cancel Before Your Renewal Date: To avoid being charged for another month, cancel your subscription at least a few days before your next billing date. Check your account details or billing statements to find your renewal date.
- Keep Records of Everything: Save all cancellation confirmation emails, screenshots, and any other documentation related to your cancellation. This will be helpful if you need to dispute any charges or resolve any issues later.
- Be Persistent: If you encounter any problems during the cancellation process, don’t give up. Keep contacting customer support until your issue is resolved.
- Check Your Bank Statements: Monitor your bank statements or credit card statements for any unauthorized charges from BeenVerified after you’ve canceled your subscription.
- Consider Using a Temporary Credit Card: When signing up for free trials or subscriptions, consider using a temporary or virtual credit card. This can help prevent unauthorized charges if you forget to cancel your subscription. Many banks and credit card companies offer this feature.
- Read the Terms of Service: Before signing up for any subscription service, carefully read the terms of service to understand the cancellation policy and any potential fees or restrictions.
Alternatives to BeenVerified
If you’re canceling BeenVerified because you’re looking for a different people search or background check service, here are some alternatives to consider:
- TruthFinder: Another popular option for background checks and people searches.
- PeopleFinders: Focuses on finding contact information and addresses.
- Intelius: Provides background checks, reverse phone lookups, and criminal record searches.
- Instant Checkmate: Offers background checks, criminal records, and public records searches.
- ZabaSearch: A free people search engine that provides basic information.
Research each service carefully to determine which one best suits your needs and budget.
Protecting Your Privacy After Cancellation
After canceling your BeenVerified subscription, consider taking these steps to further protect your privacy:
- Review BeenVerified’s Privacy Policy: Understand how BeenVerified collects, uses, and shares your personal information.
- Consider Requesting Data Removal: Depending on BeenVerified’s privacy policy and applicable laws, you may have the right to request that they remove your personal information from their database. Contact their customer support or privacy department to inquire about this process.
- Monitor Your Online Presence: Regularly search for your name online to see what information is publicly available. You can use tools like Google Alerts to be notified when your name is mentioned online.
- Control Your Social Media Settings: Adjust your privacy settings on social media platforms to limit the amount of personal information that is publicly accessible.
- Be Cautious About Sharing Personal Information Online: Think carefully before sharing personal information online, as it can be easily collected and used by others.
Conclusion
Canceling your BeenVerified subscription doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. By following the detailed steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure a smooth and efficient cancellation process. Remember to choose the cancellation method that’s most convenient for you, keep records of all your communication with BeenVerified, and monitor your account for any unauthorized charges. By taking these precautions, you can successfully cancel your subscription and avoid any unwanted surprises.