Thinking about canceling Parallels? You're not alone. Parallels, founded back in 1999, is a lifesaver for running Windows on a Mac, but keeping a subscription active when you don't need it is just burning cash. Maybe you bought Parallels just to play Helldivers 2 on your Mac and now the hype has died down, leaving you with a recurring charge. This guide will help you cancel it without any fuss. Subscriptions range from $99.99 to $149.99, and you can manage your account right from your desktop. By canceling, you could save up to $150 a year. Let's get that money back in your pocket.
How to Cancel Parallels Subscription on Desktop
Canceling Parallels is done through their online account portal. It's not in the app itself, which can be a little confusing. You're essentially just turning off the automatic renewal. It should be simple, but sometimes these account pages are designed to be a bit of a maze. I had to click around a bit to find the right spot.
1 Go to the Parallels Website
Open your web browser and navigate to my.parallels.com. Don't try to do this from the app on your Mac, it'll just send you here anyway.
2 Log In to Your Account
Enter the email and password you used when you first bought Parallels. If you forgot your password, now's the time to go through the 'Forgot Password' process. Annoying, but necessary.
3 Find Your Active Subscriptions
Once you're logged in, look for a dashboard or a menu. You need to find the section labeled 'Active Subscriptions' under 'Parallels Desktop for Mac'. It's sometimes hidden under an 'Account & Billing' menu.
4 Turn Off Automatic Renewal
You'll see your active subscription listed. Next to it, there should be a link or button that says 'Turn off automatic renewal'. Click it. This is the 'cancel' button, they just word it differently.
5 Confirm the Cancellation
A pop-up will likely appear asking if you're sure you want to cancel. They might offer you a discount to stay. If you're set on canceling, just confirm your choice. Make sure you get a confirmation on the screen or in your email.
Cancel Parallels Subscription with Support Ticket
If you're having trouble, the most reliable way to get help is by submitting a support ticket. Go to the Parallels support page, log in, and follow the prompts to create a request. Explain that you want to cancel your subscription. Expect a response within 24-48 hours, though it can sometimes take longer.
Cancel Parallels Subscription with Phone
Parallels lists a support number, but it's often for technical issues and you might face long wait times. For US customers, you can try calling +1 (888) 811-24-89. Be prepared to navigate a phone menu and verify your account details. Honestly, the online method is usually faster.
Before you hit cancel, here's the deal. Your virtual machines and all your data are safe on your computer; canceling the subscription doesn't delete them. However, once your paid period ends, Parallels Desktop might stop working or revert to a limited-functionality mode. As for refunds, Parallels has a 30-day money-back guarantee on new purchases. If you just got charged for a renewal? You're probably out of luck, as they typically don't refund those. And no, you can't pause the subscription. It's an all-or-nothing deal.
Parallels Plans and Pricing 2025
| Plan | Price (per year) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Edition | $99.99 | Designed for home and student use. Supports up to 8 GB of vRAM and 4 vCPUs for your Windows virtual machine. Good for running everyday applications and some light gaming. |
| Pro Edition | $119.99 | For developers, testers, and power users. Supports up to 128 GB of vRAM and 32 vCPUs. Includes advanced networking tools, Visual Studio integration, and premium 24/7 phone and email support. |
| Business Edition | $149.99 | Built for use in work environments. Includes all Pro features plus centralized administration, unified volume license keys, and business-level support. |
Frequently Asked Questions about Parallels
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Rachel Adams
Technology & Software Editor
Rachel Adams is the Lead Tech & App writer at Pine AI, where she decodes the complexities of the digital software landscape. With over eight years of experience as a software reviewer and tech journalist, her work focuses on the security, usability, and subscription models of popular apps and SaaS platforms. Rachel's insights empower consumers to make informed decisions, avoid predatory billing, and select software that genuinely adds value.
