Real Simple, launched in 2000, is all about making life easier with tips on home, food, and wellness. But sometimes, managing another subscription is anything but simple. Maybe you signed up for the organizing tips but now you're embracing the 'soft life' trend and decluttering your inbox and mailbox for good. With plans ranging from $10 to $30, you can save up to $30 a year by canceling. This guide covers how to do it online or over the phone.
How to Cancel Real Simple Subscription on Desktop
Canceling your Real Simple subscription online is the fastest way to get it done. You just have to navigate their slightly confusing customer service portal. It works on a desktop or mobile browser, but I've found it's less glitchy on a computer.
1 Go to the Customer Service Portal
First, you need to get to the right place. Go to the Real Simple customer service website. It's not on the main RealSimple.com site, which is kind of annoying. You'll need to find their dedicated magazine account portal.
2 Log In to Your Account
Find the login section. You can usually sign in with your account number (it's on your magazine label) and zip code, or with the email address and password you used when you subscribed. I had to try both before it finally let me in.
3 Find Your Subscription
Once you're in, you should see your subscription details. Look for a link or button that says something like 'Manage Subscription' or 'My Account'. It might be tucked away in a corner.
4 Select the Cancel Option
This is the tricky part. You're looking for an option to 'Cancel Subscription' or 'Turn Off Automatic Renewal'. They really don't make it obvious. As of May 2024, some users say you have to click through a couple of pages of 'special offers' before you get to the actual cancellation screen. Just keep clicking 'No, thanks'.
5 Confirm Your Cancellation
You'll probably have to confirm your choice one last time. Make sure you get a confirmation message on the screen or an email that says your subscription has been cancelled. Don't just close the window. Wait for proof.
Cancel Real Simple Subscription with Phone
You can call customer service at 1-800-888-2424. Be prepared for a bit of a wait and for them to try to convince you to stay with a special offer. One user on a forum said, 'The phone agent offered me 50% off, but I just wanted to cancel. Had to say no three times.' Hours are typically standard business hours, Monday to Friday.
Cancel Real Simple Subscription with Email
If you prefer email, you can try reaching out through the contact form on their customer service website. Don't expect a quick reply, though. It can take a few business days to get a response, so calling is usually faster if you're in a hurry.
Before you cancel, know this: you likely won't get a refund for any time left on your subscription. You're just stopping it from renewing automatically. Your magazines will keep coming until your paid term is over. They don't delete any data, but there isn't much to delete anyway.
Real Simple Plans and Pricing 2025
| Plan | Price (per year) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Digital Only | ~$10 | Access to the digital magazine on your tablet or phone. Includes the current issue and access to a back catalog. Good if you just want to read on the go. |
| Print + Digital | ~$20 - $30 | You get the physical magazine delivered to your door plus all the benefits of the digital-only plan. This is the classic subscription. |
Frequently Asked Questions about Real Simple
Can I unsubscribe from Real Simple anytime?
Can I get a refund from Real Simple if I forgot to cancel?
How do I know my Real Simple subscription is cancelled?
How long does it take for Real Simple to cancel?
What else should I know before I cancel my Real Simple subscription?
How do I raise a complaint to Real Simple?
Emma Sullivan
EdTech and Media Writer
Emma Sullivan is the EdTech & Media Writer at Pine AI, focusing on the intersection of educational technology, digital media, and consumer trends. With over a decade of experience as a technology journalist and an educator, Emma brings a unique, hands-on perspective to their analysis. In her full time profession Emma teaches digital literacy programs and reports for leading technology publications, where they cover the launch of major educational platforms and the integration of new media in learning environments. Emma is committed to providing readers with practical, insightful, and reliable guidance whether it's about saving money or practical subscription hacks, she wants to empower consumers through knowleddge.
