How to cancel Simply Earth in south africa: your complete step-by-step guide
What is Simply Earth and why you might cancel
Simply Earth is a US-based subscription service that delivers monthly boxes containing essential oils, blending supplies, and educational recipe guides directly to your door. The service operates on flexible commitment models-ranging from a single month to a locked 12-month plan-and ships internationally to South Africa. If you've subscribed and now wish to cancel, understanding your legal rights and the correct cancellation procedure is essential. Yafee has helped thousands of consumers navigate subscription cancellations in South Africa, and this guide will walk you through every scenario so you can exit without unnecessary charges or confusion.
How Simply Earth operates
When you subscribe, you select one of three commitment options: a 1-month flexible plan, a 6-month locked plan, or a 12-month locked plan. Each month you remain subscribed, Simply Earth charges your payment method and dispatches a box from the United States to your South African address. The service charges in USD, so your South African bank converts the amount to ZAR at its prevailing exchange rate on the transaction date. International transaction fees may apply on top of the base subscription cost, depending on your bank's policy.
Why cancellation timing matters
If you cancel promptly after deciding Simply Earth no longer suits you, you stop future charges and prevent unwanted boxes arriving. South African customers face currency conversion fees and international shipping costs, which add significantly to each month's expense. Understanding your cancellation rights and deadline-particularly under South African consumer law-ensures you reclaim money you're legally entitled to and avoid hidden charges. Yafee recommends acting within 7 days of your first box's arrival to maximise your protection under the cooling-off period.
Your consumer rights in south africa
South African law grants you robust protection when purchasing from overseas companies, even if the seller is based in the United States. These rights form your legal foundation if Simply Earth refuses to honour a cancellation request or continues charging after you've cancelled.
The cooling-off period and distance transactions
Under South Africa's Electronic Communications and Transactions (ECT) Act No. 25 of 2002, you possess an unconditional right to cancel a distance transaction within 7 calendar days of receipt for goods. Simply Earth's recipe boxes qualify as goods, not services, so the 7-day cooling-off period applies from the date your first box arrives at your address. The seller must refund all sums you have paid-without deduction, without store credit, and without penalty-within 30 days of your written cancellation request. This refund is automatic; you do not need to provide a reason or justify your decision.
Your legal position: If you cancel within 7 days of delivery, Simply Earth must refund 100 percent of your payment. The company cannot impose early-termination fees, charge restocking costs, or require you to return the box. The only exception is if you caused damage beyond normal wear; in that case, Simply Earth may deduct reasonable costs for damage repair or replacement.
What happens if Simply Earth refuses to cancel
If Simply Earth ignores your cancellation request, continues charging your card after you've cancelled, or refuses to issue a refund within 30 days, you can escalate your complaint to the National Consumer Commission (NCC) in South Africa. The NCC is the statutory body responsible for enforcing consumer protection law and can investigate unfair business practices, force refunds, and impose penalties on non-compliant sellers. Keep all email confirmations, cancellation screenshots, and bank statements showing charges as evidence. Yafee strongly advises retaining these documents for at least 12 months.
Subscription pricing and what you pay
Understanding Simply Earth's pricing structure helps you calculate what you owe and what you might recover through cancellation.
Current subscription plans and pricing
| Plan |
Price per month (USD) |
Billing cycle |
Commitment period |
Typical ZAR cost |
| 1-Month flexible |
USD 44.99 |
Monthly |
None |
approximately R810 |
| 6-Month commitment |
USD 42.99 |
Monthly (6 months locked) |
6 months |
approximately R774 |
| 12-Month commitment |
USD 39.99 |
Monthly (12 months locked) |
12 months |
approximately R720 |
Currency conversion and additional fees
Your South African bank statement will display the ZAR equivalent of the USD charge. At current exchange rates (approximately 18 to 19 ZAR per USD), monthly charges range from R720 to R855 depending on your plan and your bank's exchange rate on the charge date. Most South African banks apply an international transaction fee of 1 to 2.5 percent on USD purchases; check your bank's fee schedule to determine the exact amount you're charged. These fees are added to the base subscription cost and appear on your statement as separate line items. When you cancel, verify your bank statements for 3 months post-cancellation to confirm no further charges have been applied.
How to cancel Simply Earth
Your cancellation method depends on where you created your Simply Earth account: directly through the Simply Earth website, via the Apple App Store, or via Google Play.
Cancellation via the Simply Earth website
- Open your web browser and navigate to the Simply Earth website.
- Log in to your account using your email address and password.
- If you've forgotten your password, click "Forgot Password" and follow the email instructions to reset it.
- Locate the "Subscription" or "Account Settings" section in your user dashboard.
- This is typically found in the top-right corner under your profile name or in a dedicated menu labelled "My Account".
- Click on "Manage Subscription" or "View Subscription Details".
- You will see your current plan, next billing date, and subscription status.
- Select the "Cancel Subscription" or "Cancel" button.
- Simply Earth may display a form asking why you're cancelling; this is optional and not required for cancellation to proceed.
- Confirm your cancellation when prompted.
- Take a screenshot of the confirmation message, which will include a cancellation date and a reference number.
- Check your email immediately for a cancellation confirmation email from Simply Earth.
- If you do not receive an email within 24 hours, screenshot the confirmation from step 5 and email Simply Earth's support team at the address listed below to request written confirmation of your cancellation.
Cancellation via apple app store
- Open the Apple App Store on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
- On iPhone or iPad: tap the profile icon (your photo) in the top-right corner.
- On Mac: click your name or Apple ID in the top-right corner of the App Store window.
- Select "Subscriptions".
- You will see a list of all active subscriptions linked to your Apple ID.
- Tap the Simply Earth subscription.
- The subscription details screen opens, showing your renewal date and current plan.
- Tap "Cancel Subscription".
- Apple will display a final offer to retain the subscription at a discounted rate; you can ignore this and proceed with cancellation.
- Confirm cancellation when prompted.
- Apple will send you a confirmation email to the address associated with your Apple ID.
- Your subscription will end at the next renewal date, and no further charges will occur.
Cancellation via google play
- Open the Google Play Store app on your Android device or visit play.google.com in a browser.
- On Android: tap your profile icon in the top-right corner.
- On browser: click your profile icon in the top-right corner.
- Select "Payments and subscriptions" or "Manage subscriptions".
- A list of your active subscriptions appears.
- Tap the Simply Earth subscription.
- The subscription page opens, showing your renewal date and plan details.
- Tap "Cancel subscription".
- Google Play will prompt you to confirm and may display retention offers.
- Confirm cancellation.
- Google Play sends a confirmation email to your registered Gmail address.
- Your subscription ends at the next renewal date, and no future charges apply.
Cancellation by email or post
If you cannot access your account or the online cancellation process fails, you have the right to cancel by written communication. Send an email or letter to Simply Earth's customer support team stating your full name, email address, subscription order number, and explicit request to cancel. Request written confirmation of the cancellation date. If you choose to send a physical letter, use registered post to ensure proof of delivery.
Refunds and what to expect after cancellation
Once you've cancelled, understanding the refund timeline and your rights is crucial to ensure you recover any money owed.
Refund eligibility and timelines
If you cancel within 7 days of your first box's arrival, you are entitled to a full refund of all sums paid. Under the ECT Act, Simply Earth must process this refund within 30 days of receiving your cancellation request. The refund will be returned to the original payment method you used (your bank card, PayPal account, or other payment processor). Depending on your bank and the payment method, the refund may take an additional 5 to 10 business days to appear in your account as a credit. Consequently, expect the full refund to land in your bank account within 30 to 40 days from the date you submitted your cancellation request.
If you cancel after the 7-day cooling-off period
If you cancel after 7 days, you lose the automatic right to a full refund under the cooling-off period. Nevertheless, if your contract with Simply Earth contains unfair terms or if the company has engaged in misleading marketing, you may still have grounds to request a refund via the National Consumer Commission. Additionally, if Simply Earth continues to charge you after you've submitted a cancellation request, those charges after the cancellation date are unauthorised and must be refunded. Document all communication and charges to support any complaint.
Protecting yourself during the refund process
Monitor your bank statement closely for 60 days after cancellation to confirm no further charges appear. If a charge does appear after your cancellation date, contact your bank immediately and raise a dispute. Provide your bank with the cancellation confirmation email and any screenshots as evidence that you cancelled. Your bank can reverse unauthorised charges and may issue a provisional credit while investigating. Keep all evidence-cancellation emails, screenshots, bank statements, and correspondence with Simply Earth-for at least 12 months. Yafee recommends creating a folder on your computer or phone with scanned or photographed copies of these documents.
Common cancellation mistakes to avoid
Cancellation is straightforward once you know the process, but several common errors can delay or prevent your exit.
Mistake 1: assuming non-payment equals cancellation
Simply stopping payment or blocking Simply Earth's charges does not cancel your subscription. The company may send you overdue invoices, attempt collection, or report you to credit bureaus. Always use the formal cancellation process (whether online, by app, or by email) to ensure your contract is properly terminated and your legal rights are protected.
Mistake 2: not obtaining written confirmation
Verbal cancellation or cancellation via social media is insufficient. Always ensure you receive a written confirmation email with a cancellation date and reference number. If the website confirmation page does not generate an email within 24 hours, email Simply Earth's support team immediately requesting written confirmation. Without this documentation, you have no proof of cancellation if a dispute arises.
Mistake 3: forgetting to check for app-specific subscriptions
If you subscribed via the Apple App Store or Google Play, cancelling on the Simply Earth website will not stop your subscription. You must cancel through the app store where you signed up. Check all three platforms (website, Apple App Store, Google Play) to ensure you have cancelled everywhere you subscribed.
Mistake 4: ignoring post-cancellation charges
After you cancel, continue checking your bank statement for 90 days. If a charge appears after your cancellation date, contact your bank immediately to dispute it. Do not assume the charge is a mistake that will resolve itself; unauthorised charges must be actively contested.
Comparison of cancellation methods
Each cancellation route has advantages and disadvantages depending on your account type and technical comfort.
| Method |
Time required |
Confirmation |
Best for |
| Website account dashboard |
2 to 3 minutes |
Instant confirmation + email |
Most users |
| Apple App Store |
2 to 3 minutes |
Instant confirmation + Apple email |
iPhone or Mac users |
| Google Play |
2 to 3 minutes |
Instant confirmation + Google email |
Android users |
| Email to support |
5 to 10 minutes |
Email confirmation (24 to 48 hours) |
Account access issues |
| Registered post |
1 to 2 days |
Postal receipt + dated reply |
Extra documentation needed |
After your cancellation is confirmed
Once you've received written cancellation confirmation, you have completed the formal cancellation process. Nevertheless, several post-cancellation steps protect your financial interests and ensure no hidden charges materialise.
Step 1: monitor your bank account
Check your bank statement every 7 days for 90 days after your cancellation date. Unauthorised charges after cancellation are a breach of the ECT Act and must be reported to your bank immediately. Your bank can raise a dispute and reverse charges on your behalf.
Step 2: verify no boxes arrive
If you receive a Simply Earth box after your cancellation date, refuse delivery or mark it as "return to sender" if it has already been delivered. Do not open the box. Take photographs of the package and its label for your records. Email Simply Earth requesting a refund for the shipment, referencing your cancellation date and order number.
Step 3: request a final statement
Approximately 60 days after cancellation, email Simply Earth requesting a final statement confirming your account has been closed and no outstanding balance remains. This creates a paper trail if any late charges are attempted.
Your next steps: cancellation checklist
Use this checklist to ensure you have completed every necessary action.
| Action |
Status |
Date completed |
| Identify which platform you subscribed via (website, Apple App Store, or Google Play) |
☐ |
___________ |
| Complete the cancellation process on that platform |
☐ |
___________ |
| Screenshot or save the on-screen confirmation message |
☐ |
___________ |
| Receive and save the cancellation confirmation email |
☐ |
___________ |
| Check your bank statement 7 days later for further charges |
☐ |
___________ |
| Confirm no Simply Earth boxes arrive after the cancellation date |
☐ |
___________ |
If Simply Earth refuses to honour your cancellation
Escalation procedures exist in law if Simply Earth ignores your cancellation request or continues charging you illegally.
Step 1: send a formal demand letter
If Simply Earth continues charging after your cancellation, send a formal written demand requesting immediate cessation of charges and a full refund. Include your account number, cancellation date, copies of the cancellation confirmation email, and all bank statements showing unauthorised charges. Send this letter via registered post or email to Simply Earth's customer service address (listed below) and keep proof of delivery.
Step 2: report to the national consumer commission
If Simply Earth does not respond within 30 days of your demand letter, file a complaint with the National Consumer Commission (NCC). The NCC is the statutory body empowered to investigate unfair consumer practices and enforce refunds. You can lodge a complaint online at www.nccsa.org.za or in writing at the address on their website. Include all documentation: cancellation confirmation emails, bank statements, and your demand letter. The NCC will investigate at no cost to you and can compel Simply Earth to refund you.
Step 3: contact your bank or credit card issuer
If Simply Earth refuses to refund you, raise a dispute with your bank or credit card company. Provide them with your cancellation confirmation and bank statements as evidence of unauthorised charges. Your bank can reverse charges and issue provisional credits while it investigates. This step is particularly effective if you paid by credit card, as credit card companies have stronger regulatory obligations to protect consumers against fraudulent or unauthorised charges.
If you need to cancel by email or require assistance, use the following contact details. Yafee recommends always using email or registered post so you have written proof of your communication.
For cancellation inquiries or if the online process fails, contact Simply Earth's customer support team at the address listed on their official website. Alternatively, if you cannot locate current contact information, search Simply Earth's terms and conditions or privacy policy, which typically list customer service email addresses and mailing addresses. When you contact them, reference your subscription order number, full name, and the date you attempted to cancel. Request written confirmation of the cancellation date and any refund amount due.
If Simply Earth fails to respond or honour your cancellation within 30 days, escalate to:
National Consumer Commission (NCC)
Telephone: +27 (0) 12 428 7500
Website: www.nccsa.org.za
Email: [email protected]
Final summary and why yafee can help
Cancelling a Simply Earth subscription in South Africa is legally straightforward once you understand your consumer rights under the ECT Act. You possess a 7-day cooling-off period from receipt of your first box, during which you can cancel without penalty and receive a full refund within 30 days. If Simply Earth refuses to honour your cancellation or continues charging you, the National Consumer Commission has the power to force a refund and impose sanctions on the company.
The cancellation process itself takes only 2 to 3 minutes if you cancel online via the Simply Earth website, Apple App Store, or Google Play. Preserve all confirmation emails and bank statements as evidence. Monitor your account for 90 days post-cancellation to ensure no unauthorised charges have been applied. If charges do appear, contact your bank immediately to dispute them.
Yafee has helped thousands of South African consumers navigate international subscription cancellations, protecting their rights and recovering refunds when companies attempt non-compliance. Whether you are cancelling within the cooling-off period or pursuing a refund for unauthorised charges, follow the steps outlined above and escalate to the National Consumer Commission if the seller refuses to cooperate. Your legal rights under South African consumer law are strong, and enforcement mechanisms exist to ensure sellers respect them. If you require further guidance on any aspect of this process, consult the resources provided or seek advice from a consumer law specialist.