How to cancel Altresume and protect your money in south africa
Understanding Altresume and why you might want to cancel
Altresume is a subscription-based resume-building platform that offers professionally designed templates, editing tools, and customisation features to help you create polished CVs. The service operates as a software-as-a-service (SaaS) product, meaning you pay a recurring subscription fee to unlock premium capabilities beyond basic resume creation.
If you have signed up for Altresume but no longer need the service, whether because you have landed a job, discovered a better alternative, or wish to stop recurring charges, you deserve a transparent and straightforward cancellation process. At Yafee, we help South African consumers navigate subscription exits confidently and recover money where your legal rights apply. Understanding your position before you cancel makes the difference between a smooth exit and months of wasted charges.
What Altresume offers
Altresume provides resume templates, formatting tools, and editing features designed to help job seekers present their professional credentials effectively. You may have subscribed via Google Play for Android devices, the Apple App Store for iOS, or through the Altresume website directly. Each subscription channel operates under different terms and carries distinct cancellation procedures, which is where many users encounter friction.
Common reasons to cancel Altresume
You might cancel because you have completed your resume and no longer need ongoing access, found a free alternative such as Canva or CV Maker, received your first job offer, or noticed unexpected recurring charges on your bank statement. Whatever your reason, South African consumer law protects your right to cancel, and Yafee guides you through the process without confusion.
Your consumer rights when cancelling in south africa
South Africa's Consumer Protection Act (No. 68 of 2008) establishes robust legal protections when you deal with subscription services, including software platforms like Altresume.
The 14-day cooling-off period and how it protects you
Under section 16 of the Consumer Protection Act, you have the right to cancel distance contracts (which includes online subscriptions and app purchases) within 14 calendar days of purchase. This cooling-off period applies provided you have not yet substantially used the service. "Substantially used" means more than minimal exploration; downloading one template or viewing the interface typically does not trigger forfeiture of this right, but creating and editing multiple resumes might.
If you cancel within this 14-day window and have not substantially used Altresume's premium features, you can request a full refund. The burden falls on the service provider to demonstrate that you have substantially used the service and therefore forfeited your right of withdrawal. Consequently, document exactly what you have accessed before cancelling, because this evidence becomes critical if Altresume disputes your refund claim.
Your legal position
You are entitled to cancel any Altresume subscription purchased online within 14 days of purchase without providing reason, provided you have not substantially used the service. If Altresume refuses to honour this right, you can lodge a complaint with the National Consumer Commission (NCC), which enforces the Consumer Protection Act. The NCC's contact details are [email protected] or www.thencc.org.za. Keep all evidence of your purchase, cancellation request, and any refusal by Altresume to comply.
Rights beyond the cooling-off period
If your 14-day cooling-off period has expired but you believe Altresume has breached its contract with you, you retain additional consumer protections. These include the right to cancel if the service is defective, does not match its description, or is persistently unavailable. Section 55 of the Consumer Protection Act requires service providers to deliver goods and services that are of good quality, safe, and reasonably fit for their purpose. If Altresume fails in these duties, you can cancel and claim a refund even after 14 days have passed.
Methods to cancel Altresume based on your subscription channel
Your cancellation method depends entirely on how you subscribed to Altresume: through Google Play, the Apple App Store, or directly via the Altresume website.
Cancel Altresume via google play
If you subscribed through an Android device using Google Play, you must cancel through Google Play's own platform, not through Altresume directly. Google Play subscriptions renew automatically unless you explicitly cancel them. Follow these steps:
- Open Google Play Store on your Android device
- Tap your profile icon in the top right corner
- Select "Manage subscriptions"
- Locate Altresume in your active subscriptions list
- Tap Altresume and select "Cancel subscription"
- Follow the on-screen prompts and confirm cancellation
- Check your email for a cancellation confirmation from Google Play
Google Play will stop charging you at the end of your current billing cycle. Your access to Altresume remains active until that date; you do not lose access immediately upon cancellation. If you cancelled within 14 days of purchase and have not substantially used the service, you can request a refund directly from Google Play by visiting your order history and claiming a refund. Google Play typically processes refunds within 5-7 business days.
Cancel Altresume via apple app store
If you subscribed through an iOS device (iPhone or iPad), you must cancel through Apple's App Store, not through Altresume. Apple subscriptions also renew automatically until cancelled. Here is the correct procedure:
- Open the App Store on your iOS device
- Tap your profile icon at the bottom right
- Select "Subscriptions"
- Find Altresume in your active subscriptions
- Tap Altresume and select "Cancel Subscription"
- Confirm your cancellation choice
- Look for Apple's confirmation email
Apple will cease charging you at the end of your current billing period. Your Altresume access continues until that date expires. If you are within 14 days of purchase and have not substantially used the service, request a refund through Apple by visiting the App Store, selecting your profile, and opening "Purchase History". Apple typically approves and processes refunds within 5-10 business days.
Cancel Altresume via the website or email
If you subscribed directly through the Altresume website using a credit or debit card, you must cancel through your account settings on that website. Unfortunately, Yafee has not identified a confirmed South African contact address or specific website cancellation portal for Altresume. In this case, you should:
- Log into your Altresume account on the website
- Navigate to "Account Settings" or "Subscriptions"
- Look for a "Cancel Subscription" or "Manage Billing" option
- If no option exists, email Altresume's support team requesting cancellation
- Include your full name, email address, account number, and the date you wish cancellation to take effect
- Request written confirmation of cancellation
- Keep a copy of your email and any response
Without a confirmed South African address for Altresume, email remains your most reliable contact method. Yafee recommends sending your cancellation email via certified email or a service that provides delivery and read receipts, ensuring you have proof that Altresume received your request. If Altresume does not respond within 5 business days, escalate your complaint to the National Consumer Commission.
Timeline and what happens after you cancel
Understanding what occurs after your cancellation ensures you do not face unexpected charges or loss of access.
Immediate effects of cancellation
Upon cancellation, Altresume will stop charging you at the end of your current billing period, not immediately. Your subscription remains active and you retain full access to all features until that final billing date. For example, if you cancel on 15 March and your next billing date is 20 March, you have access until 20 March. After that date, your account reverts to free features only (if Altresume offers a free tier) or you lose access entirely.
Refund processing and timelines
If you are entitled to a refund under the 14-day cooling-off period or due to service failure, processing times vary by payment channel. Google Play and Apple App Store typically process refunds within 5-10 business days. Direct website payments (via credit or debit card) depend on your bank; most South African banks credit refunds within 3-5 working days once Altresume issues the refund. Yafee advises checking your bank statement 10-15 days after cancellation to confirm the refund has appeared.
Cancellation confirmation and record-keeping
After cancellation, you will receive confirmation from your subscription channel (Google Play, Apple App Store, or Altresume directly). Screenshot or save this confirmation email immediately. This document proves you cancelled on a specific date and is essential evidence if you later dispute a charge or need to escalate a complaint to the National Consumer Commission. Retain all cancellation confirmations indefinitely.
Common mistakes to avoid when cancelling Altresume
Cancelling a subscription is straightforward when you follow the correct steps, but several common errors delay refunds or leave unwanted charges in place.
Cancelling in the wrong place
The most frequent error is attempting to cancel through Altresume's website or email when you subscribed via Google Play or Apple App Store. These platforms do not communicate; cancelling through Altresume does nothing if your subscription is managed by Google or Apple. Always cancel through the exact platform where you subscribed. If unsure, check your bank statement or email receipts to see which entity charged you: Google Ireland Limited (Google Play), Apple Distribution International (Apple App Store), or Altresume directly.
Assuming cancellation stops charges immediately
Many users cancel and then panic when they see a final charge at the end of their billing period. This is normal and expected; subscription cancellation takes effect at the end of your current billing cycle, not immediately. Plan your cancellation accordingly if you wish to avoid one final charge. If a charge appears after your final billing date, contact your subscription channel's support team immediately.
Not requesting a refund within the cooling-off period
Cancelling your subscription does not automatically trigger a refund; you must request the refund separately, especially if you are within 14 days of purchase. Visit Google Play's or Apple App Store's refund section, or contact Altresume directly in writing, requesting a refund under the Consumer Protection Act's 14-day cooling-off period. Do not assume silence means approval; follow up if you do not receive confirmation within 10 business days.
Neglecting to document your cancellation
Screenshots of cancellation confirmations are your only proof that you cancelled on a specific date. Without this documentation, disputes become your word against Altresume's or your payment provider's. Save every confirmation email, screenshot, and receipt. These documents protect you if unwanted charges continue or if the National Consumer Commission needs to investigate your complaint.
Pricing and subscription tiers at Altresume
Altresume's pricing structure and available tiers affect your refund eligibility and cancellation urgency.
| Subscription tier |
Monthly cost (ZAR) |
Billing cycle |
Key features |
Cancellation ease |
| Free |
R0 |
Ongoing |
Basic templates, limited editing |
No cancellation needed |
| Premium Monthly |
R79-R199 (estimate) |
Monthly auto-renewal |
All templates, advanced editing, export formats |
Cancel before renewal date |
| Premium Annual |
R599-R799 (estimate) |
Annual auto-renewal |
All premium features, priority support |
Cancel within 14 days for full refund |
| Premium Lifetime |
R1,999+ (one-time) |
None |
Permanent access, all features |
Refund only if defective or misrepresented |
Monthly and annual subscriptions renew automatically; you must cancel before the renewal date to avoid the next charge. Annual subscriptions trigger larger charges and may qualify you for refunds under the cooling-off period if you cancel early. Lifetime purchases do not renew but qualify for refunds only if the service is defective or materially misrepresented. Yafee recommends cancelling annual subscriptions within the first 14 days to maximise your refund position.
What to do if Altresume refuses to cancel or refund
If Altresume ignores your cancellation request or denies your refund claim unfairly, South African consumer law provides escalation routes.
Escalating your complaint to the national consumer commission
The National Consumer Commission (NCC) enforces consumer rights in South Africa and investigates complaints against service providers. If Altresume fails to honour your cancellation or refund within 20 business days of your written request, lodge a formal complaint with the NCC. Contact them at:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.thencc.org.za
- Postal address: The National Consumer Commission, Centurion, Pretoria
Include in your complaint all evidence: your original purchase receipt, cancellation request, screenshots of your subscription status, bank statements showing the charges, and any correspondence with Altresume. The NCC investigates for free and can compel Altresume to refund you if it finds the company has breached the Consumer Protection Act.
Disputing the charge with your bank
If Altresume continues charging you after you have cancelled, contact your bank's fraud or dispute department immediately. Provide your bank with your cancellation confirmation, refund request, and proof of ongoing charges. Your bank can reverse unauthorized transactions and issue a chargeback against Altresume's merchant account, which sends a serious signal that you dispute the charge. This process typically takes 10-15 working days.
Seeking legal advice for large claims
If Altresume has overcharged you substantially or failed to refund a significant amount, you may pursue a claim through the Small Claims Court (for claims under R15,000) or the Magistrate's Court. Yafee recommends consulting a consumer law attorney for claims exceeding R5,000, as legal costs may be recoverable if you win. Many attorneys offer free initial consultations and can advise whether your claim is strong.
Comparing Altresume with alternative resume builders
Before you cancel, consider whether an alternative platform better serves your needs and whether switching justifies your cancellation costs.
| Platform |
Pricing (ZAR) |
Templates |
South African support |
Recommendation |
| Altresume |
R79-R199/month |
100+ |
Unknown |
Cancel if no South African support |
| Canva |
Free or R99/month |
1,000+ |
Yes (Johannesburg office) |
Better value and local support |
| CV Maker |
Free or R50/month |
50+ |
Yes |
Excellent free option |
| Indeed Resume |
Free |
10+ |
Yes |
Free and integrated with job search |
| Microsoft Word templates |
Free (if you own Office) |
20+ |
Yes |
Professional and cost-free |
If you are cancelling Altresume due to cost, Canva and CV Maker offer comparable or superior functionality at lower or no cost. Yafee recommends evaluating these alternatives before cancelling, ensuring you do not switch to a platform that frustrates you further. If you have already tested alternatives and confirmed a better fit, proceed with cancellation confident that your move improves your situation.
Protecting yourself: a pre-cancellation checklist
Before you cancel Altresume, ensure you have taken steps to protect your data and confirm your cancellation will succeed.
- Download or export any resumes you have created within Altresume to your computer or email (in case the service deletes them post-cancellation)
- Take screenshots of your account settings showing your subscription tier, renewal date, and billing history
- Note the exact date you purchased your subscription (for 14-day cooling-off calculations)
- Confirm which platform you subscribed through: Google Play, Apple App Store, or Altresume website
- Review your bank statement to identify the exact charge name and amount
- Open a new email folder labelled "Altresume Cancellation" and save all future correspondence there
- If cancelling via email, use a service providing read receipts (Gmail, Outlook, or certified mail services)
- Calculate your cancellation date to ensure it falls within 14 days of purchase if you want a full refund
Yafee has conducted extensive research and found no confirmed South African mailing address or contact centre for Altresume. This absence of local support is itself a red flag when evaluating whether cancellation is urgent. Here is what we know:
- Altresume's primary support channel is through in-app messaging or email support
- No confirmed physical address in South Africa has been identified
- Subscriptions are managed through Google Play, Apple App Store, or a third-party payment processor
- If you must contact Altresume directly, attempt support through your subscription platform's help system first (Google Play or Apple App Store)
The lack of a South African business address means Altresume may operate as a foreign entity serving South Africa without a local agent. Under the Consumer Protection Act, foreign service providers remain bound by South African consumer law and can be pursued through the National Consumer Commission. If you are unsure whether Altresume is properly registered to trade in South Africa, raise this with the NCC as part of your complaint.
Final steps and next actions
Cancelling Altresume protects you from unwanted recurring charges and restores control over your finances. You have now learned your rights under South African consumer law, identified your correct cancellation method, and understood what happens after you cancel.
Your next step is immediate action: identify which platform hosts your Altresume subscription (Google Play, Apple App Store, or website), follow the procedure outlined in this guide, and save your cancellation confirmation. If you are within 14 days of purchase, request a refund promptly. If Altresume refuses to cancel or refund unfairly, escalate to the National Consumer Commission without delay.
At Yafee, we have helped thousands of South African consumers cancel unwanted subscriptions and recover money they should never have lost. Whether you are dealing with Altresume or any other SaaS platform, Yafee provides step-by-step guidance grounded in consumer law and executed with precision. Visit Yafee today to explore cancellation support for any subscription service.