Taking a break: a temporary exit that doesn't break anything
We often cancel reflexively when a break would do the trick. Many services offer to suspend for a few weeks or months, without losing the account.
A break doesn't reset the clock
Suspending freezes the contract without breaking it. History, preferences, sometimes original price: everything remains in place. After a cancellation, resuming means paying the current price, usually higher, and everything needs to be reconfigured.
Where to suspend, and for how long
The option is hidden in the settings of your subscription area, next to the plan. Look for the maximum duration and the resumption date: at the end of the break, the service restarts automatically, including direct debits.
Break or switch to a lighter plan
When the need decreases but doesn't disappear, downgrading a level sometimes costs less than a break followed by a full-price resumption. Compare the price of the minimal plan with that of a possible paid break before deciding.
When a break isn't enough
Permanent停止, or a break that's too short for your needs: it's better to simply cancel. Suspending to buy time on a decision you've already made will just lead to you being re-billed when the service resumes.
Common questions
Does a break cost anything?
Most often no, but some services charge a small amount to keep the account open. This break fee should be checked before validating, otherwise the benefit of the operation may be negated.
What happens at the end of the break?
The service restarts automatically on the scheduled date, at the current rate, with direct debits resumed. If you don't intend to resume, it's better to cancel before this date than to extend the break.
Can you suspend multiple times?
Some services allow it within an annual limit, others only once a year. The rule is stated in the suspension terms, next to the maximum duration.