App Rejected for In-App Purchase: Common IAP Compliance Issues
In-app purchase rejections are the third most common reason for app store rejection. Apple and Google both have strict rules about how digital goods are sold, which payment system must be used, and how subscriptions must be presented. Here is what goes wrong and how to fix it.
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Mandatory Platform Billing
Apple requires all digital goods and services to use Apple's in-app purchase system. Google requires Google Play Billing for digital goods. Physical goods, person-to-person services, and certain exempted categories can use external payment. Getting this wrong is an automatic rejection. If your app sells digital content (premium features, virtual currency, subscriptions to digital services), you must use the platform's payment system.
Subscription Requirements
Subscription apps must: clearly display pricing before purchase, show the subscription terms (billing period, renewal price), explain how to cancel, include a restore purchases mechanism, and honor the platform's subscription management interface. Apple additionally requires a link to their subscription management page. Google requires clear disclosure of auto-renewal terms.
Restore Purchases
Both platforms require a way for users to restore previously purchased content, especially non-consumables and subscriptions. The restore button must be visible and functional. Apple specifically checks for this during review and will reject apps where restore is hidden, broken, or missing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Stripe or PayPal for in-app purchases?
Not for digital goods distributed through the app stores. Digital goods must use Apple IAP or Google Play Billing. Physical goods and services can use external payment systems.
What counts as a digital good?
Premium features, virtual currency, subscription content, removing ads, unlocking levels, and any content consumed within the app. Physical goods, ride-sharing, food delivery, and person-to-person services are exempt.
My restore purchases button is there but I was still rejected. Why?
The button must actually work during review. Ensure it restores test purchases in sandbox mode. Also check that it is easily discoverable, not hidden in a deep settings menu.
Related Resources
Complete guide to in-app purchase guidelines for Apple App Store and Google Play. IAP types, pricing rules, and compliance requirements.
Google Play Billing Policy GuideGuide to Google Play billing policy compliance. When Google Play Billing is required, exemptions, and how to implement correctly.
App Store Rejection ReasonsComplete list of App Store and Google Play rejection reasons. Learn why apps get rejected and how to prevent each rejection type.
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