How to Appeal an App Store Rejection: Step-by-Step
An app store rejection does not always mean something is wrong with your app. Reviewers make mistakes, misunderstand functionality, and sometimes apply the wrong guideline. When you believe your rejection is incorrect, a well-structured appeal can get it overturned.
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Deciding Whether to Appeal
Appeal when: the reviewer misunderstood your app's functionality, the cited guideline does not apply to your situation, you have evidence of compliance that the reviewer may have missed, or the reviewer's description of the issue does not match your app's actual behavior. Do not appeal when: the reviewer correctly identified a real violation, even if you think the rule is unfair. Fix the issue and resubmit instead.
Structuring Your Appeal
An effective appeal includes: 1) Reference the exact guideline cited in the rejection, 2) Explain specifically why you believe your app complies, 3) Provide evidence (screenshots, videos, links to the feature in question), 4) If the reviewer's test conditions could have affected results, explain this, and 5) Be factual and professional. Avoid emotional language or accusations. Focus on demonstrating compliance.
After the Appeal
Apple typically responds to Resolution Center appeals in 24-48 hours. If denied, you can escalate to the App Review Board. Google appeal responses take 2-14 days. While waiting, you can continue working on fixes and resubmit separately. Both platforms allow simultaneous appeal and resubmission.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often do appeals succeed?
Success rates are not published, but appeals with clear evidence of compliance succeed regularly. The key is providing specific evidence, not just disagreeing with the decision.
Will appealing hurt my developer account?
No. Legitimate appeals are part of the process and do not negatively impact your account standing. Both platforms encourage developers to appeal when they believe a rejection is incorrect.
Can I appeal and resubmit at the same time?
Yes. On both platforms, you can submit an appeal while simultaneously resubmitting a fixed version. The appeal resolves the original rejection while the new submission enters a fresh review.
Related Resources
Guide to appealing App Store and Google Play rejections. When to appeal, how to write an effective appeal, and what to expect.
My App Got Rejected - What Now?Your app got rejected from the App Store or Google Play. Here is a step-by-step plan to fix the issue and get approved quickly.
How to Fix App Store RejectionStep-by-step guide to fixing any app store rejection. Diagnose the problem, implement the fix, and verify compliance before resubmitting.
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