Regarding Patreon's Billing Policy (Or: My Hatred of Apple is Justified)

Hey, lovelies.

As I'm sure some of you are aware, there are changes coming to Patreon's billing process over the coming months.

For those of you not aware, here's what's happening:

Effective in November 2024, any patrons who sign up through the iOS version of the app will see 30% of their pledges going to Apple as it's a requirement for any subscription-based app through their store. 

This will not affect current patrons. However, if anyone is considering pledging after November, I urge you to do so through a web browser (I would also say if you're on android, you're good, but honestly I wouldn't trust anything outside of the web platform at this point.)

This is a pretty scummy move, right? Well brace yourselves; it gets scummier. Current creators on the platform, such as myself, will be forced to switch to a subscription-only billing system no thanks to Apple's policies. Currently, you are only charged at the 1st of the month. I personally feel this is easier to keep up with, and for me it's easier for me to budget for merchandise orders/expenses. However, this change will mean I will have to get my earnings through subscription.

What does that mean? Subscription billing is based on when the patron signed up. For example, if Patron A signed up on August 20th, they will be charged on that day. If Patron B signed up August 30th, they will be charged that day, as opposed to everyone being charged on the 1st.

I am not a fan of this model. Thankfully I will not be forced until it until November 2025.

Will I continue to be on Patreon? That I'm not sure. I'll be honest, I'm pissed off that Apple is doing this (as if I didn't have enough reason to hate them). I'm also very displeased with Patreon for deciding rather than foot the cost, they're passing it on to you, the subscriber--they're punishing you for the Apple fee if you so choose to subscribe via iOS. I have been unhappy with Patreon for sometime, and am currently exploring other avenues, such as ko-fi.

I'm going to be spending the next few months weighing my options and figuring out what is more viable. I'd also appreciate your feedback on the matter as this decision affects you, as well.

Thank you as always for your support. I'm sorry this platform disrespects you and me.