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How to Cancel Ancestry

£21.99/mo
Medium
high retention chance

Quick Answer

To cancel Ancestry, go to ancestry.co.uk and sign in. Then click your name in the top right, then "account settings". You may be offered a discount to stay — very likely based on community reports.

Step-by-Step Cancellation

1

Log in to Ancestry

Go to ancestry.co.uk and sign in.

2

Go to Account Settings

Click your name in the top right, then "Account Settings".

3

Click Subscription

Click "Subscription" then "Cancel Subscription".

4

Survive the retention flow

Ancestry will offer multiple discounts and alternatives. Click through all offers to complete cancellation.

Cancellation Scripts

cancel_script.md
YOU:
Hi, I'd like to cancel my Ancestry subscription please.

AGENT:
I'm sorry to hear that. May I ask why you're cancelling?

YOU:
It's become too expensive for what I use. I need to cut my monthly costs.

// Say you've completed your research. Ancestry will often offer 50% off or a free extension.

IF OFFERED A DEAL:
That sounds interesting — can you confirm the exact terms and how long the discount lasts?

IF NO DEAL OFFERED:
I understand. Please go ahead and process the cancellation. Can you confirm when my access ends?
Adapt to your Ancestry conversation
⚠ Know Their Tactics

Watch out for these dark patterns when cancelling Ancestry:

Multiple retention offers before you can actually cancel

Warns you'll lose access to your family tree (but you can export it first)

Emotional messaging about losing connection to your ancestors

Ancestry Price History

+69%
2019-06£16.99
2021-09£19.99
2024-01£21.99
View full price history →

Alternatives to Ancestry

Alternatives to Ancestry

FamilySearch.org (free, run by LDS Church)

Free alternative

FindMyPast free records

Free alternative

FreeBMD

Free alternative

Genuki

Free alternative

National Archives online

Free alternative

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I lose my family tree if I cancel Ancestry?

No, your family tree remains on Ancestry and is still viewable. You lose access to search records and hints, but your tree data stays.

Can I download my Ancestry tree before cancelling?

Yes, export your tree as a GEDCOM file from Tree Settings > Manage Your Tree > Export Tree. This works with other genealogy software.

Is FamilySearch really free?

Yes, FamilySearch.org is completely free and has billions of records. It's run by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as a public service.

Can I get a cheaper Ancestry plan?

Yes, the UK-only plan (£12.99/month) is cheaper than the World plan (£21.99/month). Consider downgrading if you only research UK records.

Does Ancestry offer a free trial?

Ancestry occasionally offers 14-day free trials. Remember to cancel before the trial ends to avoid being charged.

Save Money on Other Subscriptions

Browse cancellation offers from other services or share your own experience.