My ChatGPT Plus subscription via Google Play has not been activated

I’m reaching out here in the hope of finding some guidance or assistance from anyone familiar with Google Play and subscription-related issues.

The Issue:

I purchased a ChatGPT Plus subscription via Google Play on Jan 5, 2025, but the subscription has not been activated on my ChatGPT app. It’s been 6 days. Despite extensive communication with both Google Play support and OpenAI support, I am stuck in a loop with no resolution.

Details of the Case:

  1. Google Play’s Standpoint:
  • Google Play has denied my refund request, stating that the purchase falls under the app developer’s jurisdiction.
  • They claim to have no access to the subscription details as they only serve as a payment platform for third-party apps.
  • Upon asking for escalation details, the support team ended the chat without resolving my concerns.
  1. OpenAI Support’s Standpoint:
  • OpenAI has been responsive but unable to find any subscription linked to my account.
  • They’ve mentioned that they cannot process a refund as the subscription falls under Google Play’s jurisdiction.
  • They also suggested reaching out to Google Play for a refund, but Google Play has already refused.
  1. Relevant Details:
  • The email address used for the purchase on Google Play and the email address associated with my ChatGPT account are the same.
  • This is not my first subscription; I used ChatGPT Plus in 2024 (via Google Play Billing) for around 3-4 months with no issues.

Actions I’ve Taken:

  • Reached out to both Google Play support and OpenAI support multiple times.
  • Requested a formal letter or statement from OpenAI to assist with the refund process. OpenAI has stated they are unable to provide one.
  • Attempted all troubleshooting steps suggested by both parties.

How This Affects Me:

I cannot access the service I paid for or receive a refund. I was also considering upgrading to ChatGPT Pro, but with my money stuck and no resolution in sight, I’m hesitant to proceed further.

My Ask:

  • Has anyone faced similar issues with Google Play?
  • Are there any escalation paths that I can follow to resolve this issue?
  • Any advice on how OpenAI and Google Play might coordinate in such cases would also be helpful.
2 Likes

I’m in exactly the same situation. I had initially subscribed through the website. That first subscription lasted until the end of December 2024 (my intention was to try it for one month). In January, I made a second subscription, this time through Google Play. Now, I log in to ChatGPT using my Google account, but they don’t grant access to ChatGPT Plus.

Here’s the current situation: OpenAI doesn’t activate Plus because they can’t identify the payment; Google refused the refund, stating that the payment was processed normally and that I should request the refund from OpenAI; OpenAI’s support says the refund must be processed by Google. I keep trying to explain the situation to OpenAI’s support, but they don’t seem to understand the issue.

1 Like

same issue . how can i reach openai ?

1 Like

I am facing same issue, Just today i purchased chatgpt plus through google play but im not able to use it, again it is asking to upgrade to plus.

Same issue here. That’s shouldn’t happen at OpenAI / Android level