Editing How downgrades work

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'''Navigation:''' [[Main_Page]] > [[Billing]] > How downgrades work

== How Downgrades Work ==

ActiveCampaign understands that your needs can change over time, which is why we offer the flexibility to downgrade your account. Being able to adjust your plan allows you to align your subscription with your current usage, budget, and preferences. This article will explain how downgrades work, outline the steps to downgrade, and provide tips for managing your account effectively.

=== Introduction ===

Downgrading an account in ActiveCampaign is straightforward and allows you to modify your subscription to better suit your evolving needs. Whether you're looking to decrease your number of contacts, reduce your user seats, or limit your monthly email sends, adjusting your plan ensures that you’re only paying for what you genuinely use. Understanding this process is crucial in maximizing the value you derive from your ActiveCampaign plan.

=== How to Access This Feature ===

To downgrade your ActiveCampaign account, you need to be logged in as a Primary Admin or a user with purchase permissions. Only these user roles have the capability to initiate a downgrade.

=== Step-by-Step Instructions ===

Here's how to downgrade the number of contacts, user seats, and monthly email sends in your ActiveCampaign account:

# Log in to your ActiveCampaign account.
# Click on your profile icon located in the top right corner of the dashboard.
# Select '''Billing & Upgrade''' from the dropdown menu.
# Find the section for contacts, user seats, and/or monthly email sends, and click the '''Edit''' button next to the appropriate item.
# A modal window will appear. Here, you can input your desired adjustments.
# Confirm your changes to finalize the downgrade.

It’s important to note that downgrades will take effect at the beginning of your next billing cycle, and you will be charged a new rate accordingly.

=== Configuration Options and Settings ===

ActiveCampaign allows you to downgrade the following configuration options:

* '''Number of contacts''': If your subscriber list has decreased, you can lower the tier of your plan to reflect the current number of users you maintain.
* '''Number of user seats''': If your team has shrunk or if you no longer need as many user accounts, you can reduce the number of user seats.
* '''Number of email sends''': If you find yourself sending fewer emails, you can adjust this to decrease your costs.

Additionally, if you wish to remove an add-on or downgrade your plan tier, you must contact our Customer Experience team for assistance.

=== Best Practices and Tips ===

1. **Review Your Usage Regularly**: Regularly assess your account activity to ensure you're on the appropriate plan for your needs.
   
2. **Keep Team Members Informed**: Notify your team of any changes made to the account to avoid confusion about available resources.

3. **Contact Support**: If you're unsure about the best plan for your needs or face issues while downgrading, do not hesitate to reach out to the Customer Experience team.

4. **Plan Your Downgrade Timing**: To avoid interruption, plan to downgrade right before the beginning of a new billing cycle.

=== Common Use Cases with Examples ===

* **Reducing Overhead**: If your team numbers decrease significantly, downgrading the number of user seats can help control costs effectively.
* **Optimizing Email Strategy**: If you've shifted to a more targeted email strategy with a smaller audience, reducing the allowed number of email sends to keep expenses in check is a practical move.
* **Managing Seasonal Changes**: For businesses that experience fluctuations, such as seasonal workflows, adjusting the number of contacts and user seats during slower periods lets you optimize spending.

=== Troubleshooting Section ===

If you encounter any issues while attempting to downgrade, consider the following troubleshooting tips:

* Ensure you are logged in as either a Primary Admin or a user with purchase permissions. Only these roles have the ability to initiate a downgrade.
* If you see options that appear grayed out or unavailable, it may be a limitation based on your current plan or account status. In this case, reach out to our Customer Experience team for clarification and further assistance.

=== Related Features ===

To learn more about related topics, you might find the following articles useful:

* [[Billing]]
* [[Plans and Pricing]]
* [[Subscription Management]]

=== FAQ ===

'''Q1: Can anyone downgrade our ActiveCampaign account?'''
A1: No, only Primary Admins and users with purchase permissions can perform a downgrade on the account.

'''Q2: How long does a downgrade take to process?'''
A2: Downgrades take effect at the beginning of your next billing cycle.

'''Q3: What happens to our data after a downgrade?'''
A3: Your data will remain intact, but your account will be subject to the limits of the new plan tier.

'''Q4: Can I downgrade if I'm currently within a billing cycle?'''
A4: Yes, but the changes will not take effect until your next billing cycle begins.

'''Q5: What should I do if I cannot self-serve my downgrade?'''
A5: Contact our Customer Experience team for assistance if self-service options are unavailable.

'''Q6: Are there any fees associated with downgrading my plan?'''
A6: There are no specific fees for downgrading, but your new rate will apply starting the following billing cycle.

'''Q7: Can I upgrade again after downgrading?'''
A7: Yes, you can upgrade your account at any time by following the appropriate procedures.

By familiarizing yourself with these steps and frequently asked questions, you'll be better equipped to manage your ActiveCampaign account efficiently.
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