What you get with a Reader's Digest subscription

A Reader's Digest subscription delivers the print magazine to your mailbox each month, or gives you access to digital content through their website and app, depending on which plan you choose. The magazine contains articles on health, personal finance, humor, true crime, and lifestyle topics, along with puzzles and reader-submitted stories. Most subscriptions run for one year, though some publishers offer shorter terms or multi-year discounts.

The cost and renewal terms depend on which subscription option you select and whether you're a new or returning subscriber. Prices fluctuate based on promotional offers, so what you pay in one month may differ from what someone else pays in another. You can usually pause, cancel, or modify your subscription through your account online, though the process and any associated fees vary by how you purchased it.

Key Takeaways

  • Reader's Digest offers both print and digital subscriptions, with different pricing and access levels for each format.
  • You can subscribe directly through Reader's Digest or through third-party retailers, and the cancellation process differs depending on where you bought it.
  • Promotional pricing is common for new subscribers, but your renewal rate may be higher unless you actively seek a lower rate before renewing.
  • Most subscriptions auto-renew unless you cancel before the renewal date, so check your account regularly to avoid unexpected charges.

Where to subscribe and what each option costs

You can subscribe directly through Reader's Digest's website, through their customer service phone line, or through third-party subscription retailers like Amazon, Walmart, or magazine subscription services. Each route has different pricing, renewal terms, and cancellation procedures. Direct subscriptions through Reader's Digest typically offer the most control over your account, while third-party retailers may bundle discounts or offer different payment options.

Print subscriptions generally cost more than digital-only subscriptions because of printing and mailing expenses. The exact price depends on current promotions and your location. Digital subscriptions provide immediate access to articles and archives but do not include the physical magazine. Some subscribers choose a combination plan that includes both formats.

How auto-renewal works and when to cancel

Most Reader's Digest subscriptions renew automatically at the end of your term unless you cancel beforehand. Your payment method on file will be charged for the renewal, often at a different rate than your introductory price. The renewal notice typically arrives by email or mail several weeks before your subscription ends, giving you time to decide whether to continue.

To cancel, log into your account on the Reader's Digest website if you subscribed directly, or contact their customer service team by phone or email. If you subscribed through a third party, you may need to cancel through that retailer's website instead. Keep your confirmation email or order number handy, as you may need it to locate your account. Cancellations are usually processed immediately, though you may retain access through the end of your paid term.

What happens if you want to pause or change your subscription

Some subscription plans allow you to pause delivery for a set period without canceling entirely, which preserves your account and renewal terms. This option is useful if you're traveling or temporarily don't want magazines arriving. Contact Reader's Digest directly to ask whether a pause is available for your specific subscription type and how long you can pause.

You can also upgrade or downgrade your subscription — for example, switching from print to digital only, or adding a digital subscription to an existing print one. Changes typically take effect at your next renewal, though some may apply immediately depending on your plan. Log into your account or call customer service to explore what modifications are available.

Protecting yourself from billing issues

Keep your subscription confirmation email and note your renewal date on a calendar. Check your credit card or bank statement around the renewal date to confirm the charge matches what you expected. If you see an unexpected charge or a price higher than you anticipated, contact Reader's Digest customer service with your order number and the charge details.

If you subscribed through a third party and want to cancel, do so through that retailer's website or customer service, not through Reader's Digest directly — canceling in the wrong place may leave your subscription active and your payment method charged. If you've moved and want to update your mailing address for print delivery, do this through your account at least two weeks before your next issue ships to avoid missed deliveries.

What to do if you have a problem with your subscription

If magazines don't arrive, your digital access stops working, or you're charged incorrectly, contact Reader's Digest customer service with your subscription number and the specific issue. They can investigate missing deliveries, resend digital login credentials, or review unexpected charges. Response times vary, but most issues are resolved within one to two weeks.

If you subscribed through a third party and the retailer's customer service cannot resolve the problem, you may need to contact Reader's Digest directly with proof of your purchase. Keep all confirmation emails and receipts in case you need to dispute a charge with your credit card company or bank.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a refund if I cancel my subscription early?

Refund policies vary depending on where you subscribed and how long you've had the subscription. Direct subscriptions through Reader's Digest may offer a prorated refund if you cancel within a certain window, while third-party retailers have their own policies. Contact the seller where you purchased it to ask about their refund terms.

What if I want to give a Reader's Digest subscription as a gift?

Reader's Digest offers gift subscriptions through their website, which you can purchase for someone else and have start on a date you choose. Gift subscriptions typically come with a gift announcement card. The recipient will receive renewal notices when the gift term ends, and they can manage the subscription through their own account.

Can I change my subscription from print to digital or vice versa?

Yes, you can usually switch formats by logging into your account or contacting customer service. The change may take effect at your next renewal, or it may apply immediately depending on your plan. You may be charged a different rate for the new format, so ask about pricing before you confirm the change.

What happens if my payment method is declined at renewal?

Reader's Digest will typically attempt to charge your payment method multiple times over several days. If all attempts fail, your subscription will be suspended or canceled. Update your payment information in your account as soon as possible to prevent interruption, or contact customer service to provide a new card.

Do I need to create an account to subscribe?

Yes, you'll need to create an account or provide an email address to set up a subscription. This allows you to manage your subscription online, update your address, and receive renewal notices. If you subscribed through a third party, you may also need an account with that retailer.