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    ApsaraDB RDS:Change from subscription to pay-as-you-go

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    ApsaraDB RDS:Change from subscription to pay-as-you-go

    Last Updated:Jun 16, 2026

    Switch the billing method of an ApsaraDB RDS instance from subscription to pay-as-you-go for greater flexibility and a refund for the unused subscription period. After the switch, ensure your account has a sufficient balance to prevent service disruptions from overdue payments.

    Prerequisites

    • The billing method of the instance is subscription. For more information, see Billable items.

    • The instance is in the Running state.

      Note

      If your subscription instance is locked due to expiration, you must renew the instance first. For more information, see Manual renewal.

    • If your instance uses a legacy instance type, you must change the instance type before you switch the billing method.

    Fees

    After you switch a subscription instance to pay-as-you-go, the refundable amount is returned to your original payment method.

    Refundable amount = Amount paid – Amount consumed, where:

    • Amount paid: The actual amount paid for the order, excluding coupons and vouchers.

    • Amount consumed: (Daily unit price) × (Usage duration) × (Discount for the usage duration).

    For detailed refund rules, see Refund rules for changing the billing method from subscription to pay-as-you-go.

    Impact

    This operation does not affect the running state of the instance.

    Note

    Consider your options carefully before you switch billing methods. If you plan to use the instance for a long time, we recommend keeping the subscription billing method. Subscription is more cost-effective than pay-as-you-go, and longer subscription periods offer greater discounts.

    Procedure

    1. Log on to the ApsaraDB RDS console. In the top navigation bar, select the target region, and then in the navigation pane on the left, click Instances.

    2. Find the target instance and use one of the following methods to open the Switch to Pay-as-you-go Billing page:

      • In the Billing Method column, click Change to Pay-As-You-Go.

      • Click the instance ID. In the Status section, click Change to Pay-As-You-Go to the right of Billing Method.

    3. Confirm the instance information, read and select the Terms of Service checkbox, and then click Pay Now.

    API reference

    API

    Description

    TransformDBInstancePayType

    Changes the billing method of an ApsaraDB RDS instance.

    FAQ

    Q: When I try to switch a subscription instance to pay-as-you-go, a "price inquiry failed" error message appears. What should I do?

    A: This issue typically occurs for the following reasons:

    • The instance is in a classic network, which does not support this operation. Switch the network type to a virtual private cloud (VPC) and then change the billing method.

    • If a pop-up message indicates the instance uses a legacy instance type, change the instance type to a current one and then retry the operation. For more information, see Legacy instance types.