How to Cancel Clear Membership: A Comprehensive Guide
To cancel your Clear membership, log into your account at my.clearme.com and select the ‘Cancel’ button in the Membership details section. This guide will walk you through the entire process, explore alternatives, and answer common questions about ending your Clear subscription.
Clear offers expedited security screening at airports and select venues across the United States. While many travelers find it useful, there are various reasons why you might want to cancel your membership. Whether it’s due to cost, limited availability, or changes in your travel habits, we’ve got you covered.
What is Clear Membership?
Clear is a service that uses biometric data to speed up identity verification at airport security checkpoints. Instead of waiting in long lines to show your ID and boarding pass, Clear members can use dedicated kiosks to scan their eyes or fingerprints.
Benefits of Clear Membership
Clear offers several perks for frequent travelers:
- Faster security screening
- Dedicated lanes at participating airports
- Identity verification using biometrics
- Access to some stadiums and venues
Clear vs. TSA PreCheck
While both services aim to speed up airport security, they work differently:
- Clear focuses on identity verification
- TSA PreCheck offers expedited physical screening
- You can use both services together for maximum efficiency
Reasons to Cancel Clear Membership
Despite its benefits, you might consider canceling your Clear membership for several reasons.
Cost considerations
At $189 per year, Clear is pricier than some alternatives. If you’re not a frequent traveler, the cost might outweigh the benefits.
Limited airport availability
Clear isn’t available at all airports. If your local or frequently visited airports don’t offer Clear, you might not get enough value from your membership.
Change in travel frequency
If your travel habits have changed and you’re flying less often, you might not need the expedited screening Clear provides.
Before You Cancel: Important Considerations
Before you hit that cancel button, there are a few things you should know.
Refund policy
Clear offers a prorated refund if you cancel within 60 days of being charged for your current term. After 60 days, you won’t get a refund, but your membership will remain active until the end of the billing period.
Cancellation deadlines
To avoid automatic renewal, submit your cancellation request at least 5 days before your next payment date.
Unused benefits
Remember, once you cancel, you’ll lose access to Clear lanes and other membership perks.
Step-by-Step Guide to Canceling Clear Membership
Ready to cancel? Here’s how to do it through various methods.
Canceling through the Clear website
- Go to my.clearme.com
- Log into your account
- Navigate to the Membership Details section
- Click the ‘Cancel’ button
- Follow the prompts to confirm your cancellation
Canceling via phone
If you prefer talking to a person:
- Call Clear at 1-855-CLEARME (253-2763)
- Tell the representative you want to cancel
- Provide your membership details
- Ask for a confirmation email
Canceling through email
You can also cancel by email:
- Write to memberservices@clearme.com
- Use “Cancel subscription” as the subject line
- Include your name and membership details
- Request cancellation and ask for confirmation
Canceling Clear Free Trial
Clear offers a two-month free trial for new members. Here’s what you need to know about canceling it.
Trial period details
The free trial lasts 60 days. If you don’t cancel before it ends, you’ll be charged the annual membership fee.
How to avoid automatic renewal
To avoid charges:
- Mark your calendar for a few days before the trial ends
- Follow the cancellation steps above
- Cancel at least 5 days before the trial expiration
What Happens After You Cancel Clear?
After canceling your Clear membership, a few things will change.
Access to Clear lanes
You’ll no longer be able to use Clear lanes at airports or venues once your cancellation is processed.
Biometric data removal
Clear states they’ll delete your biometric data after you cancel. However, it’s a good idea to follow up and confirm this has been done.
Alternatives to Clear Membership
If you’re canceling Clear but still want expedited security, consider these options.
TSA PreCheck
- Costs $78 for 5 years
- Available at over 200 airports
- Allows you to keep shoes on and laptops in bags
Global Entry
- Includes TSA PreCheck benefits
- Costs $100 for 5 years
- Expedites customs process when entering the US
Airport-specific programs
Some airports offer their own fast-track security programs. Check with your local airport for options.
Frequently Asked Questions About Canceling Clear
Let’s address some common queries about ending your Clear membership.
Can I get a refund after canceling?
You can get a prorated refund if you cancel within 60 days of being charged. After that, no refund is available.
How long does the cancellation process take?
Cancellation usually takes 1-2 days to process. Your membership remains active during this time.
Can I rejoin Clear after canceling?
Yes, you can sign up again at any time. However, you’ll need to go through the enrollment process and pay the current membership fee.
Tips for Maximizing Your Clear Membership
If you’re on the fence about canceling, consider these ways to get more value from Clear.
Family plan options
Clear offers discounted rates for family members. You can add up to 3 adults for $60 each per year.
Credit card partnerships
Some credit cards offer discounts or free Clear membership. Check if your cards have any Clear-related perks.
Clear Membership Costs and Payment Options
Understanding Clear’s pricing can help you decide whether to keep or cancel your membership.
Standard membership fees
The regular Clear membership costs $189 per year, billed annually.
Discounts and promotions
Clear often runs promotions, especially with airline partners. Delta and United frequent flyers can get discounted or free memberships.
Clear’s Privacy and Data Security Policies
Privacy is a crucial concern when it comes to biometric data. Here’s what you should know about Clear’s policies.
How Clear handles your biometric data
Clear uses encryption to protect your biometric information. They claim not to sell or share this data with third parties.
Data retention after cancellation
Clear states they delete your biometric data after you cancel. However, they may retain some non-biometric information for record-keeping purposes.
Future of Clear and Airport Security
As airport security evolves, so does Clear. Here’s what might be on the horizon.
Expanding services beyond airports
Clear is exploring uses for its technology in other sectors, like healthcare and event ticketing.
Upcoming features and improvements
Keep an eye out for new Clear features, such as integration with more travel apps and expanded airport coverage.
Clear Customer Support: Getting Help with Cancellation
If you need assistance canceling your membership, Clear offers several support options.
Contact methods
- Phone: 1-855-CLEARME (253-2763)
- Email: memberservices@clearme.com
- Chat: Available on Clear’s website
Best times to reach customer service
Clear’s customer service is available daily from 8 am to 9 pm Eastern Time. Avoid peak travel times for faster service.
Conclusion: Making the Right Decision About Your Clear Membership
Canceling your Clear membership is a personal decision based on your travel needs, budget, and preferences. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily end your subscription if that’s the right choice for you.
Remember to weigh the pros and cons, consider alternatives, and think about your future travel plans before making your final decision. Whether you choose to keep, cancel, or explore other options, the goal is to make your travel experience as smooth and stress-free as possible.
