Apple has announced a new policy affecting Patreon creators, requiring them to transition to the App Store’s in-app purchase system by November 1, 2026. As a result, Apple will take a 30% commission on subscriptions—reduced to 15% after one year—by categorizing creator payments as digital goods.
Creators on Patreon have the option to increase prices within the iOS app to account for the fee or to absorb the cost themselves. Alternatively, users can bypass this commission by subscribing directly through Patreon’s website.
Currently, 96% of Patreon creators have already moved away from the legacy billing system. For the remaining 4% still using the older model, this policy represents the third billing-related change within 18 months. The deadline was initially set for November 2025 but was paused following Patreon’s integration of web payment links, influenced by the Epic v. Apple ruling.
Patreon has criticized Apple’s shifting policies, highlighting the uncertainty they pose to creators who are building long-term business plans. To assist with the transition, Patreon is developing migration tools, including features for benefit eligibility tracking, tier repricing, and discounts.

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Apple mandates Patreon creators switch to App Store in-app purchases by November 2026, taking a 30% commission (15% after year one) on subscriptions. Creators can raise iOS app prices, absorb costs, or direct users to subscribe via Patreon's website. This affects the remaining 4% of creators still on legacy billing, marking the third billing change in 18 months. Patreon criticizes the policy uncertainty and is building migration tools to help creators transition.

Apple Enforces In-App Purchases for Patreon Creators by 2026