All paid tiers offer both monthly and annual billing. This article covers when each makes sense.
The discount
Annual plans typically save 15-20% compared to 12 months of monthly billing. Exact discount varies by tier — check the pricing page for current numbers.
When monthly makes sense
- You’re new and want to try the platform with low commitment
- You’re between projects and unsure if you’ll stay engaged
- You prefer the cash-flow flexibility of smaller monthly charges
- You want maximum optionality to change tiers as your needs evolve
When annual makes sense
- You’re confident the platform is part of your long-term toolkit
- You want the discount
- You’d rather not see a charge every month
- You’re claiming the cost as a business expense and want a single annual entry
- You’re committed to building presence over the year (e.g. book launching, event circuit)
Annual plans use the same 7-day refund window as monthly plans. After 7 days, you can’t get a partial refund for unused months. So if you cancel an annual plan in month 7, you keep the service through month 12 but don’t get money back for months 8-12.
Switching between billing cycles
Switching from monthly to annual: takes effect at the end of your current month. The annual charge starts the next billing cycle.
Switching from annual to monthly: takes effect at the end of your annual period. No partial-year switches.
What about lifetime?
The Smile Channel doesn’t offer lifetime plans. The platform is continuously developed — new features, performance improvements, member benefits — and a one-time payment doesn’t fund ongoing development. Annual plans are the most committed option available.