In early 2019, Bitly launched a monthly subscription plan option and updated our free and Enterprise account offerings. In June, we added a discounted annual subscription as well. The details of each plan are available on our plan page.
We’ve compiled these questions to help customers who already had Bitly accounts understand the changes:
What is the new subscription plan?
New plans are listed on our pricing page. As you upgrade, each plan includes more features and higher link limits. Some of the paid-plan features include:
- Redirecting links to another destination.
- Exporting reports for your link data.
- Creating links that land in a mobile app, aka mobile deep links.
- Organizing links into campaigns.
- Importing links in bulk and adding UTM parameters.
How did the changes affect existing free accounts?
The new plans have lower monthly limits than those of our original free account, and users with preexisting free accounts had their link limits decreased in 2019. We contacted users affected by this change with details.
You can check your current link usage and limits by signing in to your account, clicking the profile menu, and selecting Organization Settings.
Free users can no longer add new custom domains to Bitly.
Why did Bitly add a new paid plan?
Many of our customers told us they would like to have advanced features at an affordable price. Up until recently, all paid-plan features were only offered in an Enterprise plan for larger brands.
By creating more subscription tiers, we’re giving the entrepreneurs and smaller brands relying on Bitly a way to choose a plan that’s right for you. This gives you access to more features, higher link limits, and room to upgrade as your business grows.
How do the new Bitly subscriptions work?
Customers with a free Bitly account now have the opportunity to upgrade to a paid plan. When you upgrade, you will have access to more features. You can see what’s included with each plan on our plan page.
How do I upgrade or lower my plan?
You can upgrade your plan or downgrade to a free account at any time by logging into your account and choosing an option on the pricing page.
For Enterprise plans, contact us to customize a plan to fit your needs.
How did the changes affect existing customers with Enterprise accounts?
Enterprise accounts are not affected by the new plans.
How will Bitly bill for the these plans?
Bitly will charge your credit card once a month--or per year, for annual plans--starting on the day you upgrade your account. You can cancel at any time and continue using Bitly for the remainder of the current billing period. You cannot receive a refund for any unused portion of your subscription.
Is there a free trial?
We do not offer a free trial, but you can cancel your subscription at any time and continue using Bitly for the remainder of the current billing period. You cannot receive a refund for any unused portion of your subscription.
Will customers with free accounts lose data?
The number of links free accounts are allowed each month was reduced in 2019, but they did not lose any existing data when the new plan took effect. Customers on the free plan received an email from Bitly explaining how long they can continue using the original free account limits.
Can customers with a free account upgrade?
The new plans have lower monthly limits than the original free account, so we sent all free users an email explaining how long they could continue using their free account with the original limits.
You can subscribe now from the pricing page.
If you choose to upgrade, you can later lower your plan to the new Free plan, with the limits that are lower than those on your original free account.
Which features and limits are available with each plan?
The full details are available on our plan page.
Will Bitly continue to offer a free account?
Yes, we will continue to offer a free account option under the Free plan. This account has lower monthly link limits than the original free account.
Will Bitly issue a refund if I upgrade and then change my mind?
As per our terms of service, Bitly does not issue refunds. You can cancel at any time and continue using Bitly for the remainder of the billing period. You will not receive a refund for any unused portion of your subscription.
Can I pay by check or other forms of payment?
Bitly charges by credit card on a monthly or annual basis for most plans. For Enterprise plans, contact us to discuss customized plan and payment options.
I haven’t been using Bitly. Can I delete my account?
Yes, but keep in mind that all of your data will be permanently deleted. Check out this help article to learn how to delete your account.