Why is my App Store repeatedly asking for billing information for free apps and charging my account?

You usually need a payment method in your Apple Account details, even for free apps, to update apps and to redownload apps.

When you update your billing information, Apple tests the payment method by making a temporary authorization hold for a small amount.

If your payment method is declined, then Apple won't allow you to use the account until the situation is rectified.

You need to find out from the issuer why the card is being declined or replace it with another functioning payment method.

You may need to speak to Apple Support to get your account reactivated.

Direct link to Apple Support options -

https://getsupport.apple.com/?caller=kbase&PGF=PGF63005&category_id=SC0245&symptom_id=23362

World-wide Apple Support -

Contact Apple Support - Apple Support

M1 Mac mini, macOS 15.4;  Watch, series 10 GPS-only, watchOS 11.4; iPhone 16, iOS 18.4; TV 4th Gen, tvOS 18.4 HomePods, audioOS 18.4 and Airport Express w/ Airplay 2

As it usually is, I'm sure there is much more to this story we aren't hearing!

Apple doesn't participate in the Apple Support Communities.

No one here can help with this problem because we don't have access to your account details. To resolve the issue, speak to Apple Support.

Direct link to Apple Support options -

https://getsupport.apple.com/?caller=kbase&PGF=PGF63005&category_id=SC0245&symptom_id=23362

World-wide Apple Support -

Contact Apple Support - Apple Support

YES!! It is doing the same exact thing to me. I added a card I have $0.50 on and for the last 2 days Apple is trying to charge me $18.99 for FREE apps. Until I let them take $18.99 when I have no active subscriptions, I cant download without giving them payment information. Feels like a scam.