AppClose ended its free tier on January 1, 2026. If you were relying on it — or you’ve just been told you need it — you now have two routes to avoid paying $7.99/month (web) or $8.99 (in-app): the AppClose fee waiver, or a genuinely free app that doesn’t require one at all.
This guide covers how the AppClose fee waiver works, who qualifies, and why Larkling 🐦 is the free alternative that skips the paperwork entirely.
Why AppClose Now Costs Money
For over a decade AppClose was the free co-parenting app. On January 1, 2026 that changed: it moved to a single all-inclusive subscription. Current pricing:
| Plan | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 60-day free trial | £0 | No credit card, then paid |
| Web subscription | $7.99/month | Cheaper than in-app |
| In-app subscription | $8.99/month | Apple/Google billing |
| Prepaid annual / 2-year | $83.88 / $143.76 | Web only |
Because billing is per account, two parents often end up paying twice — unless one covers the other or both qualify for waivers. See the full AppClose alternatives 2026 guide.
How the AppClose Fee Waiver Works
AppClose provides fee waivers to parents who can’t afford a subscription. Approved waivers grant full, unlimited access to every feature — the same as paying subscribers. Key facts:
- Who qualifies: financial hardship, survivors of domestic violence, and active military or disabled veterans.
- How to apply (general): use the Fee Waiver Application at
web.appclose.com/feewaiver. - How to apply (DV survivors): email
support@appclose.comwith the primary email on your account — or have an attorney or legal services organisation apply on your behalf. - How long it lasts: waivers are typically one-year renewable.
- What it covers: your account only — your co-parent needs their own subscription or waiver to fully participate.
Larkling — Free Without the Waiver Application
Here’s the part AppClose won’t tell you: you don’t have to apply for anything to get free, reliable co-parenting tools. Larkling was built to be free forever — it’s not a trial, not a hardship scheme, not a 60-day teaser. There’s no credit card, no application, and no one decides whether you “qualify.”
| Feature | AppClose (paid) | 🐦 Larkling (free) |
|---|---|---|
| Non-editable messaging | ✅ | ✅ Free |
| Shared custody calendar | ✅ | ✅ Free |
| Expense tracking | ✅ | ✅ Free |
| AI tone coaching | ❌ None | ✅ Free Tier Coach checks |
| Document vault | ✅ | ✅ Free |
| Pricing | $7.99+/mo per account | Free forever (Premium £6.99/family optional) |
The only catch with Larkling is the one that matters least: it’s not the same US-centric brand courts have heard of for a decade. But courts value reliable records, not specific brands — and Larkling’s non-editable, timestamped, exportable messages serve the same purpose. Read our records guide for what matters.
How to Decide
- If a court order names AppClose specifically — you may need to comply or vary the order. Apply for the fee waiver if you qualify, and consult your solicitor.
- If your order says “AppClose or similar” — Larkling qualifies as the similar option, and it’s free.
- If you’re choosing fresh — skip the waiver paperwork and start free on Larkling.
Get Larkling — Free Forever 🐦
Non-editable messaging, shared calendar, expense tracking, document vault, and AI tone coaching — no application, no credit card, no means test. Premium is £6.99/month for the whole family, not per parent.
Get Larkling FreeFrequently Asked Questions
Is AppClose free in 2026?
No. AppClose ended its free tier on January 1, 2026. It now costs $7.99/month on the web or $8.99 in-app, after a 60-day free trial. Free access exists only through the fee waiver for those who qualify.
How do I apply for an AppClose fee waiver?
General hardship applicants use the Fee Waiver Application at web.appclose.com/feewaiver. Domestic violence survivors can email support@appclose.com with the primary account email, or have an attorney or legal services organisation apply on their behalf.
Who qualifies for the AppClose fee waiver?
Parents in financial hardship, survivors of domestic violence, and active military or disabled veterans. Eligibility is reviewed individually and waivers are typically one-year renewable.
Is there a free app that doesn't need a waiver?
Yes — Larkling. It has a genuinely free forever plan with no application, no credit card, and no means-testing. Both parents can message free, and premium is £6.99/month for the whole family.
Does the fee waiver cover both parents?
No — a waiver applies to your account only. Your co-parent needs their own subscription or waiver to fully participate, which is another reason a genuinely free app is simpler.
Further reading: AppClose Alternatives 2026 | The Free Co-Parenting App | AI Co-Parenting Tools 2026 | Larkling Blog