Glossary · Platform
What is the App Store Small Business Program?
Small Business Program (15%)
The App Store Small Business Program is an Apple program that reduces the commission on paid apps and in-app purchases to 15%. Developers qualify if their proceeds across all their apps were up to $1 million USD in the prior calendar year, or if they are new to the App Store. If proceeds pass $1 million in the current year, the standard rate applies to later sales.
You enroll as the Account Holder: accept the latest Paid Applications agreement in App Store Connect and list every Associated Developer Account, so Apple can add up the proceeds of related accounts. The new rate applies fifteen days after the end of the fiscal month in which Apple approves your enrollment. If you cross the threshold in a year, the standard commission applies to future sales, and you can re-qualify the year after your proceeds fall back under $1 million.
For subscriptions the program changes less than it first seems. Without it, you receive 70% of the subscription price (minus taxes) in a subscriber's first year of paid service, and 85% after the subscriber has accumulated one year of paid service. Members of the Small Business Program receive 85% from the first billing cycle, whether or not the subscription has reached a year of paid service.
Google Play sets its service fees separately and updates them by region, so read its service fee page for the current rates rather than assuming they match Apple's.
Sources: Apple: App Store Small Business Program · Apple: Auto-renewable subscriptions · Play Console Help: Service fees
FAQ
Small Business Program (15%): questions people ask
What is the revenue limit for the Small Business Program?
$1 million USD in proceeds in the prior calendar year across all your apps and associated accounts. New developers can qualify too.
What happens if I pass $1 million?
The standard commission applies to future sales in that calendar year. You can re-qualify for the 15% rate in a later year when your proceeds are back under the threshold.
Is enrollment automatic?
No. The Account Holder enrolls in App Store Connect and lists associated developer accounts.
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