This article is also available in:

Why Does the "Recurring Subtotal" Show a Higher Amount?

Why Does the "Recurring Subtotal" Show a Higher Amount?


The recurring charge displayed at checkout is generated by Shopify and there is a known visual issue on their end. Even though the amount may appear higher than expected, your customers will only be charged the correct total. This is purely a display issue and does not affect actual billing.


⚠️  Since Shopify fully manages the checkout interface, we do not have control over this display behavior. This affects all bundle and subscription apps equally.



Will Customers Be Charged the Wrong Amount?


No. The "Recurring subtotal" line is purely informational and does not determine what gets billed. Customers will always be charged the correct discounted bundle price on every recurring order.


✅  The correct discounted price is always applied at billing. ✅  The Recurring subtotal display has no impact on what is actually charged.



What Is the "?" Icon Next to the Recurring Subtotal?


Shopify has added a built-in tooltip next to the "Recurring subtotal" label to help clarify this for customers. When they hover over the "?" icon, they see the following message:


"Does not include shipping, tax, duties, or any applicable discounts."



Shopify placed this tooltip specifically to inform customers that the amount shown does not reflect their final discounted price. No additional action is needed from you as a merchant.


Can I Customize the "Recurring Subtotal" Label?


Shopify has restricted this customization for most merchants. Here is the current situation as of early 2026:


•       ❌ Not available. This customization was removed for non-Plus plans

•       Shopify Plus ✅ Available. Access to this setting via Online Store → Themes → Edit default theme content → search "Recurring".

Plan

Label Customization

How to Access

Shopify Plus

✅ Available

Access to this setting via Online Store → Themes → Edit default theme content → search "Recurring".

Standard Shopify

❌ Not available

This customization was removed for non-Plus plans



ℹ️ Want to stay informed? Follow the Shopify community thread dedicated to this topic: https://community.shopify.dev/t/recurring-subtotal-line-misleading-price-hurts-conversions/19104



Updated on: 07/03/2026

Was this article helpful?

Share your feedback

Cancel

Thank you!