Rumours that Facebook plans to introduce a monthly subscription fee have been circulating online for years. Photo credit: One Artist/Shutterstock
Is Facebook About to Charge for Use?
Rumours that Facebook plans to introduce a monthly subscription fee have been circulating online for years. Posts warning that users will soon be locked out unless they pay often go viral, sparking widespread concern.
These claims have resurfaced more recently following the introduction of new subscription features by Meta, Facebook’s parent company. While it is true that Meta now offers paid services, the essential Facebook platform remains free, and there are no plans to force users to pay to connect with friends, share updates, or browse their feed.
Meta introduces new subscription options
Meta has unveiled two major services in recent years. The first is Meta Verified, a monthly subscription that provides a blue verification badge, improved account security, and priority customer support. Aimed at influencers, businesses, and frequent users, it costs around €12–15 per month.
The second is an ad-free subscription, currently available in Europe. This allows users to remove advertising from Facebook and Instagram entirely in exchange for a monthly fee. The change was introduced in response to European Union privacy regulations, ensuring Meta offers more transparency and choice around personal data.
Both services are optional. People who do not subscribe can continue using Facebook for free, supported by the advertising model that has always funded the platform.
Facebook still free despite rumours
Core features remain accessible at no cost
Meta has confirmed that the main functions of Facebook, posting photos, writing updates, joining groups, and messaging, will stay free. Advertising will continue to cover the costs for most users worldwide.
Paid features are optional upgrades
The subscription services act as add-ons rather than requirements. Users can choose:
- Stay on the free version with ads, just as before.
- Pay for an ad-free experience in Europe.
- Subscribe to Meta Verified for extra support and verification.
This tiered model means users have more choice, not fewer.
Key facts every user should know
To help separate fact from fiction, here are the essentials:
- Hoaxes are false: Posts claiming Facebook will charge all users a flat fee (e.g. €4.99 per month) are untrue.
- Free access continues: No one is forced to pay to keep their account active.
- Europe has unique rules: The ad-free subscription is linked to GDPR compliance, not a global shift to paid access.
- Meta Verified is optional: The service is designed for those who want verification and support, not everyday users.
Why the changes matter
Greater choice for European users
The ad-free option empowers users in the EU to control their experience. Those uncomfortable with targeted advertising now have an alternative, while others can continue as usual.
Addressing misinformation and user trust
Meta’s communication about these services is also intended to dispel long-standing myths. By being transparent, the company hopes to build confidence and show that Facebook’s free model is not being abandoned.
How to access new features
Signing up for subscriptions
For most people, no action is needed, Facebook remains free. But for those interested, the process is simple:
- Go to account settings on Facebook or Instagram.
- Choose either Meta Verified or the Ad-Free Subscription (where available).
- Review the monthly fee, usually €12–15, and complete registration.
Helpful resources
To avoid confusion, users should rely only on official channels:
- Meta Newsroom for company announcements.
- Facebook Help Center for practical guidance.
- European Data Protection Board for context on privacy laws.
The conclusion is straightforward: Facebook is not charging for access. Optional paid features exist, but the core service remains free for everyone.
