> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.realmacsoftware.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.realmacsoftware.com/squash/licensing-faq.md).

# Licensing FAQ

Help with Licensing Squash for Mac.

Licensing and updates depend on where you obtained Squash. The direct-download edition uses a Realmac licence; Setapp and Mac App Store editions manage purchases through their own stores.

### Is Squash free?

Yes. The **Free** version of Squash includes every feature, with no watermark on your images. The only limit is how many images you can export:

* **25 images** on the first day you use Squash.
* **5 images a day** after that. The allowance resets at midnight.

Previews, size estimates, descriptions, presets and settings never count towards the limit. Only image files Squash hands over count: exporting, exporting a single image, dragging an image out of Squash, copying a squashed image and Shortcuts actions.

A pill beside **Export Images** shows how many free images are left today, such as "3 of 5 free today". When a batch is bigger than what's left, the button reads, for example, **Export 3 of 12**, and Squash offers to export what's left of today's allowance or to unlock Squash. When none are left, the button reads **Unlock to Export** and the pill shows when the allowance resets.

[**Watched Folders**](/squash/quick-guide/watched-folders.md) is only available once Squash is unlocked.

Unlocking removes the limit. Choose **Squash → Unlock Squash…**, or click the free pill beside Export Images. The Setapp edition is always unlocked.

### How do I activate the direct-download edition?

Choose **Squash → Enter License…**, then **Activate License…** and enter the details from your purchase email. You can also click **Enter License…** in the Unlock Squash window.

**Enter License…** is available in the direct-download edition. Setapp does not use a Realmac activation code. If you are using a Mac App Store edition, use its purchase or restore controls with the Apple Account used for the purchase.

### I renewed my licence. Where do I enter the new details?

Make sure you have the latest build for your download channel, then open **Squash → Enter License…** and check the licence details.

If you have been given a new licence code to use:

1. Open the activation-management button in the licence window and deactivate the current licence on this Mac.
2. Choose **Activate License…**.
3. Enter your new licence details.

If the renewal is not recognised, email <support@realmacsoftware.com> with your purchase details.

### How do I fix an activation failure?

Check that your licence number is complete and copied exactly from the purchase email. An **Activation failure (404)** can occur when the code is incorrect or missing a character.

Update Squash for your download channel, then try activation again. If a previous licence is still active, manage it in the licence window (**Squash → Enter License…**) before entering the replacement code.

If it still fails, contact <support@realmacsoftware.com> and include the error message and your purchase email address.

### I cannot find my licence email

Check your spam folder for messages from Realmac Software or FastSpring. You can also use our [License Recovery page](https://www.realmacsoftware.com/support/license-manager/) with the email address you used for the purchase.

If you still need help, email support with your name, purchase email address, product and approximate purchase date.

### How do I manage renewals or cancel a subscription?

For direct purchases, use the [Billing Manager](https://realmac.onfastspring.com/account/) to view renewals, update payment details or cancel automatic renewal. You will need access to your purchase email address.

Subscriptions renew automatically unless cancelled. Cancelling leaves the current subscription period active until its next billing date. For Setapp or Mac App Store purchases, use that store's subscription management instead.

### Do you offer refunds?

Direct purchases of Squash have a **14-day money-back guarantee**. Email <support@realmacsoftware.com> within that period and include or forward your original receipt so we can find the order.

Purchases made through another store follow that store's refund process.

### I cannot restore a Mac App Store purchase

Check that you are signed in with the Apple Account used to purchase Squash and that the subscription is active in your App Store account. Restore from the app's purchase interface if that option is available.

For billing or refund questions about an App Store purchase, use Apple's purchase support. Contact Realmac support if the app still does not recognise an active purchase.

<details>

<summary>Squash 3 reference screenshots</summary>

These screenshots show the earlier Squash 3 interface.

![If you're seeing this error, ensure you're license number is correct.](https://1309898043-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F9hJwt9oZ5CYj9I9YIUa9%2Fuploads%2Fgit-blob-ff6e9cadd7fbd2ee5975034a38f1ab4ec1e980cb%2FCleanShot%202022-08-22%20at%2010.21.06%402x.png?alt=media)

</details>


---

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