Wix Policies Explained: Free Plan, Costs & Rules

Thinking about building a site on Wix? Before you click “Create,” it helps to know what the platform’s policies actually mean for you. From the advertised free tier to the fine‑print on upgrades, understanding these rules can save you time, money, and headaches.

What the Free Plan Actually Gives You

Wix’s free plan lets you launch a site without paying a dime, but it comes with a Wix sub‑domain (yourname.wixsite.com) and Wix branding on every page. You also get limited bandwidth and storage – enough for a simple portfolio or hobby blog, but not for high‑traffic projects. If you need a custom domain, e‑commerce tools, or removal of ads, you’ll have to upgrade to a paid tier.

Upgrade options are billed monthly or annually, and the price jumps as you add features like online payments, extra storage, or professional email. The most common surprise is the “premium app” cost: many useful Wix apps have their own subscription fees that aren’t covered by the main plan.

Key Terms to Watch Out For

The Wix Terms of Service prohibit certain content types – adult material, copyrighted works without permission, and anything that violates local law. Violating these rules can lead to page removal or account suspension without a refund.

Another important clause is the “Data Retention” policy. If you cancel a paid plan, Wix may delete your site data after a grace period, so back up your content regularly. Also, Wix reserves the right to change pricing or features with notice, so keep an eye on your email for policy updates.

For e‑commerce users, the “Transaction Fee” policy matters. Wix charges a small percentage on sales made through its Payments system, even if you’re on a higher‑tier plan. You can avoid this by using third‑party gateways, but those may have their own fees.

Bottom line: the free plan is great for testing ideas, but once you start growing, read the fine print on upgrades, app costs, and content rules. Knowing the limits upfront helps you choose the right plan and avoid unexpected charges.