Do Bitly QR Codes Expire?
If you are using Bitly for printed marketing, you need to understand exactly when and why your codes might stop working.
How Bitly Redirects Work
Bitly QR codes are dynamic by default. This means they don't point to your website directly; they point to Bitly's servers first.
The Short Answer:
It depends on your account. Because every scan passes through Bitly first, your printed codes keep working only as long as Bitly keeps redirecting them. If a trial ends or a paid plan lapses, codes tied to paid features can stop sending people to your page.
When the Subscription Ends
- Free trials often convert to $35/mo plans automatically.
- Downgrading or cancelling can disable codes that rely on paid features.
- Plan limits can affect codes in the middle of a campaign.
The Real Cost of "Free" Bitly Codes
Over a 5-year project lifespan, the difference is staggering.
Bitly Core Plan
*billed annually ($96/yr)
Lifetime QR Codes
One-time payment
Bitly Exit Strategy
If you are already stuck in a Bitly subscription, here is how to get out safely.
1. Audit Your Prints
Check every business card, flyer, and billboard. If a QR code is Bitly-powered, it is "rented" real estate. Those prints depend on you keeping that subscription.
2. Switch to Static for Basics
For links that will never change (like your homepage), use a static QR code. These are free and can never be disabled by any company because the URL is baked into the image.
3. Use Lifetime Dynamic for Campaigns
If you need to change the link later (e.g., for seasonal promos), use our one-time payment dynamic QR code. You pay once and edit the destination whenever you like, with no monthly fee for the code.
Bitly QR Code FAQs
Does a Bitly QR code expire?
It depends on your plan. Scans pass through Bitly first, so the code works only while Bitly keeps it active for your account. Check Bitly's current terms for your plan.
How long does a Bitly QR code last?
As long as Bitly keeps it active for your account. A static QR code lasts as long as the page it points to exists.
Why did my Bitly QR code stop working?
The usual causes are an ended or downgraded plan, a disabled or deleted link, or a destination page that was removed.
How can I tell if my QR code was made with Bitly?
Point your phone camera at the code and read the link preview before you open it. If the link starts with bit.ly, or with a custom short domain set up in Bitly, every scan is redirected through your Bitly account.
Do static QR codes expire?
No. A static QR code stores the destination URL directly in the printed pattern, so no company can switch it off. It only stops working if the page it points to is moved or removed.
Can I move a Bitly QR code to another provider?
Not the printed code itself. The pattern contains a Bitly short link, so only Bitly controls where it goes. While your account is active you can point that link at a page you control, but leaving Bitly completely means printing new codes.
What happens to Lifetime QR Codes if the service ever shuts down?
We don't anticipate it, but we plan for it: you get 120 days' notice, your redirects and hosted content stay online for 10 more years, and you can export all your data.
Is a lifetime QR code really a one-time payment?
Yes. A dynamic QR code costs $49 once, with volume discounts on larger packs. There is no monthly fee for your codes; only optional add-ons such as a custom domain are billed separately.
Stop Paying for Links.
Switch from monthly subscriptions to lifetime QR codes you pay for once.
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