Tandem vs AppClose
Yes, at the entry level. Two parents on AppClose pay $167.76 to $197.98 a year. Tandem covers both parents for $119.88 to $203.88 ($167.88 to $275.88 in Canada) a year on yearly plans (checked October 2, 2026).
| Detail | Tandem | AppClose |
|---|---|---|
| Both parents, per year | $119.88 to $203.88 ($167.88 to $275.88 in Canada) | $167.76 to $197.98 |
| Billing | One price per family | Each parent pays |
| Pricing detail | $9.99 to $16.99 a month on yearly plans; monthly from $12.99 | Reported at $83.88 a year per parent on the web, $98.99 in the app. |
| Free tier | No | No (ended January 1, 2026) |
| Trial | 30 days, no card | 60 days (reported) |
Checked October 2, 2026. Source: Kidtime comparison, citing AppClose pricing. Competitor prices are as each company publishes them, and can change; check the source before deciding.
What AppClose is known for
- Formerly the free option in the category
What Tandem adds
Built around your agreement
Upload the parenting plan once: Tandem reads the schedule, holidays and splits, and expense requests quote the exact clause that applies.
One price, both parents
One subscription covers both parents, from $9.99 a month on a yearly plan.
Swaps and make-up time
Trade days with make-up time offered; the calendar updates for both parents when it's accepted.
Travel consent, border-ready
Consent in the app, printable letters, and every signed letter saved on your phone for offline use at the airport.
Blended families
Several families on one account, each kept separate. Partners, caregivers, teens and professionals see only what they should, and partners see the kids' details only with the other parent's agreement.
A calendar the kids can read
A printable, kid-friendly calendar of which home, switch days, holidays and trips, with nothing about money, messages or court.
Child support log
The paying parent records each payment and the other confirms it, so the balance is agreed.
Calm, documented messaging
Timestamped messages with first-viewed times, calmer rewrites and translation.
Questions
Is Tandem cheaper than AppClose?
Yes, at the entry level. Two parents on AppClose pay $167.76 to $197.98 a year. Tandem covers both parents for $119.88 to $203.88 ($167.88 to $275.88 in Canada) a year on yearly plans (checked October 2, 2026).
Does AppClose charge each parent?
Yes. AppClose prices per parent, so a two-parent family pays twice. Tandem charges one price per family.
Can I switch from AppClose to Tandem?
Yes. Download your records from AppClose as PDFs and add them to Tandem's Vault, then upload your parenting plan so Tandem builds your calendar. Your co-parent joins free with a six-letter code.