Quote Originally Posted by Jojoya View Post
Normally it is charged at the same time as your game subscription (both are charged to my credit card in a single transaction). The exception would be when you first set up the paid retainer service. Then there's a prorated charge to cover the time until the next subscription billing period.

Did you cancel the retainer subscription at some point and you're now trying to reactivate them? I can't figure out why you wouldn't be able to access them if you can get into the game (unless you're benefiting from some sort of free log-in period).
if you just pay the sub fee, you can get into the game but not the extra retainers.

If you go through steam the entire process is a bit... wonky.. to say the least