I ran out of my free month a week ago as well, and made 7 failed attempts at paying the subscription by my credit card (ERROR 406). Like you guys I've also been billed $1+ per "failed" attempt, and I have been using the same card for groceries, bills, etc.

I really like FFXIV, but this payment drama is a big turn-off (what is so difficult with setting up a simple internet transaction found on countless other websites??) Plus it seems like a very common problem that should be fixed (but ignored).

I might try fiddling around with PayPal and Crysta, but I'm so disappointed at the sloppy system that I've abstained from trying this past week and gone back to playing WoW. (Never had any issues with payment for WoW on their website all these years...)

Seriously, what gives??