Can we use the "free" version for 9 months and the fee version 3 months? We only take payment for a limited time each year.

Hello IBX,

Please be noted that you can use free plan for any number of months. The only thing you need to keep in mind that free plan has submission limits and your account usage should be within the submission limits.

You can upgrade your account only when you need it and the downgrade it anytime you think you will not have more usages. For example you can use free plan form January to September and then upgrade in October. You can then cancel your subscription in December.

The following guides should help you :

Upgrade your account:  http://www.jotform.com/help/331-How-to-upgrade-my-account 

Cancel subscription:  http://www.jotform.com/help/341-How-to-Downgrade-Subscription-back-to-Free-Account 

Hope this helps.

Do get back to us if you have any questions.

Thank you!