How to Pause YouTube Premium

Keep your account without paying. Here's how to pause YouTube Premium for up to 90 days.

When to Pause

  • You plan to return within a few months
  • You want to keep your account data
  • You're on holiday or taking a break

When to Cancel

  • You don't plan to use YouTube Premium again
  • You want to trigger a retention offer
  • The pause duration isn't long enough

Pause Details

Maximum pause

90 days

Minimum pause

30 days

Cost during pause

Free

You can pause your membership for up to 3 months

What Happens During a Pause

  • Billing is suspended — you won't be charged
  • Your account and preferences are preserved
  • You won't have access to YouTube Premium content
  • Your subscription resumes automatically after the pause period

How to Pause

1

Go to 'Manage Membership'

2

Select 'Pause or cancel membership'

3

Choose 'Pause membership'

Pause YouTube Premium directly →

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you pause YouTube Premium?

Yes, YouTube Premium lets you pause your subscription for up to 90 days.

Do you still pay when YouTube Premium is paused?

No, billing is suspended while your YouTube Premium subscription is paused.

What happens to your account when you pause YouTube Premium?

Your account and preferences are preserved but you won't have access to content during the pause.

Is it better to pause or cancel YouTube Premium?

Pause if you plan to return soon. Cancel if you want to trigger a retention offer or won't use YouTube Premium for an extended period.