Will I lose YouTube Music access if I cancel Premium?

Yes, YouTube Music Premium is included with YouTube Premium. Canceling removes ad-free music streaming and offline downloads.

Can I keep background play after canceling YouTube Premium?

No, background play and offline downloads are Premium-only features. You revert to the standard ad-supported YouTube experience.

How do I cancel YouTube Premium if I subscribed through my phone?

If subscribed via Google Play or Apple App Store, cancel through your phone settings under Subscriptions, not through YouTube directly.

How to Cancel YouTube Premium (2026)

YouTube Premium plans start from $7.99/month. Follow our 4-step guide to cancel your subscription in about 3 minutes — with tips to avoid retention offers.

Updated: March 2026

from ZAR 49.99/month

EasyYou save ZAR 599.88/year by cancelling

Estimated Time:3 minutes

Cancel Method:Website

Open Memberships

Go to youtube.com/paid_memberships while signed in

Manage Membership

Click Manage membership next to YouTube Premium

Deactivate

Click Deactivate and select a reason

Confirm

Click Continue to Cancel, then confirm. Access continues until the billing period ends

Retention Tips

YouTube may offer 1-3 months at a reduced rate or a free trial extension. They sometimes suggest the cheaper YouTube Music-only plan. If you subscribed through Apple/Google Play, you must cancel through that platform instead.