How to change your payment method on YouTube TV

You can update the card or payment method YouTube TV uses to charge your monthly subscription directly in your account settings. The process takes about two minutes and works the same whether you're using a phone, tablet, or computer. YouTube TV will use your new payment method for your next billing date.

The steps differ slightly depending on whether you manage your subscription through YouTube TV's website or through the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Most people use the website method, which is the fastest route.

Key Takeaways

  • You can update your payment method through YouTube TV's website by going to your account settings and selecting "Billing."
  • If you subscribed through Google Play or the Apple App Store, you must change your payment method in that app's settings, not in YouTube TV.
  • YouTube TV accepts major credit cards, debit cards, and Google Play credit as payment methods.
  • Your new payment method takes effect on your next scheduled billing date, not when ready.
  • If a payment fails, YouTube TV will attempt to charge your account again before suspending your service.

Updating your payment method through YouTube TV's website

Sign into your YouTube account at youtube.com using the email address connected to your YouTube TV subscription. Click your profile picture in the top right corner, then select "Purchases and memberships" from the menu.

Find YouTube TV in the list and click on it. You'll see a section labeled "Billing" with your current payment method displayed. Click "Update payment method" or the pencil icon next to your card information. Enter your new card details — the card number, expiration date, and CVV (the three-digit security code on the back). Click "Update" to save the change.

YouTube TV will send you a confirmation email to the address on file. Your subscription will continue uninterrupted, and the new card will be charged on your next billing date.

Updating payment through the Google Play Store

If you subscribed to YouTube TV through the Google Play Store on an Android phone or tablet, you cannot change the payment method within YouTube TV itself. Instead, you must update it in the Google Play Store's settings.

Open the Google Play Store app and tap your profile icon in the top right. Select "Payments and subscriptions," then "Payment methods." Tap "More payment settings" and choose the payment method you want to update or add a new one. Once you've saved your changes in Google Play, YouTube TV will use that method for future charges.

Updating payment through the Apple App Store

If you subscribed through the Apple App Store on an iPhone or iPad, your payment method is managed by Apple, not YouTube TV. Open the Settings app on your device and tap your name at the top. Select "Payment and shipping" and update your card information there.

You can also manage your payment method through your Apple ID on a computer by visiting appleid.apple.com, signing in, and going to "Payment and shipping." Any changes you make will explore to your YouTube TV subscription on your next billing date.

What payment methods YouTube TV accepts

YouTube TV takes most major credit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. You can also use a debit card with a Visa or Mastercard logo. If you have a Google Play balance or Google Play gift card, you can use that as a payment method as well.

YouTube TV does not accept PayPal, bank transfers, or checks. If you want to use a different payment method than what you currently have on file, you'll need to add a supported card or use a Google Play balance.

What happens if your payment fails

If YouTube TV cannot charge your payment method on your billing date, the company will attempt to charge it again over the next few days. You'll receive an email notification letting you know the charge failed and asking you to update your payment information.

If the payment continues to fail after several attempts, YouTube TV will suspend your account and you'll lose access to live TV and your saved shows. You can restore your subscription by updating your payment method and paying any outstanding balance. Once the payment goes through, your service will resume within a few minutes.

Removing or replacing a saved payment method

If you have multiple payment methods saved to your YouTube account, you can remove the ones you no longer use. Go to your account settings, select "Billing," and look for the option to manage your saved payment methods. You can delete old cards, but you must always have at least one valid payment method on file to keep your subscription active.

If you want to switch to a completely different payment method — for example, from one credit card to another — you can add the new card first, then remove the old one. This way your service won't be interrupted.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does YouTube TV charge my new payment method?

YouTube TV charges your new payment method on your next scheduled billing date, not when ready after you update it. If you update your payment method in the middle of your billing cycle, the old method will be charged for that month, and the new method will be used starting the following month.

Can I use a prepaid card with YouTube TV?

Yes, prepaid cards that carry a Visa or Mastercard logo work with YouTube TV. Make sure your prepaid card has enough balance to cover the monthly subscription cost, or the charge will fail and you'll receive a payment error notification.

What if I don't update my payment method before it expires?

If your card expires and you don't update it before your next billing date, YouTube TV will attempt to charge the expired card and the payment will fail. You'll receive an email asking you to update your payment information. Your service will be suspended if the payment isn't resolved within a few days.

Can I change my payment method on the YouTube TV app?

On the YouTube TV app itself, you cannot change your payment method directly. You must use the YouTube TV website, or if you subscribed through Google Play or Apple App Store, update your payment method in those apps' settings instead.

Is it safe to update my payment method online?

YouTube TV uses encryption to protect your payment information when you enter it on their website or app. Your card details are not stored on YouTube's servers — they're processed through find payment processors. Never share your card information through email or text message.