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What Hidden YouTube TV Trick Could Save You Money This Year?
YouTube TV hit us with a $10 monthly price increase at the end of 2024, bringing the total to $82.99 per month. I understand how frustrating this feels when streaming costs keep climbing. The good news? YouTube TV is quietly offering some subscribers a way to get that $10 back each month for six months.
How I Found the Hidden Discount
YouTube TV learned from the backlash after their January price hike. They're now offering many subscribers a $10 monthly discount that brings your bill back down to $72.99 for six months. This saves you $60 total, which helps ease the sting of rising streaming costs.
The discount appears as a "gift" in your account settings, but it's buried where most people won't find it. Here's exactly how I check for it:
- Log into your YouTube TV account on a computer (this won't work on your TV or mobile app)
- Click your profile icon and select "Settings"
- Navigate to "Membership"
- Click "Manage" next to your Base Plan
- Look for "Get $10 off your current plan"
If you see this offer, click it immediately. The discount starts with your next billing cycle. After six months, your price returns to the full $82.99 monthly rate.
Who Gets This Deal?
I've noticed this discount appears for different types of subscribers. Some people already on promotional rates can still get it. Others paying full price also qualify. YouTube TV seems to be targeting subscribers who might cancel, especially those who previously threatened to leave.
The availability isn't universal. If you don't see the offer today, I recommend checking back every few weeks. YouTube TV appears to be rolling this out gradually.
Alternative Money-Saving Strategies
Try the Cancellation Method
If the hidden discount doesn't appear in your account, try starting the cancellation process. Don't actually cancel - just see if YouTube TV offers you a retention deal. Here's how:
- Go to Settings > Membership > Manage next to Base Plan
- Scroll down and select "Cancel"
- Watch for any discount offers during the process
- If nothing appears, simply don't complete the cancellation
Pause Your Service Strategically
YouTube TV allows you to pause service for up to eight weeks at a time without canceling entirely. This strategy works perfectly if you only watch during specific seasons like football or your favorite shows' premiere periods.
Pausing for two months saves you $166. Do this multiple times per year, and you'll keep over $330 in your pocket. The pause takes effect with your next billing cycle, so you won't lose money you've already paid.
Cut Unnecessary Add-Ons
Review your add-ons carefully. That 4K streaming upgrade might not be worth it if you rarely watch 4K content. Check if other streaming services you already pay for offer the same content. Many services now provide live sports, so you might be paying twice for identical programming.
Consider FAST Services
Free Ad-Supported Television (FAST) services offer many current shows and movies from cable networks at no cost. Yes, you'll watch ads - typically 4-5 minutes per half-hour show - but the savings add up quickly.
Your local news often streams free on YouTube. If you have YouTube Premium (much cheaper than YouTube TV), you get ad-free access to this content.
Why This Matters Now
Streaming services raised prices across the board in 2024. Every $10 increase feels significant when you're managing multiple subscriptions. YouTube TV recognizes they risk losing subscribers to competitors like Sling TV, FuboTV, and the upcoming ESPN/Fox streaming apps.
This discount feels like YouTube TV's preemptive move to retain customers during summer months when many people typically pause live TV services. They'd rather keep you at a reduced rate than lose you entirely.
My Bottom Line
I believe taking control of your streaming costs requires active management. Check your YouTube TV account settings monthly. Don't hesitate to pause service when you're not watching. Consider the cancellation method if you're comfortable with the risk.
The streaming landscape keeps changing, and prices keep rising. Companies like YouTube TV know they need to offer something to keep subscribers from jumping ship. This hidden discount proves they're willing to negotiate - you just need to know where to look.
Remember, you have options. Whether it's this discount, pausing service, or switching to alternatives, you don't have to accept every price increase without fighting back.