I cannot get my HP Printer to print: Problem with HP account

[JPT2028]

I’m having trouble getting my HP printer to work. I keep getting an error message stating that the printer cannot print because of an issue with my HP account.  My initial thought was that it could be an issue my HP instant ink but upon checking the HP smart app on my  laptop, I cannot find any error message. I then realized that there was not message about a cartidge problem. I’m wondering if this could be an issue that another (previous) owner is still registered to printer and won’t allow me to print. Thanks in advance for the help! 

[Garp_senchau]

@JPT2028, Welcome to HP Support Community,

Thank you for posting your query; I’m here to help by guiding you through steps to resolve this issue

It definitely sounds like there could be some account-related or registration issues tied to the printer, especially if it's a second-hand printer. Sometimes, previous owners may leave the printer linked to their HP account, which could prevent you from fully utilizing the printer and accessing features like HP Instant Ink or even standard printing.

Let’s go through some steps to troubleshoot and hopefully resolve the issue:

Remove the Printer from the Previous Owner's HP Account

If the printer is still linked to a previous owner’s HP account, they may need to remove it from their account. If you’re in contact with them, ask them to do the following:

Log into their HP account at HP Smart.

Go to the My Devices section and remove the printer.

OR: If you cannot contact the previous owner, you might need to perform a factory reset on the printer, which can unlink it from the previous account.

Factory Reset the Printer

A factory reset will remove all previous settings, including any prior accounts linked to the printer. This should help clear any account-related issues and allow you to set up the printer under your own HP account.

You may refer to this guide to factory default your unit: Restore factory defaults on your HP printer | HP® Support

Re-Register the Printer under Your HP Account

After performing the factory reset, you'll need to set the printer up again through the HP Smart app:

Open the HP Smart app on your laptop.

Click on + Add Printer and follow the prompts to add the printer to your account.

If the printer has HP Instant Ink enabled, you should be able to connect your Instant Ink subscription once it's registered.

Make sure to sign in with your HP account while setting it up so it gets linked to your account properly.

5. Check the Instant Ink Subscription

If your printer is enrolled in HP Instant Ink, ensure that your subscription is active and tied to your account:

Go to HP Instant Ink from the HP Smart app or online at HP Instant Ink.

Verify that your printer is listed and the account is in good standing.

I hope this helps.

Please feel free to reply here if you have any questions or if you need further clarification on any of the steps. 

Take care and have a good day. 

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Regards,