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- HP Community
- Apps, Services & Software
- HP Instant Ink
- I just want to print without joining the Instant Ink Program

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10-07-2024 08:39 AM
I have the exact same question as another user, but in the response from HP support, they moved it to private messaging! I want the answer to this dilemma. I do not want to be part of the instant ink program, I just want to buy ink from the store when I want on my own terms. I understand how the instant ink program works with a defined number of pages per month. Here is the previous author's original query:
"I would like to be able to simply print without being enrolled in the Instant Ink Program. I cancelled because too often we were having issues with the wifi and were getting odd messages. It would take forever to have to log in, work through "reconnecting" the printer to the computer through the Smart App just to do a simpe printing of one page. Now that I've cancelled the service , I can't print anything. Why does HP have to control the use of a printer I bought and paid for? If there's no way for me to use the printer without a subscription, it's going in the garbage and I'll buy a different one I can use when I want to.
I understand how the Instant Ink program works, but I didn't realize there was no option with this printer. We hardly ever print, but now and then things come up where we need to print a whole lot. There's no way of knowing when or how much. What happens if ink runs out when I need to print a massive amount all in one day? I'm in a situation where if the ink runs out, I don't have time to wait. I would prefer to go to the store and buy what I need when I need it. I am an older generation, I don't like having everything in the cloud. I just want to be able to use my computer and printer without having to sign into everything. "
Please enlighten me on how I can get out of this program and just print from my printer (that I bought and paid for!) using materials I purchased myself on my own terms, in whatever quantity of pages I want to print whenever I want.
10-08-2024 07:27 AM
Hi @aaakeith,
Welcome to HP Support Community.
Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.
To use your HP printer without being enrolled in the Instant Ink program, follow these steps.
- Cancel Instant Ink Subscription: Since you’ve already canceled the subscription, ensure that your printer settings reflect this change. You should be able to print without being tied to the Instant Ink program.
- Remove Instant Ink Cartridges: If you were using Instant Ink cartridges, they may have a chip that requires the printer to recognize the subscription. You’ll need to replace them with regular cartridges that you purchase from a store. Make sure to buy cartridges that are compatible with your printer model.
- Set Printer to Local Mode: Make sure your printer is set to operate in local mode. If it’s connected to Wi-Fi, disconnect it from the internet or disable Wi-Fi Direct. This will prevent the printer from attempting to connect to the Instant Ink program.
- Install Regular Ink Cartridges: Install the standard cartridges you’ve purchased. This should allow you to print without being part of the Instant Ink program.
- Update Printer Settings: Go to your printer's settings and check for any options related to Instant Ink. Ensure that any settings requiring a subscription are disabled.
- Restart Printer: After replacing the cartridges and changing settings, restart your printer to ensure the new configuration takes effect.
- Test Printing: Try printing a test page to confirm everything is working correctly.
Note:
- Some printers may still require an internet connection for certain features, but you should be able to print locally without issues.
By following these steps, you should be able to print using cartridges you purchase on your terms without being enrolled in the Instant Ink program.
I hope this helps.
Take care and have a good day.
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Alden4
HP Support
HP Support Community Moderator
03-23-2025 01:58 PM
So you are saying that i will have to use a printer cable from my computer to the printer so that i don't get a wifi error? I own my printer. I really had no idea i had to enroll in an ink plan just to use it, or i would not have purchased this printer. What a scam! I just received a cartridge. Now i have to pay to return it to you, along with the cartridge in my computer for which i paid and it still has ink. Is this correct??