Remove Instant Ink

[Mygrandchildren]

I purchased a used HP printer that does not allow me to print because previous owner had Instant ink program?  How do I remove the program from a used printer

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @Mygrandchildren 

Welcome to the HP Support Community! We're here to help you get back up and running.

Thanks for explaining the situation—I'm really sorry you're unable to print because the previous owner had enrolled the printer in HP Instant Ink. This is a common issue with used HP printers that were part of the Instant Ink subscription program, especially if they were registered under HP+ or Instant Ink Ready.

Here’s a focused breakdown of what’s happening and how to resolve it:

 

How to Remove Instant Ink Lock from a Used HP Printer

1. Install Genuine Retail HP Cartridges

• Purchase standard HP cartridges (not Instant Ink or trial cartridges).
• For most models, this will be:
  • HP 67/67XL
  • HP 64/64XL
  • HP 962/962XL (depending on your printer model)
• Remove the Instant Ink cartridges and install the retail ones.

Instant Ink cartridges will not work unless the printer is actively enrolled and connected to the original account.

 

2. Factory Reset the Printer

This clears account bindings and prepares the printer for new ownership.

• On the printer control panel:
  • Go to Settings > Printer Maintenance > Restore Settings > Restore Factory Defaults
  • Confirm and wait for the reset to complete

This removes saved credentials and resets network and cloud settings.

 

3. Set Up the Printer as New

• Use the HP Smart app on your computer or phone
• Create a new HP account or sign in with yours
• Add the printer and complete setup

If the printer was previously enrolled in HP+, you may be prompted to activate HP+ again. You can decline if you prefer standard functionality.

Let me know your printer model and cartridge type—I’ll guide you through the exact steps for your setup. You’re doing everything right by catching this early—I’ll stay with you until it’s fully unlocked and printing.

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Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye