Ink usage monitoring questions if I decide to cancel subscription

[Tuckerdognc]

MAC OS Sequoia is the operating system in 2025. So, after all the hurdles and hoops to get here, here are my questions: 
1. I've had the printer since 2022. I just got a new black cartridge last month. So, I've paid approximately $190 into the system, more or less. For two ink cartridges. 

2. I understand that if I cancel the subscription, HP no longer monitors ink usage. Does the monitor on the printer itself, however, continue to show usage? Or do I simply go to the system preferences to check? 

3. The Automatron said I can no longer use the ink cartridges that are designed for monitoring the usage. And, I totally expect an automotron answer to this question, but I'd like some thoughts from humans. What happens if I don't replace the cartridge right away? Does the printer stop working? 

4. The cartridges are $21 and $22 apiece. After three years and only going through one color and two blacks, does anyone here think it makes any sense to continue this subscription? 

Thanks. I look forward to seeing the answers if there isn't some other hurdle to jump in order to see them. 

[Kuroi_Kenshi · Accepted solution]

Hi @Tuckerdognc,

Welcome to the HP Support Community! 

Thanks for reaching out about your query regarding Ink Usage Monitoring and Subscription Cancellation!

We're thrilled to have the opportunity to assist you and provide a solution.

When using HP's Instant Ink subscription service, your printer communicates with HP to monitor ink levels and send replacement cartridges as needed. If you decide to cancel your subscription, here are some considerations regarding ink usage monitoring:

Existing Ink Cartridges: After canceling your subscription, any Instant Ink cartridges you have must be returned to HP, as they are part of their property under the subscription model. You'll need to purchase standard retail ink cartridges to continue using your printer.

Ink Usage Monitoring: Once you cancel the subscription, the printer will no longer communicate with HP for ink usage monitoring. However, your printer still retains internal mechanisms to monitor ink levels using any standard retail cartridges you install.

Printer Monitoring: After cancellation, the printer's built-in monitoring system continues to function effectively. It will show ink levels directly on the printer's control panel or via the HP Smart software on your Mac, allowing you to track remaining ink regardless of any subscription service.

Savings and Costs: Evaluate your ink usage patterns to determine if the subscription costs align with your needs or if purchasing cartridges as needed is more cost-effective.

Returning to Instant Ink: If you later decide to rejoin the Instant Ink program, you can enroll again at any time, choosing from various plan options that best fit your printing habits.

I hope this helps.

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Best regards,

[Tuckerdognc]

Thank you but I traded it in for a Epson printer that will do fine and offers more for the money. I paid an absurd amount of money for the ink subscription and when I discovered all this nonsense that was the end. And, I also understand the scanner would also stop working. Sadly, since communicating with HP is a nightmare, I just didn’t want to have to wait too long to get answers. Sales people don’t even know answers, you can’t get past the virtually worthless assistant, no one can talk to you even if you are a customer, lame upselling. Done. Thanks for getting back to me too late.