Blinking hp instant ink issue?

[hunt0629]

Have a question why my blinking light for cartridges is not allowing to print.    Is it because I don’t have subscription with HP?

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

Hi @hunt0629,

Welcome to the HP Support Community!

Thanks for reaching out!

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

I understand your HP printer’s cartridge light is blinking, and it’s preventing printing. Let’s go through why this happens and how to resolve it.

a. Check the Meaning of the Blinking Light

On HP printers, a blinking ink/cartridge light usually indicates one of the following:

Low or empty ink cartridge

Cartridge not installed correctly

Cartridge not recognized (wrong type or defective)

b. Verify Cartridge Installation

Open the ink cartridge access door.

Remove the cartridges and check for:

Protective tape removed

Proper seating in the slot (click into place)

Reinsert cartridges firmly and close the door.

c. Check Subscription Status

HP Instant Ink subscription is not required to print if you have genuine HP cartridges installed.

If you’re using an Instant Ink cartridge without an active subscription, the printer may block printing and show a blinking light.

To confirm, open the HP Smart app or go to HP Instant Ink Account and check subscription status.

d. Replace or Reset Cartridges

If the cartridges are genuine but the light still blinks:

Try removing and reinserting them

If that doesn’t work, test with a new genuine cartridge

Sometimes a printer restart is needed after replacing cartridges.

e. Check Firmware/Software Updates

Go to Settings → Printer Maintenance → Update Printer to ensure the latest firmware is installed.

HP sometimes releases updates to resolve cartridge recognition issues.

I hope this helps.

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Best regards,