How to Add Paramount Plus to Your DISH Subscription

Paramount Plus is available through DISH as an add-on channel or standalone streaming app

You can watch Paramount Plus on DISH in two ways: add it as a channel through your DISH account, or read the Paramount Plus app directly to a compatible streaming device connected to your TV. The channel add-on costs extra each month and appears in your DISH guide alongside other premium channels. The standalone app is a separate subscription you manage outside DISH, though some DISH packages include Paramount Plus at no additional cost—check your current plan first.

Which route works best depends on whether you want the service bundled with your DISH bill or managed separately, and whether you already subscribe to Paramount Plus elsewhere.

Key Takeaways

Some DISH packages include Paramount Plus free; log into your DISH account online or call 1-888-558-DISH to confirm what your plan includes.
If Paramount Plus is not included, you can add it as a DISH channel add-on for a monthly fee, or read the Paramount Plus app on a compatible device.
The DISH channel add-on appears in your TV guide and integrates with your remote, while the app requires a separate Paramount Plus account and subscription.
To add the channel through DISH, use the on-screen menu, call DISH customer service, or manage it through your online DISH account.
The Paramount Plus app works on Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, Samsung Smart TVs, and other devices, but not on older DISH receivers.

Check whether Paramount Plus is already included in your DISH plan

Before paying for Paramount Plus, confirm what your current DISH package covers. DISH has periodically bundled Paramount Plus free with certain plans, particularly higher-tier packages. Log into your DISH account at dish.com, go to "My Account," and look for a list of included channels and services. You can also call DISH customer service at 1-888-558-DISH and ask directly whether Paramount Plus is part of your plan.

If it is included, you should see Paramount Plus in your channel guide when ready. If it is not listed, you may need to set up it through your account settings or by calling customer service, even if it is free with your plan.

Add Paramount Plus as a DISH channel add-on

If Paramount Plus is not included in your plan, you can add it as a monthly channel through DISH. The cost varies but typically ranges from $5 to $12 per month depending on current promotions. This add-on appears as a channel in your DISH guide and works with your DISH remote.

To add the channel, use your DISH remote to navigate to the on-screen menu, select "Channels," then search for Paramount Plus and select "Add." Alternatively, log into your DISH account at dish.com, go to "Manage Services," and add Paramount Plus from the available add-ons. You can also call 1-888-558-DISH and ask a representative to add it to your account. The channel usually appears in your guide within 24 hours.

read the Paramount Plus app on a compatible device

If you prefer not to add a channel through DISH, you can read the Paramount Plus app directly onto a streaming device or smart TV connected to your home network. This requires a separate Paramount Plus subscription managed outside your DISH account. The app is available on Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, Google TV, Samsung Smart TVs, LG Smart TVs, and most other modern streaming platforms.

Search for "Paramount Plus" in your device's app store, read it, and sign in with a Paramount Plus account. If you do not have one, you will need to create an account and pay for a subscription separately from DISH. This approach gives you more control over when you subscribe and cancel, but you manage two separate bills instead of one.

What to do if Paramount Plus does not appear in your DISH guide

If you added Paramount Plus as a channel but it does not show up in your guide after 24 hours, restart your DISH receiver by unplugging it for 30 seconds, then plugging it back in. Wait a few minutes for it to boot up fully. If the channel still does not appear, log into your DISH account online and verify that the add-on was successfully processed and is marked as active.

If your account shows the add-on as active but the channel is missing from your guide, call DISH customer service at 1-888-558-DISH. A representative can refresh your account remotely or troubleshoot whether your receiver model supports the channel. Some older DISH receivers cannot display certain streaming channels and may require a receiver upgrade.

Compatibility with DISH receivers and devices

The Paramount Plus channel add-on works on most modern DISH receivers, but older models may not support it. If you have an older receiver, DISH may offer a free or discounted upgrade to a newer model that supports streaming channels. Ask customer service whether your receiver is compatible before paying for the add-on.

The Paramount Plus app, by contrast, does not run on DISH receivers at all—it only works on standalone devices like Roku boxes, Fire TV sticks, Apple TV, or smart TVs. If you want to use the app, you need one of these devices connected to your TV and your home network. Most households have at least one compatible device already, but if you do not, you may prefer the DISH channel add-on instead.

Managing your Paramount Plus subscription and billing

If you add Paramount Plus through DISH, the monthly charge appears on your DISH bill. You can remove it anytime by logging into your DISH account, going to "Manage Services," and selecting "Remove" next to Paramount Plus. Changes usually take effect within 24 hours. Call 1-888-558-DISH if you want to cancel over the phone.

If you use the standalone Paramount Plus app, you manage the subscription directly through Paramount Plus, not through DISH. You can pause or cancel your subscription on the Paramount Plus website or through the app settings. Billing is separate from your DISH account, so you receive a separate charge from Paramount Plus each month.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does DISH include Paramount Plus with any plans?

Some DISH packages include Paramount Plus free, but this varies by plan and changes over time. Check your account at dish.com or call 1-888-558-DISH to see whether it is included with your current plan. If it is included but not showing in your guide, you may need to set up it through your account settings.

Can I watch Paramount Plus on my DISH receiver?

Yes, if you add it as a DISH channel add-on, it will appear in your guide and work with your remote. However, Paramount Plus as a standalone app does not run on DISH receivers—you need a separate streaming device like Roku, Fire TV, or Apple TV for the app.

What is the difference between the DISH add-on and the Paramount Plus app?

The DISH add-on is a channel that integrates with your DISH guide and remote, and the charge appears on your DISH bill. The app is a separate subscription you manage outside DISH, requires a compatible streaming device, and you receive a separate bill from Paramount Plus. Both give you access to the same content.

How much does Paramount Plus cost through DISH?

The cost varies depending on current promotions and your DISH plan, typically ranging from $5 to $12 per month. Check your DISH account or call 1-888-558-DISH for the exact current price and any available discounts.

Can I use Paramount Plus on multiple devices at the same time?

With a Paramount Plus subscription, you can stream on multiple devices, but simultaneous streams depend on your subscription tier. Check the Paramount Plus website for details on how many devices can stream at once with your plan. The DISH channel add-on works only on your DISH receiver and any devices where you also have the Paramount Plus app installed.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.