YouTube TV does not include Paramount+ as part of its base subscription
YouTube TV's standard package gives you live TV channels, on-demand content from those channels, and access to YouTube's library. Paramount+ is a separate streaming service owned by Paramount Global, and it is not bundled into YouTube TV at any price tier. If you want both services, you pay for them separately.
YouTube TV does offer add-on channels you can purchase month-to-month — services like Max, Paramount+, Showtime, and others — but these are optional paid upgrades, not included benefits. The cost of each add-on varies and can change. You can add or remove them whenever you want without affecting your YouTube TV subscription.
Key Takeaways
- Paramount+ is not part of YouTube TV's base package and requires a separate subscription if you want to watch it.
- YouTube TV does offer Paramount+ as an optional add-on channel that you can purchase month-to-month for an additional fee.
- You can add or remove Paramount+ from your YouTube TV account at any time without canceling YouTube TV itself.
- YouTube TV's base package includes live broadcast and cable channels, plus on-demand content from those networks, but no premium streaming services by default.
How YouTube TV's Add-On Channels Work
YouTube TV lets you build your subscription by choosing which add-on services you want. When you log into your YouTube TV account, you can browse the add-ons available in your region and choose to subscribe to any of them. Each one appears as a separate line item on your bill, and you can cancel any add-on without touching your main YouTube TV subscription.
The add-on channels are billed through YouTube TV, so everything appears on one bill and one account. You do not need to create a separate Paramount+ account if you add it through YouTube TV — your YouTube TV login works for both. This is different from subscribing to Paramount+ directly through Paramount's website, where you would manage a separate account.
What Comes in YouTube TV's Base Package
YouTube TV's standard subscription includes over 100 live channels across news, sports, entertainment, and lifestyle categories. You get channels like ABC, NBC, CBS, Fox, ESPN, CNN, HGTV, Food Network, and many others depending on your location. You also get on-demand access to recent episodes and full seasons of shows from those networks, usually for several months after they air.
The base package also includes YouTube's own content library and access to YouTube Originals if you have YouTube Premium. Local channels vary by market, so the exact channel list depends on where you live. YouTube TV does not include premium movie channels like HBO, Showtime, or Starz by default — those are all add-ons you purchase separately.
Other Streaming Add-Ons Available Through YouTube TV
Beyond Paramount+, YouTube TV offers add-on subscriptions for Max (formerly HBO Max), Showtime, Starz, Cinemark Movie Club, and others. The list of available add-ons can vary by region and changes over time as YouTube TV adds or removes partnerships. You can see which add-ons are currently available by opening your YouTube TV account settings and looking at the add-ons section.
Each add-on has its own pricing and billing cycle. Some add-ons bill monthly, while others may offer different billing options. When you add a service, YouTube TV typically starts your subscription when ready and bills you on the same day each month. If you cancel an add-on mid-month, most services do not prorate — you lose access at the end of your current billing period.
How to Add Paramount+ to Your YouTube TV Account
To add Paramount+ through YouTube TV, open the YouTube TV app or website and go to your account settings. Look for the "Add-ons" or "Memberships" section — the exact name varies depending on your device. You should see Paramount+ listed if it is available in your region. Click on it, confirm the price, and complete the purchase. Your subscription begins when ready.
Once you have added Paramount+, you can watch it through the YouTube TV app on any device where you are signed into your YouTube TV account. You can also access Paramount+ directly through the Paramount+ app if you prefer, using the same login credentials. Canceling Paramount+ through YouTube TV is just as straightforward — go back to the add-ons section and select "Remove" or "Cancel."
Comparing YouTube TV Add-Ons to Direct Subscriptions
Buying Paramount+ through YouTube TV and buying it directly from Paramount work the same way in the end — you get access to the full Paramount+ library. The main difference is billing and account management. Through YouTube TV, everything is on one bill and one login. If you subscribe directly to Paramount+, you manage a separate account and receive a separate bill.
Some people prefer the YouTube TV route because it consolidates billing. Others prefer subscribing directly to Paramount+ because they do not want YouTube TV and only want Paramount+. There is no quality difference or content difference between the two — you get the same service either way. The price may differ slightly depending on current promotions, so it is worth checking both options if cost is your main concern.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I watch Paramount+ on YouTube TV without paying extra?
No. Paramount+ is not included in YouTube TV's base subscription. You must purchase it as an add-on if you want to watch it through YouTube TV, or you can subscribe to Paramount+ separately through Paramount's website.
If I cancel YouTube TV, do I lose Paramount+ too?
No. Paramount+ is a separate subscription. If you cancel YouTube TV, your Paramount+ add-on will also cancel because it was billed through YouTube TV. However, you can resubscribe to Paramount+ directly through Paramount at any time.
Can I use my YouTube TV login to watch Paramount+ on the Paramount+ app?
Yes. When you add Paramount+ through YouTube TV, you can sign into the Paramount+ app using your YouTube TV credentials. This lets you watch Paramount+ content on any device without opening the YouTube TV app.
What happens if I add Paramount+ mid-month?
Your subscription starts when ready and you are billed right away. Your next billing date will be one month from the date you added it. Most services do not prorate charges, so you pay the full monthly price even if you add it partway through the month.
Are there any YouTube TV plans that include Paramount+ for free?
No. All YouTube TV plans charge the same base price and do not include any premium streaming services. Paramount+ and other add-ons are always optional purchases on top of your base subscription, regardless of which YouTube TV plan you choose.