Paramount+ (previously CBS All Access) is the streaming service from Paramount Global. It offers two main tiers — Essential (with ads) and Showtime (ad-free with Showtime content). Many billing issues arise from Showtime add-on confusion and third-party billing relationships.
Common Paramount+ Billing Issues
1. Showtime Add-On Charges
Paramount+ with Showtime includes access to all Showtime content for a higher monthly fee. If you subscribed to Paramount+ Essential and also added Showtime as a separate add-on, you may be seeing two charges. The Paramount+ with Showtime plan combines both into one subscription.
2. CBS All Access to Paramount+ Transition
In 2021, CBS All Access was rebranded to Paramount+. Subscribers were automatically migrated. If you had CBS All Access previously, check that your billing plan matches what you expected under the new Paramount+ structure.
3. Promotional Pricing Expiration
Paramount+ frequently offers introductory prices for new subscribers. When these promotions expire, your account reverts to the standard monthly rate. Check your account page to see when your current promotional period ends.
4. Third-Party Billing Confusion
If you signed up for Paramount+ through Apple, Amazon, or Roku, your billing goes through those platforms. Changes, upgrades, or cancellations must be handled within those platforms' subscription settings — not through the Paramount+ website.
5. Unexpected Annual Renewal
Annual subscriptions renew automatically at the start of each billing year. If you forgot you signed up for an annual plan, you may see a large charge appearing once per year. Review your subscription type in your account settings.
Setting Up Paramount+ on Your Devices
Paramount+ on Smart TV
- Open your Smart TV's app store and search for "Paramount+."
- Download and install the Paramount+ app.
- Open the app and select "Sign In."
- Log in with your email and password, or select "Activate on Web" and visit paramountplus.com/activate on another device.
- Enter the activation code displayed on your TV screen.
Paramount+ on Roku
- In the Roku Channel Store, search for "Paramount+."
- Add and launch the Paramount+ channel.
- Choose "Sign In" and note the activation code shown.
- Visit paramountplus.com/roku on another device and enter the code with your login credentials.
Paramount+ on Amazon Fire TV
- Search for "Paramount+" in the Amazon Fire TV App Store.
- Install the Paramount+ app and open it.
- Select "Log In" and enter your email and password directly or use the web activation code method.
Device Compatibility
- Supported Devices: Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV (tvOS 12 or later), Chromecast, Samsung and LG Smart TVs, Xbox, PlayStation 4/5, iOS (14 or later), and Android (5.0 or later).
- Simultaneous Streams: Paramount+ allows up to 3 simultaneous streams per account.
- Downloads: Select titles can be downloaded on mobile devices for offline viewing with the Paramount+ with Showtime plan.
Need Help With Your Paramount+ Account?
Our independent support team can guide you through billing confusion, account access issues, and device setup for Paramount+.
Call Independent Support: 1(888) 819-3660Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Paramount+ Essential and Paramount+ with Showtime?
Paramount+ Essential includes ads and does not include Showtime content. Paramount+ with Showtime is ad-free and includes the full Showtime library. The with-Showtime plan costs more per month but replaces the need for a separate Showtime subscription.
Can I watch NFL on Paramount+?
Paramount+ streams CBS's portion of NFL games (AFC games) in most markets. NFL availability depends on your local market and which games CBS is broadcasting that week. This requires a Paramount+ Essential or higher subscription.
Why was I charged for Showtime separately?
If you added Showtime as an add-on to Paramount+ Essential before upgrading to Paramount+ with Showtime, you may have both charges on your account. Remove the separate Showtime add-on if you've upgraded to the bundled plan to avoid double-billing.
How do I get a refund from Paramount+?
Paramount+ generally does not issue refunds for subscription periods already in progress. If you were charged in error or experienced extended service issues, contact Paramount+ support to discuss potential credits. If you believe you were fraudulently charged, contact your bank to file a dispute.