HP Printer Cannot Be Used Until Printer Is Enrolled in HP Instant Ink – How to Fix it

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If your HP printer shows a message stating that it cannot be used until it is enrolled in HP Instant Ink, it is likely a printer that requires mandatory enrollment or is currently restricted due to an account or subscription issue. Here’s how to fix it.

Understand the Cause of the Error

Printer Model Requires Enrollment

Some HP+ or Instant Ink-enabled printers must be enrolled in HP Instant Ink to activate or continue usage. This is especially common with HP+ models like the HP ENVY Inspire, HP DeskJet Plus, or HP LaserJet MFPs with HP+.

Ink or Subscription Restriction

If the printer has been enrolled previously and HP Instant Ink cartridges are installed, but the subscription has been canceled or is inactive, printing may be blocked until the issue is resolved.

Fix 1: Enroll in HP Instant Ink

Use the HP Smart App
  1. Open the HP Smart app on your smartphone or computer.
  2. Sign in with your HP account (or create one if needed).
  3. Select your printer and look for the HP Instant Ink enrollment prompt.
  4. Follow the steps to complete enrollment and activate your subscription.

Online Enrollment

Fix 2: Use Regular Ink Cartridges (If Supported)

Remove HP Instant Ink Cartridges

If your printer supports standard HP cartridges (non-Instant Ink), remove the Instant Ink cartridges and install regular retail cartridges.

Note: This will not work on HP+ printers, which require HP account activation and enrollment.

Fix 3: Cancel HP+ (Only Possible Within Setup Period)

Opt Out During Initial Setup

If your printer is brand new and has not completed the HP+ setup:

  • Reset the printer to factory settings.
  • During the initial setup via HP Smart, do not activate HP+.
  • Use standard cartridges and a local printer driver.

Once HP+ is activated, it cannot be removed.

Fix 4: Reactivate a Canceled Subscription

If Previously Enrolled but Subscription Was Canceled
  1. Go to your HP Instant Ink account.
  2. Check for subscription status and billing information.
  3. If needed, update payment details and reactivate the plan.

Fix 5: Contact HP Support

If the above steps don’t work:

  • Go to https://support.hp.com
  • Contact HP chat or phone support.
  • Provide your printer’s serial number and error message for personalized help.

This issue is most common with HP+ printers and HP Instant Ink-only cartridges, which are locked to active subscriptions. Always check your printer’s model and subscription status before attempting to bypass enrollment.