Paramount+ has grown into one of the most-watched streaming platforms in the US, boasting 79 million subscribers globally — and that number keeps climbing as the platform adds live sports, blockbuster movies, and hit originals. But with subscription prices rising in 2026, many viewers are hunting for a Paramount+ free trial before committing to a paid plan. Here's what you need to know upfront: the traditional free trial is gone, but there are still legitimate ways to watch Paramount+ for free or at a steep discount.
Quick Answer
Paramount+ no longer offers a traditional free trial as of 2026. However, legitimate ways to watch free or discounted still exist. These include promotional deals through partner services, bundled offers, and limited-time discount codes. With 79 million global subscribers, the platform remains popular despite removing its standard trial option.
How to Get Paramount Plus Free Trial in 2026
Paramount+ quietly phased out its standard free trial offer when it rolled out a price increase in early 2026. That means if you visit the signup page today, you won't see a "try free for 7 days" button. However, that doesn't mean you're out of options. Several workarounds — from retail memberships to promotional pricing and provider bundles — can still get you access without paying full price right away.
Whether you're trying to catch a specific show, stream NFL games, or just test the platform before subscribing, this guide covers every legitimate method available to US customers in 2026. If you're also exploring options on other platforms, check out our tips on getting Netflix for free for more ways to reduce your streaming bill.
Is There Still a Paramount+ Free Trial in 2026?
The short answer is no — not in the traditional sense. Paramount+ eliminated its free trial offer alongside its Q1 2026 price increases. Confirmed by active Reddit discussions in the Paramount+ community, users who delayed signing up lost access to the free trial window that previously existed. The platform now requires payment from day one when signing up directly at paramountplus.com. That said, the platform does currently offer a heavily discounted promotional rate that functions as a practical alternative for new subscribers who want to test the service before committing at full price.
Best Ways to Get Paramount+ Free or Discounted
Walmart+ Membership
If you're already a Walmart+ member — or considering joining — this is the closest thing to a completely free Paramount+ subscription available right now. Walmart+ includes a complimentary Paramount+ Essential plan as part of its membership benefits, with no additional charge. You get access to thousands of on-demand titles, live TV, and sports, all bundled into what you're already paying for Walmart+.
- Walmart+ costs $12.95/month or $98/year — and Paramount+ Essential is included at no extra cost
- Essential plan includes ads but covers live CBS, NFL games, and full on-demand library
Limited-Time Promotional Pricing
Paramount+ is currently running a promotional deal through March 31, 2026: new and returning subscribers can get any monthly plan for just $2.99 per month for the first two months. While this isn't technically free, it's a significant discount that lets you explore the full platform for under $6 total before your regular rate kicks in. This is the next best thing to a free trial and is available directly on the Paramount+ website.
- Offer valid through 3/31/26 for new and lapsed subscribers on any monthly plan
- After 2 months, billing reverts to standard pricing ($7.99/mo Essential or $13.99/mo Premium)
Student Discount
Eligible US college students can get 50% off Paramount+ Essential or Premium plans, making it one of the most affordable ongoing streaming deals available. While this isn't a free trial, it dramatically reduces the cost barrier for students who want to evaluate the platform long-term. Verification is handled through a third-party student eligibility service at signup.
- Cuts the Essential plan to roughly $4/month and the Premium plan to around $7/month
- Available for currently enrolled US students with a valid academic email or enrollment verification
Military Discount
Active-duty US military personnel and veterans qualify for a 50% discount on Paramount+ subscriptions. Like the student discount, this provides ongoing savings rather than a free trial, but it's a meaningful way to access the platform at half price indefinitely. Verification is quick and can be completed during the signup process on the Paramount+ site.
- Applies to both Essential and Premium monthly plans — roughly $4–$7/month after discount
- Must verify military status through the platform's identity verification partner
TV Provider and Partner Bundles
Some cable and streaming TV providers include Paramount+ as part of their existing packages. If you subscribe to eligible services like Xfinity, Apple TV+, or select other TV providers, you may already have access or qualify for a bundled rate. Check your provider's app store or account dashboard to see if Paramount+ is included before paying separately. Pairing services this way is one of the smartest streaming bundle deals you can take advantage of right now.
- Xfinity internet and TV subscribers may have Paramount+ included or available at a reduced bundle rate
- Apple One or Apple TV+ bundle users should check for Paramount+ add-on discounts through the Apple ecosystem
What You Get With Each Paramount+ Plan
Understanding the plan differences helps you decide whether a discounted or bundled option gives you everything you need. The Essential plan ($7.99/month standard) includes ads, live CBS, NFL games, and the full on-demand library. The Premium plan ($13.99/month standard) adds live local CBS, SHOWTIME content, and removes most ads. Both plans are covered under the current $2.99 promotional offer through March 31, 2026, making now the best time to sign up if you're on the fence.
- Essential: Ad-supported, full library, live sports and CBS — best for budget-conscious viewers
- Premium: Near-ad-free, SHOWTIME included, local CBS live — best for sports fans and SHOWTIME subscribers
Tips to Maximize Your Free or Low-Cost Access
Even without a classic free trial, you can be strategic about how you access Paramount+. If you're primarily interested in a specific season, a live sports event, or a limited series, the $2.99 two-month promo gives you plenty of time to watch what you need before canceling. Set a calendar reminder before your billing date so you don't accidentally roll into full-price billing. You can also explore free movie streaming apps to supplement your viewing if you cancel after the promo period.
- Cancel before the promo period ends to avoid full-price charges — no penalty for early cancellation
- Re-subscribe during future promotions — Paramount+ regularly targets lapsed users with new discount offers
Final Words
Paramount+ no longer offers a traditional free trial in 2026, but you're not stuck paying full price to try the service. The best options right now are the Walmart+ bundle for a truly free ongoing subscription, the $2.99/month promotional deal through March 31, and the student or military discount for long-term savings. If you're a TV provider subscriber, always check for bundle inclusions before paying separately. Act before the promo deadline if you want the deepest discount currently available — and remember that Paramount+ regularly runs new subscriber deals, so lapsed users should keep an eye on their inbox for future offers.