How to take a break from Netflix

Maybe you’re tired of the price increases. Maybe you’re not keen on the whole password sharing thing. Or maybe there’s just nothing you want to see anymore. Whatever the reason, you may be wondering: Is it time for a Netflix break?

The idea of ​​putting Netflix on pause is trickier than other streaming services. For many of us, Netflix has been a part of our lives for decades – heck, I was a Netflix subscriber for almost 20 years – while the other major streamers are barely a few years old.

Because Netflix has been around for so long, it can feel like a utility company – you know, something you automatically pay for, like gas and electricity. (Or taxes.)

On the other hand, my attitude is towards the newer streamers (like Max or Peacock). easy Come Easy Go. If we want to see something specific, we sign up. As soon as we’re done, we’ll cancel. I found out about the latest season of Hacks or Poker face? Bye!

So what makes Netflix so special? Good question – and actually, after months of scrolling through line after line of Netflix videos that I didn’t want to stream, I realized I was suffering from some serious Netflix fatigue.

I finally had enough – I canceled Netflix, and I’m glad I did. We’ll return to Netflix at some point, but it’ll have to wait its turn as we go through the other major streamers one by one.

So, repeat after me: you may Take a break from Netflix. It’s okay. And just because you’re leaving doesn’t mean you can’t return.

How to take a break from your Netflix subscription

Netflix does not offer the option to pause your membership. Instead, you must cancel your subscription completely.

But here’s the thing: Netflix retains your member data, including your profiles, watchlist, video ratings and recommendations, for up to 10 months after you cancel.

Assuming you restart your subscription before those 10 months are up, you’re effectively putting your membership on hold.

• Time to completion: 5 minutes
• Tools Required: None
• Materials Required: An active Netflix subscription
• Cost: $0

1.

Go to your Netflix account settings

Ben Patterson/Foundry

Open Netflix on the web, click your profile icon in the top right of the screen, then click Account.

2.

Click the “Cancel Membership” button.

Ben Patterson/Foundry

In the top left corner of the account screen, just below where it says how long you’ve been a member (guilty!), you’ll find this cancel membership Button.

Take a deep breath and click on it.

3.

Complete the cancellation process

Ben Patterson/Foundry

You have now reached the final step – finally, at least for now. Press that Complete the cancellation button and you’re done.

Assuming you come back before your 10 months are up, your profiles will be waiting for you when you return.

Updated May 7, 2024 to add new context and check for accuracy.