YouTube TV has begun issuing the promised $20 credits to subscribers affected by the ongoing Disney-ESPN channel blackout. The compensation comes as the distribution dispute enters its second week with no immediate resolution in sight, leaving sports fans without access to major events during peak college and NFL football seasons.
The streaming service began emailing customers on Sunday, November 9, informing them about the credit availability. According to multiple reports, all YouTube TV subscribers should receive notification about the credit by November 12, so keep checking your inbox if you haven't seen the message yet.
Why YouTube TV is issuing credits
The $20 credit comes after YouTube TV lost all Disney-owned channels on November 1 when the distribution agreement between the companies expired without renewal. This blackout removed popular networks including ESPN, ABC and FX from the service.
YouTube's parent company Google promised this compensation last week if the channels remained unavailable for what they termed an "extended period." With major sporting events affected, the credit aims to partially offset subscriber frustration during the ongoing dispute. If you're owed $20 credits, here's how you can claim it.
1. Go to Settings
To check if you've received the credit, log into your YouTube TV account through a web browser and go to Settings.
2. Select Updates
Next, find Updates at the end of the page and click it.
3. Click Claim credit
In the updates page, you'll see an acknowledgement of the Disney dispute, and that Youtube TV is offering you with a one-time $20 credit.
Choose Claim credit. After selecting this, you'll be taken to a final confirmation page.
4. Confirmation
You'll see confirmation stating that the $20 has been credited to you, and will applied towards your next bill.
What this means for subscribers
While the $20 credit provides some relief, it represents only a fraction of the monthly YouTube TV subscription cost of $82. Sports fans missing crucial games during peak seasons may find the compensation inadequate compared to the content loss.
Subscribers who primarily joined for sports content may need to consider alternatives if a resolution isn't reached soon, especially with the NFL and college basketball seasons in full swing. We have a list of 3 YouTube TV alternatives if you're fed up with the blackout.
More from Tom's Guide
- I tested YouTube’s new AI feature — what it does and how it works
- YouTube TV is offering $60 off credits for some users — here's how to claim
- Disney Plus features — how to access extra content and special features
You must confirm your public display name before commenting
Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.
