Game Pass, launched by Microsoft in 2017, is basically the Netflix for video games. It gives you a huge library of games to download and play. But maybe the backlog is getting overwhelming, or you're just tired of seeing that monthly charge for something you're not using. With plans ranging from $9.99 to $16.99, it adds up. This guide covers how to cancel on Desktop and Xbox. Honestly, since they added Diablo IV, it's been tempting to keep it, but if you're not playing, you can save up to $203.88 a year. Let's get that money back in your pocket.
How to Cancel Game Pass Subscription on Desktop
This is probably the easiest way to cancel. You can do it from any computer, and you don't have to boot up your Xbox. I did have to refresh the page once because the 'Manage' button wasn't showing up, so just be aware of that.
1 Go to the Microsoft Account Page
Open your web browser and navigate to account.microsoft.com/services. You'll need to sign in with the correct Microsoft account.
2 Find Your Game Pass Subscription
You should see a list of all your Microsoft subscriptions. Scroll until you find the one for Xbox Game Pass. It might say Ultimate, PC, or Console.
3 Click on Manage
Next to your Game Pass subscription, there's a Manage link. Click it. This takes you to the main details page for that specific subscription.
4 Select Cancel Subscription
On the management page, you'll see an option that says Cancel subscription or Turn off recurring billing. They both do the same thing, so click whichever one you see.
5 Confirm the Cancellation
Microsoft will probably show you an offer to try and keep you. Just ignore it and follow the on-screen instructions to confirm you want to cancel. You should get an email confirming it's done.
How to Cancel Game Pass Subscription on Xbox Console
If you're already on your console, you can cancel directly from the settings menu. It's a few more button presses than the web version, but it gets the job done.
1 Open the Guide Menu
Press the Xbox button (the glowing one) on your controller to open the main guide.
2 Navigate to Settings
Use the bumper buttons to tab over to Profile & system. Then, select Settings from the menu.
3 Go to Your Subscriptions
In the Settings menu, go to the Account tab and then select Subscriptions.
4 Choose Your Game Pass Plan
You'll see your active Game Pass subscription listed here. Select it to view the details.
5 Turn Off Recurring Billing
Select the option to Turn off recurring billing. This is how Xbox phrases the cancellation. Follow the prompts to confirm your choice.
Cancel Game Pass Subscription with phone
You can try calling Microsoft Support at 1-800-642-7676, but be prepared for a wait. Honestly, they really push you to use the website. One user on Reddit said, 'I was on hold for 45 minutes just to be told to go to the website.' It's usually faster to just use the online steps.
Cancel Game Pass Subscription with live chat
Live chat is a better option than the phone. Go to the Microsoft Support contact page. You'll have to click through a few automated questions about your issue (select 'Billing' or 'Subscriptions'). Eventually, you should see an option to chat with an agent. Response times can vary, so grab a snack.
First, the good news: canceling is pretty straightforward and you won't lose your game saves or your Microsoft account. The bad news? Don't expect a refund. If your subscription just renewed yesterday, you're out of luck. Microsoft's policy is that you get to use the service until the end of your paid period, but they won't give you money back for unused time. Also, there's no 'pause' button. You either have it or you don't.
Game Pass Plans and Pricing 2025
| Plan | Price (per month) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Game Pass Core | $9.99 | Replaces Xbox Live Gold. Includes online console multiplayer and a catalog of over 25 games. |
| Game Pass for Console | $10.99 | Access to a library of hundreds of games on Xbox consoles. Does not include online multiplayer. |
| PC Game Pass | $9.99 | Access to a library of hundreds of games on PC, plus an EA Play membership. |
| Game Pass Ultimate | $16.99 | The all-in-one plan. Includes the full PC and Console game libraries, online multiplayer, EA Play, and Xbox Cloud Gaming. |
Frequently Asked Questions about Game Pass
Can I unsubscribe from Game Pass anytime?
Can I get a refund from Game Pass if I forgot to cancel?
How do I know my Game Pass subscription is cancelled?
How long does it take for Game Pass to cancel?
What else should I know before I cancel my Game Pass subscription?
How do I raise a complaint to Game Pass?
Olivia Harper
Content Manager
Olivia Harper, a Content Manager with nine years of experience, creates user-focused guides on subscription services. Featured in Digital Consumer Reports, her work simplifies subscription terms and cancellations.
