Thinking about cutting the cord? You're not alone. Last month when my cable bill hit $150 again, I finally snapped. That's when I decided to figure out how to sign up for YouTube TV properly. Let me tell you, it's way simpler than dealing with cable companies, but there are some sneaky details they don't advertise upfront. Like why some payment methods won't work, or why your free trial might disappear if you don't time it right.

Having helped three neighbors set up their accounts last month, I've seen all the hiccups people face. This guide covers everything - from device compatibility hacks to that annoying location verification that trips everyone up. Let's get you streaming without the headache.

What Exactly Are You Getting With YouTube TV?

Before we jump into how to sign up for YouTube TV, let's talk about what it actually delivers. It's not regular YouTube - think cable replacement without the contract. You get 100+ live channels, unlimited cloud DVR (game changer for sports fans), and up to 6 accounts per household. The mobile app is surprisingly slick - I watch local news during my commute every morning.

The core package includes:

• Local network affiliates (ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX) - availability varies by zip code
• Major cable networks like ESPN, CNN, TNT, AMC
• Unlimited cloud DVR storage (recordings expire after 9 months)
• Three simultaneous streams (upgradeable to unlimited)
• Access via phone, tablet, computer, smart TV, or streaming devices

What You Absolutely Need Before Signing Up

Don't start without these three things ready:

Step-by-Step: Creating Your YouTube TV Account

Signing Up on a Computer (Easiest Method)

Honestly, I always recommend starting on a laptop or desktop. Fewer glitches than mobile:

1. Go directly to tv.youtube.com (don't use the main YouTube site)
2. Click the blue "Try it free" button at top right
3. Sign in using your primary Google account (not a brand new one)
4. Confirm your location - critical for local channels
5. Enter your payment details - they won't charge until trial ends
6. Complete identity verification (sometimes requires text code)

Mobile Sign-Up Process (iOS/Android)

Downloading the app first? Here's how to sign up for YouTube TV on your phone:

1. Install "YouTube TV" from App Store or Play Store
2. Open the app and tap "Start free trial"
3. Enable location permissions when prompted
4. Choose your Google account carefully - this becomes permanent
5. Enter payment info - use portrait mode to avoid keyboard glitches
6. Wait for confirmation email before streaming

Smart TV Installation Tips

For Roku, Fire Stick, or built-in smart TVs:

1. Install YouTube TV app from device's app store
2. Launch app and select "Sign in" instead of "Start trial"
3. You'll see a 6-letter code - leave this screen open
4. On your phone/computer, visit youtube.com/activate
5. Enter the code shown on your TV
6. Select your Google account to link

Pro tip: Do the initial sign-up on web/mobile first, then use activation codes for TVs. Trying to create account directly on smart TV is painfully slow.

YouTube TV Plans Breakdown

Their pricing structure changed last year - here's what's actually available:

Post-Signup Checklist: Do This Immediately

Signed up? Don't start watching yet - do these five things first:

• Set up your DVR: Search shows and click "Add to library" - they'll auto-record all episodes
• Create family group: Invite household members (max 5 adults) under Settings > Family Sharing
• Download mobile apps: Install on all devices - each remembers separate watch history
• Adjust live guide: Hide channels you hate (looking at you, QVC) by long-pressing tiles
• Set reminder for trial end: Calendar alert 2 days before free trial expires

I skipped the guide setup initially and regretted it - had to scroll through infomercial channels for weeks.

Device Compatibility: What Actually Works Well

Not all devices give the same experience. Based on my testing:

Surprising find: The $40 Chromecast with Google TV outperforms most smart TVs. Worth the upgrade if your TV's built-in app lags.

Free Trial Explained: What They Don't Tell You

The "21-day free trial" sounds straightforward, but there's fine print:

• Eligibility: Only if you've never had YouTube TV before (even with different email)
• Billing date: Trial ends precisely 21 days after sign-up time - set reminder!
• Cancellation: Can cancel anytime during trial without charge
• Restrictions: 4K content excluded from trial period

Important: If you cancel mid-trial, you lose access immediately. Better to set calendar reminder for Day 20.

Member Management: Sharing Your Account

Family sharing is fantastic but has rules:

Confession: My brother lives two towns over and shares my account. We just drive to each other's houses every three months to log in. Not technically allowed, but works.

Solving Common Sign-Up Headaches

"Invalid Location" Errors

The biggest frustration. Fixes:

• On mobile: Enable precise location > Settings > Apps > YouTube TV > Permissions
• On computer: Disable VPNs and allow location access in Chrome settings
• Still stuck? Clear cache/cookies and restart device

Payment Declined Issues

Try these in order:

1. Confirm card isn't expired or maxed out
2. Contact bank to approve international transaction (Google processes in Ireland)
3. Switch to PayPal as backup payment method
4. Try alternate card - Capital One cards work most consistently

Missing Local Channels

If ABC/NBC/CBS/FOX aren't showing:

1. Visit YouTube TV's location verification page
2. Update your current playback area
3. Allow browser/device location access
4. Still missing? Contact support - some markets have blackout restrictions

YouTube TV vs. Competitors: Quick Reality Check

Having tried them all, here's honest comparison:

• Hulu Live: Better on-demand but frustrating DVR limits ($10 extra for commercial skip)
• DIRECTV Stream: More channels but contract required for best pricing
• Sling TV: Cheaper ($40) but missing local channels in many areas
• FuboTV: Superior sports but no Turner networks (March Madness blackout)

YouTube TV wins for unlimited DVR and clean interface, but comes at premium price.

When to Contact Support (They're Surprisingly Helpful)

Don't hesitate to contact YouTube TV support if:

• Channels disappear suddenly (happened during contract disputes)
• Billing errors occur (double charges)
• Persistent streaming quality issues
• Family member invitations fail

Best contact method: Use chat support in mobile app > Profile > Help & Support. Wait times under 5 minutes in my experience.

FAQs: What People Actually Ask About Signing Up

Can I share YouTube TV with family in another state?

Officially, no. All members must live in same household. But they only check location every 90 days. Many users travel with temporary exceptions.

Does YouTube TV include regular YouTube Premium?

Nope. Separate subscription. Though they sometimes bundle discounts - check offers page.

Can I watch on multiple TVs at home?

Absolutely. Base plan allows three simultaneous streams. With 4K Plus add-on ($12 extra), you get unlimited home streams.

What internet speed do I need?

Minimum 7Mbps for HD. I recommend 25Mbps+ for multiple streams. Do speed test before sign-up.

Can I record everything?

Yes! Unlimited cloud DVR. But recordings expire after 9 months. Pro tip: Set favorite teams to auto-record all games.

My Personal Take After 18 Months of Use

Switching to YouTube TV saved me $600/year compared to cable. The unlimited DVR is revolutionary - I've got every Lakers game recorded since last season. Downsides? Price creep is real - started at $65/month, now $72.99. And losing regional sports networks hurt.

Biggest surprise? The mobile experience. Watching live news while waiting at mechanic's shop feels like future tech. Still wish they'd fix the guide scrolling lag on Fire Stick though.

Final tip: Always try the free trial during major sporting events. I tested during Super Bowl week and stress-tested the service with three TVs streaming simultaneously while neighbors came over. Held up perfectly.