Netflix recently rolled out the new account sharing guidelines, and myths around the account sharing dos and don’ts are floating around. So, what’s the deal with sharing account members? How much extra will you need to pay? And most importantly, how to get a 5% off on Netflix subscription?
We’re here to break it all down for you, so you can indulge in your favorite pastime of binging your favorite TV shows and movies in peace. Let’s get into it!
What’s new with Netflix account sharing?
On May 25, 2023, Netflix released the latest account sharing guides, which require members who share accounts but don’t live together to pay extra.
Alright, with this new policy rolled out, is Netflix account sharing still legal? A 100% yes. According to Netflix’s Terms of Use, “account sharing is for personal and non-commercial use only and may not be shared with individuals beyond your household.”
In short, Netflix still allows family members who live under the same roof to share the same account without any additional cost.
However, sharing your Netflix account with someone who lives outside of your household can be a bit complicated. The term “household members” typically refers to family or roommates who share the same address and internet connection. That’s where “Extra Member Slots” come into play.
How does Netflix determine if users are living together and sharing an account?
Many netizens in Hong Kong may wonder how the streaming service will determine whether non-cohabiting users are sharing an account and if they will have to pay extra.
According to the Netflix official support page, Netflix defines same-household devices as those connected to the network in the main location where the user watches Netflix.
- Users can set up a Netflix same-household device on a TV, and all devices connected to the same network as the TV will be recognized as the same-household device.
- Netflix will determine whether the login device has been set as the same-household device based on various information, including the IP address, device identification code, and account activity.
- If there are other Wi-Fi networks in the home, verification will be required again.
Who needs an extra member slot for Netflix account sharing?
If you are sharing your Netflix account with someone who does not live with you, you may need to pay HK$28 per month for an extra member slot. This fee applies to account owners with Standard and Premium plans.
| Netflix Plan | Monthly Fee | Extra member slots (HK$28/each) |
| Basic | HK$73 | N/A |
| Standard | HK$88 | N/A |
| Premium | HK$108 | N/A |
| Standard + 1 extra member slot | HK$116 | 1 |
| Premium + 2 extra member slots | HK$164 | 2 |
A Netflix account under the standard plan can add 1 extra member slot, while the premium plan can add 2 extra member slots. The premium plan with 2 extra member slots will cost HK$164 in total (HK$108+ HK$28 + HK$28).
How to add an “extra member slot”? To add an “extra member slot”, the account owner will need to purchase an extra slot, then invite another account to use it.
A few notes on “extra member slot”:
- Keep in mind that the extra member must be activated in the same country where the main account owner is based.
- Extra members cannot be added to Netflix-included packages or third-party-billed accounts, nor can they be added to ad-supported plans.
- When creating a new Netflix account or adding a new member, you can transfer a profile from an existing account, which includes all the features such as recommendations, viewing history, My List, saved games, and settings.
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As always, MoneySmart has another great money-saving tip for you. For now, you can score a sweet deal of a 5% discount on Netflix, Disney+, Spotify, and other online streaming services by paying the bill with your Standard Chartered Smart Card.
If you subscribe to a premium plan with 2 extra member slots, it will be HK$164 (HK$108 + HK$28 + HK$28) in total. You’ll be able to save up to HK$98.4 (HK$149 x 12 months x 5%) for your Netflix Premium account if you pay with the Standard Chartered Smart Card!
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Frequently Asked Questions: Netflix account sharing
How much does Netflix cost?
Netflix is a monthly subscription service that will hit you up for cash once you sign up. You’ll get billed at the start of every billing cycle, and there are various plans you can pick from depending on how you roll, with prices starting from HK$73 to HK$164 depending on plan and extra member slots.
Which Netflix subscription is the best?
Netflix’s Premium Subscription Plan is the ultimate ticket to Ultra High Definition (4K+HDR) content, available to customers on up to 4 simultaneous screens, including phones, tablets, computers, and smart TVs. It’s the top-tier plan for your streaming experience.
Can I share my Netflix account?
The account owner will need to purchase an extra member slot and then invite an extra member to use the extra member slot if they don’t live with you. And the extra member needs to be activated in the same country where the main account is set up. More than that, the extra member slot cannot be bundled into Netflix-included packages or third-party-billed accounts.
Related Article
Don’t know which streaming service to choose? Netflix, Disney+,or Amazon Prime? Check out our blog post Best Streaming Services Comparison in Hong Kong to find your best fit!
Don’t know what to watch next on Netflix? Check out the latest Top 5 must watch shows on Netflix!
Wanna stay ahead of the herd? Let’s check out the MoneySmart blog for more financial tips!
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