What Hallmark subscriptions offer and how they work
Hallmark offers two main subscription services: Hallmark Channel+ and Hallmark Movies Now. Both let you stream Hallmark's television content on demand rather than watching on a cable schedule. Hallmark Channel+ includes live access to the Hallmark Channel itself plus an on-demand library. Hallmark Movies Now is on-demand only and focuses on movies rather than live television.
The services work through apps on phones, tablets, computers, and streaming devices like Roku, Apple TV, and Amazon Fire. You create an account, choose a plan, and pay monthly or annually. Content is available immediately after you subscribe — there is no waiting period or approval process.
Both services include the same general types of content: holiday movies (particularly around Christmas, Valentine's Day, and Easter), original dramas and mysteries, and reruns of Hallmark Channel shows. The exact library differs between the two services, and both add new content regularly.
Key Takeaways
- Hallmark Channel+ costs more than Hallmark Movies Now because it includes live television access, while Movies Now is on-demand only.
- Both services offer free trials that last several days, so you can test them before paying.
- You can cancel anytime without penalty, and cancellation takes effect immediately or at the end of your current billing period depending on the service.
- Hallmark also offers bundles with other streaming services like Peacock or Amazon Prime Video that may cost less than subscribing separately.
Pricing and payment options
Hallmark Channel+ costs between $5.99 and $9.99 per month depending on whether you choose the ad-supported or ad-free version. Annual plans run roughly $59.99 to $99.99 if you pay upfront. Hallmark Movies Now costs $5.99 per month with ads or $9.99 without ads, with annual options available at similar discounts.
Payment is by credit card, debit card, or through your existing account if you subscribe via Apple, Google Play, Amazon, or Roku. The charge appears on your statement under Hallmark Entertainment or a similar label. If you use a third-party platform to subscribe, that platform handles billing and you may see the charge from them instead.
Both services offer free trials lasting 5 to 7 days (the exact length varies). During the trial, you have full access to the service. Your payment method is required to start the trial, and you will be charged when the trial ends unless you cancel beforehand.
Differences between Hallmark Channel+ and Hallmark Movies Now
Hallmark Channel+ includes live streaming of the Hallmark Channel as it airs, plus an on-demand library of past episodes and movies. This is useful if you want to watch holiday programming on its original air date or follow live events. The live component is why this plan costs more.
Hallmark Movies Now has no live television — you can only watch content that has already aired. The library is smaller than Hallmark Channel+ and focuses more heavily on movies than on series. It is the cheaper option if you do not need live access and do not mind watching on a delayed schedule.
Both services let you download content to watch offline on mobile devices, though the number of downloads allowed may vary. Both also let you create multiple profiles within one account, so different household members can have separate watch histories and recommendations.
How to start and manage your subscription
Visit the Hallmark website or download the Hallmark app from your device's app store. Create an account with your email address and a password. Choose which service you want (Hallmark Channel+ or Movies Now) and whether you prefer the ad-supported or ad-free version. Enter your payment information and confirm. You will have access to the service immediately.
To cancel, log into your account settings and look for a "Manage Subscription" or "Billing" section. Select the option to cancel. Depending on the service, cancellation may take effect immediately or at the end of your current billing cycle — the system will tell you which applies. You will not be charged again after cancellation, though you may retain access through the end of the period you already paid for.
If you subscribed through a third-party platform like Apple or Amazon, you must cancel through that platform, not through the Hallmark website. Go to your account settings on that platform and find the subscription management section.
Bundled options and discounts
Hallmark sometimes offers bundle deals that combine its streaming service with other platforms. For example, you may find Hallmark Channel+ bundled with Peacock or included as part of an Amazon Prime Video add-on. These bundles typically cost less than paying for each service separately, though the savings vary.
Check the Hallmark website directly and also look at the streaming sections of Amazon, Apple, and Roku to see current bundle offers. Bundles change seasonally, particularly around the holidays when Hallmark content is most popular.
Some cable and satellite providers also include Hallmark Channel+ as part of their television package or offer it at a discount to existing customers. If you have cable, contact your provider to ask whether this option is available to you.
What to know about ads and content restrictions
The ad-supported versions of both services show commercials during playback, typically 2 to 4 minutes of ads per 30-minute episode. The ad-free versions have no commercials. Some content may be restricted to the ad-supported tier only, meaning you cannot watch it even if you pay for ad-free — this is rare but does happen with certain licensed movies.
Both services are family-friendly and rated for general audiences. Content includes some violence and mild language typical of network television, but nothing graphic or explicit. Parental controls are available in account settings if you want to restrict what other household members can watch.
Hallmark does not offer offline downloads on all devices — this feature is typically available on phones and tablets but not on computers or streaming devices. Check the app on your specific device to see whether downloads are supported.
Troubleshooting common issues
If you cannot log in, first check that you are using the correct email address and password. If you have forgotten your password, use the "Forgot Password" link on the login page to reset it via email. If you still cannot access your account, contact Hallmark customer support through the website or app.
If the app crashes or content will not play, try closing the app completely and reopening it. If that does not work, restart your device. Make sure your internet connection is stable — streaming requires a consistent connection, and weak Wi-Fi can cause playback problems. If the issue persists, uninstall and reinstall the app.
If you are charged after cancelling, check your account to confirm the cancellation went through. If it did not, cancel again. If you were charged in error, contact customer support with your confirmation email and billing statement. Most disputes are resolved within a few business days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I watch Hallmark on a regular streaming service like Netflix or Hulu?
Some Hallmark content appears on other platforms, but the full library is only available through Hallmark's own services. Netflix and Hulu carry select Hallmark movies, but they do not have the complete collection or live channel access. If you want the full Hallmark experience, you need Hallmark Channel+ or Movies Now.
Do I need cable to watch Hallmark Channel+?
No. Hallmark Channel+ is a standalone streaming service that works without cable. You only need an internet connection and a compatible device. Some cable customers get discounts, but cable is not required.
Can I share my subscription with someone outside my household?
The terms of service restrict sharing to your household. Sharing your login with people outside your home violates the service agreement and could result in your account being suspended. Each person should have their own subscription.
What happens to my watch history if I cancel and resubscribe later?
Your watch history and saved content are tied to your account. If you cancel and later resubscribe using the same email address, your history will still be there. If you create a new account with a different email, you will start fresh.
Is there a student or senior discount?
Hallmark does not currently offer student or senior discounts on its streaming services. Pricing is the same for all subscribers. Watch for promotional offers during holidays or special events, which sometimes reduce the cost of the first month or offer extended free trials.