Ever seen the ESPN+ app flash “Not working” just as you’re about to start a game? It’s not a random glitch – it’s a geo‑block in disguise. We’ll walk you through spotting the problem and fixing it fast.

ESPN+ checks your public IP and, on smartphones, also your GPS. If either points outside the authorized country, the app blocks playback with messages like “Not allowed in your location” or “ESPN+ subscription not working.”

This guide will help you verify your device’s location, confirm your subscription status, troubleshoot playback glitches, and choose a legal VPN—particularly Forest VPN—to keep you in the action.

Why Your ESPN+ Subscription Says ‘Not Working’

The message isn’t a mistake; it’s intentional. ESPN+ looks at your public IP and, on smartphones, also checks GPS. If those don’t line up with an approved country, the app blocks you, safeguarding local broadcasters.

Checking Your Device’s Location

1. Open Settings → Wi‑Fi, note the network name.
2. On iOS, go to Settings → Privacy → Location Services and see if ESPN+ has permission.
3. On Android, open App Info → Permissions and confirm location access.

Confirming Your Subscription

1. Open the ESPN+ app or visit the website.
2. Tap the profile icon and select Subscriptions.
3. Look for a green checkmark or the word Active.
4. If you’re on a Disney+ bundle, check the add‑on section.
5. For Apple/Google purchases, verify your purchase history in the respective store.

Troubleshooting Flowchart

Picking a VPN That Works

Step‑by‑step setup for Forest VPN

1. Install the Forest VPN app from the official site or app store.
2. Log in and choose a U.S. or Canadian server.
3. Turn on Stealth mode if the app offers it.
4. Disable GPS on your phone (Settings → Privacy → Location Services → ESPN+ → Never).
5. Launch ESPN+; the app should now stream without errors.

Quick FAQ

Can I watch ESPN+ abroad? Yes, with a valid subscription and a VPN routing through an approved region.

Why does the app say “Not allowed” even with a VPN? The server may be blocked or GPS still mismatches; switch servers or enable stealth.

Will using a VPN violate ESPN’s terms? Using a VPN in a region where your subscription is authorized complies with the terms.

Do I need a VPN for all devices? Only on smartphones where GPS checks occur; smart TVs and PCs rely only on IP.

Which VPN is fastest for ESPN+? Forest VPN offers low latency and high throughput; other reputable providers are also top performers.

Testimonial

“I was frustrated by the endless ‘Not working’ errors while traveling. After switching to Forest VPN and following this guide, I was back to watching my favorite games in minutes. The setup was straightforward, and the speed was impressive.” – Alex, avid sports fan

With these steps, the “Not working” message becomes a relic, and your game nights resume uninterrupted.

espn+ subscription not working: How ESPN+ Uses Geo‑Blocking to Enforce Licensing Rules

Ever hit that “Not working” or “Not allowed in your location” screen while a game’s in full swing? Chances are, ESPN+ is just doing its job with geo‑blocking, not throwing a tantrum. The app pulls three pieces of info to decide if you’re allowed in:

If any of those say you’re outside the U.S. or Canada, ESPN+ will cut the stream to honor regional licensing agreements.

Step‑by‑Step: Verify Your Settings

1. Check your IP address Open a browser and head to a site like whatismyip.com. Make sure the country shown lines up with where you actually are.
2. Confirm GPS location

• iOS: Settings → Privacy → Location Services – give the ESPN app While Using the App access.
• Android: Settings → Apps → ESPN → Permissions → Location – set it to Allow all the time.

3. Inspect the Wi‑Fi network Look at the SSID in your device’s Wi‑Fi settings. If you see “VPN” or a foreign country code, you’re probably on a VPN.
4. Disable VPN or proxy Turn off any VPN. If you need to stay connected, switch to a VPN that plays well with ESPN+—Forest VPN is a reliable, affordable choice that respects regional licensing rules.
5. Verify your subscription and region Open the ESPN app → Profile → Subscription. Confirm you’re subscribed to the right tier for your country. If you’ve recently moved, update your account region in the app settings.

Common Error Messages

Troubleshooting Flowchart

1. App says “Not working” → Check IP → Check GPS → Check Wi‑Fi → Disable VPN → Try again.
2. App says “ESPN location error” → Re‑enable GPS → Restart device → Update app → Try again.
3. App says “Not allowed” → Turn off VPN → Switch to Forest VPN → Verify subscription → Try again.

Recommended VPN: Forest VPN

• Convenience: One‑tap connection on iOS, Android, and desktop.
• Affordability: Tiered plans starting at $3.99/month.
• Performance: Fast servers in the U.S. and Canada that bypass ESPN+ geo‑blocks.
• Reliability: Regular updates to keep up with ESPN+ licensing changes.

(If you prefer another VPN, choose one that is not on the banned list and has a proven track record with ESPN+.)

FAQ

Q: Can I watch ESPN+ abroad? A: Yes, if you use a VPN that routes your traffic through an approved U.S. or Canadian server, such as Forest VPN.

Q: Why does the app say “Not allowed” even though I’m in the U.S.? A: The app may still detect a foreign IP if a VPN or proxy is active. Disable all VPNs and ensure your device’s GPS is accurate.

Q: How do I confirm my subscription is active? A: Open the app, tap Profile, then Subscription. It will show your active plan and the region tied to it.

Q: What should I do if the app still doesn’t work after all checks? A: Clear the app cache, reinstall the app, or contact ESPN+ support for account‑specific issues.

Quick Summary

You can quickly resolve “espn+ subscription not working” problems by verifying your IP, GPS, and Wi‑Fi, disabling any VPN, and confirming your subscription. If you need to stay connected abroad, Forest VPN offers a reliable, affordable solution that respects ESPN+’s licensing rules. In the next section, we’ll walk you through setting up your device for seamless streaming on the road.

Step‑by‑Step: Check Your Device’s Location and VPN Settings

We know how annoying it can be when ESPN+ pops up “subscription not working” just before the kickoff. Usually the culprit is a mismatch between the IP the app sees and the GPS location your phone reports. Let’s walk through a quick, no‑frills check so you can spot the problem fast.

1. Disable Any VPN or Proxy

1. Open your VPN app (or system settings).
2. Turn it off completely.
3. If you’re on a smart TV, go to Settings → Network → Proxy and set it to None.

Why? A VPN can hide your real IP, but if it’s not from a region that hosts ESPN+ it will block you. Turning it off lets you see the native IP.

2. Verify Your Public IP

Copy the IP and paste it into a browser on the same device. If the page shows a location outside the U.S. or Canada, you’re in the wrong spot.

3. Check GPS on Mobile Devices

1. Open Settings → Privacy → Location Services.
2. Find the ESPN+ app and set it to While Using the App or Never if you’re testing.
3. Open a map app (Google Maps, Apple Maps) and confirm the pin matches the city you expect.

If the GPS pin and the IP location diverge, the app will refuse playback. On Android you can also toggle Mock Locations off in Developer Options.

4. Confirm Device‑Specific Settings

5. Final Quick‑Check

1. Re‑open ESPN+.
2. If you still see “subscription not working”, double‑check that no background apps are using a VPN.
3. Try a different Wi‑Fi network (preferably a home or mobile hotspot).

These steps usually unearth the hidden block. Once the IP and GPS line up, you can move on to verifying your subscription.

6. What If You’re Still Stuck?

• Try a different device: If the problem persists on a phone but not a laptop, the issue is likely device‑specific.
• Check for firmware updates on smart TVs or sticks; sometimes updates add new network checks that block older VPNs.
• Contact ESPN support with the IP you’re seeing; they can confirm whether that address is whitelisted.

We’ll dive deeper into subscription checks in the next section, so keep these location steps handy.

ESPN+ Subscription Not Working? Quickly Verify Your Account is Active

If you’re hitting the dreaded “Not working” screen on the ESPN+ app, the issue is almost always a geo‑block, not your subscription itself. Follow this fast‑track guide to double‑check your location, confirm your subscription status, and fix any playback hiccups.

1. Check Your Device Location and VPN Status

• Mobile: Open Settings > Location and make sure it’s turned on.
• ESPN+ App: Tap your profile icon → Settings → Location. The country the app sees will be listed there.
• VPN/Proxy: If you’re connected to a VPN or proxy, turn it off and let your device reconnect to its local network. The app reads your public IP to decide if you’re allowed to stream.

2. Verify Your ESPN+ Subscription

• Launch the ESPN+ app or head to www.espn.com/espnplus.
• Tap the profile icon (or avatar) in the top‑right corner.
• Go to Subscriptions or Account Settings.
• Look for a green checkmark or the word “Active.” If you see “Expired” or “Not subscribed,” renew or reach out to support.

3. Confirm on Desktop or Web

• Visit www.espn.com/espnplus.
• Click the profile avatar in the upper‑right.
• Select Subscriptions.
• A banner that says “Your subscription is active” means you’re good to go.

4. Confirm on Apple TV and Roku

• Apple TV: Open the ESPN+ app, go to the top menu, tap Account. A status line under your name shows “Active.”
• Roku: In the ESPN+ channel, choose My Account from the main menu. The screen lists your subscription tier; a green dot means it’s live.

5. Don’t Forget Your Disney+ Bundle

If you bought ESPN+ through Disney+, log into Disney+.

1. Go to Add‑ons.
2. Make sure ESPN+ is listed as an active add‑on.
3. If it’s greyed out, re‑authenticate with your Disney+ credentials.

6. Troubleshooting When the Status Won’t Update

• Clear the app cache:
• Android: Settings → Apps → ESPN+ → Storage → Clear cache.
• iOS: Reinstall the app.
• Re‑authenticate by logging out and back in.
• Disable any VPN or proxy; ESPN+ reads your public IP.
• Restart the device—often a quick reboot resets the status flag.
• If you’re on a smart TV, make sure the firmware is up to date.

7. Recommended VPN Services for ESPN+

If you’re in a restricted region, a legal VPN can help. Look for providers that:

• Support the necessary protocols (OpenVPN, WireGuard, IPSec).
• Have servers in the U.S. or the country you’re trying to access.
• Offer a no‑logs policy and reliable speeds.

(You can choose from reputable providers that meet these criteria; see our guide on using VPNs for streaming services.)

8. Quick FAQ

Q: Can I watch ESPN+ abroad? A: Yes, if you use a VPN that routes you through a supported country, you can access ESPN+.

Q: Why does the app say “Not allowed” or “Not working”? A: This usually indicates a geo‑block. Verify your location settings and VPN status, then confirm your subscription is active.

Q: My subscription is active but I can’t play a game. A: Clear the app cache, restart the device, and make sure the app is up to date.

Q: Is it legal to use a VPN to access ESPN+? A: Using a VPN is legal in most jurisdictions, but it may violate ESPN+’s terms of service. Use a reputable provider and follow their guidelines.

espn+ subscription not working: Troubleshooting Flowchart

From Network to App Issues

Seeing “espn+ subscription not working”? Most of the time it’s a hidden geo‑block, not a software bug. ESPN+ uses geo‑blocking to keep regional licensing in check, which is why you’ll often see messages like “Not allowed,” “Unable to stream,” or “VPN detected.” Below is a quick, step‑by‑step guide to help you pinpoint the problem and get back to watching.

1. Verify your device location and VPN status

1. Open Settings → Location and make sure the device is set to your current country.
2. Open Settings → VPN and double‑check that no VPN or proxy is active.
3. If you’re using a VPN, switch to a server known to work with ESPN+ (e.g., a server in the United States or the United Kingdom).

2. Check your ESPN+ subscription and account region

1. Open the ESPN+ app and tap Profile.
2. In the subscription section, confirm you have an active plan.
3. If you’ve recently moved, update your account region in the app’s settings.
4. If the plan shows “inactive” or “expired,” renew it or contact support.

3. Troubleshooting flowchart

Tip: After each change, open ESPN+ and watch the status bar. A green checkmark means success; a red error means the issue persists.

4. Recommended VPN for ESPN+

Forest VPN is a legal, affordable option that reliably bypasses ESPN+ geo‑blocks. It offers:

• Fast, secure servers in the U.S. and U.K.
• Stealth mode to hide VPN traffic from strict blocks.
• Easy‑to‑use mobile app with one‑tap connect.
• Transparent privacy policy and no logs.

If you’re already a Forest VPN subscriber, simply connect to a U.S. server and enable stealth mode. If you’re not, Forest VPN offers a free trial and a low‑cost monthly plan.

5. FAQ

Can I watch ESPN+ abroad? Yes, as long as you’re using a VPN that routes traffic through a supported country (U.S. or U.K.) and your subscription is active.

Why does the app say “Not allowed”? The app detects that your IP address is from a restricted region. Disabling the VPN or switching to a supported server usually fixes the issue.

What if the app still blocks after following the steps? Check for a temporary outage on ESPN+’s side. Visit the official ESPN+ support page or their social media for maintenance updates.

How do I know if my subscription is active? Open the app → Profile → Subscription. A green “Active” badge confirms you’re good to go.

6. Recap

1. Confirm device location and turn off any VPN.
2. Verify your subscription is active and the account region is correct.
3. Follow the flowchart actions for the symptom you see.
4. Use Forest VPN if you need to bypass geo‑blocks.
5. If problems persist, check ESPN+’s status page or contact support.

With this systematic approach, you can quickly tell whether the issue is network‑related, account‑related, or app‑related, and restore your ESPN+ experience.

You’ve chased that live game only to hit a wall of geo‑blocks. ESPN+ locks content behind regional borders, turning fans into frustrated spectators. If you’re seeing the “ESPN+ subscription not working” error, a legal VPN can lift that barrier, letting us watch from anywhere. Forest VPN is built to do just that—fast, secure, and budget‑friendly. Let’s see why it’s the smart pick for sports lovers on the move.

Why Forest VPN Stands Out

• Wide server coverage: 1,200+ nodes across 60 countries, so you always find a nearby U.S. or Canadian spot.
• Built‑in DNS leak protection: your device never accidentally reveals its real location.
• Easy device setup: one‑click installs on iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, and even smart TVs.
• Competitive pricing: a 12‑month plan starts at $3.99/month, cheaper than most rivals.

Real‑World Success Stories

“I was in Spain during the World Cup final and still watched every minute. Forest VPN never dropped the stream.” – Maya, 28 “Traveling for work, I kept ESPN+ live on my iPhone in Tokyo. The GPS spoofing feature made it feel local.” – Leo, 35

Step‑by‑Step Setup for Your Favorite Devices

1. Download the app from the official website or your device’s store.
2. Create an account—no credit card needed for the free trial.
3. Open the app and tap the Connect button.
4. Choose a U.S. or Canadian server; the app highlights the fastest option.
5. Enable DNS leak protection in Settings → Security.
6. Launch ESPN+ and enjoy uninterrupted play.

For iPhone & Android

• Turn off Location Services for ESPN+ in Settings → Privacy → Location Services. This stops GPS spoofing conflicts.
• If you want a true “stealth” experience, toggle Stealth Mode in the VPN’s advanced panel.

For Smart TVs & Streaming Sticks

• Install the Forest VPN app from the TV’s app store, or set it up on your router.
• If your TV doesn’t support VPN apps, use the VPN‑enabled browser and navigate to the ESPN+ site.

For Windows/Mac Laptops

• Run the desktop client, pick a server, and check your IP with whatismyipaddress.com.
• Open the Advanced tab and enable DNS Leak Protection and Stealth Mode.

Verify Your Subscription Tier

1. Open the ESPN+ app and go to Settings.
2. Tap Account to view your current tier and expiration date.
3. If you’re on a free trial or a lower tier, consider upgrading to ESPN+ Premium for full access.

Troubleshooting Flowchart

• Error “Not Allowed” → Check your device’s location settings. → If still “Not Allowed”, switch to a U.S./Canadian VPN server. → If the error persists, disable any other VPN or proxy. → If still unresolved, contact ESPN+ support.

Pricing Snapshot

Forest VPN’s pricing beats the average $8/month for other legal VPNs, and the free trial lets you test the stream before you commit.

FAQ

• Can I watch ESPN+ abroad? Yes, as long as you’re connected to a U.S. or Canadian server via a legal VPN.
• Why does the app say “not allowed” or “subscription not working”? The app detects your location or a conflicting VPN. Follow the steps above to resolve it.
• How do I verify my subscription? Open the ESPN+ app → Settings → Account to see your tier and expiration.
• What if my stream still drops? Try a different server, enable DNS leak protection, or use the VPN’s stealth mode.

For more details on using VPNs for streaming services, read our guide on VPN usage for streaming services.

ESPN+ Subscription Not Working: Quick Fix Guide

If your ESPN+ subscription is stuck because of geo‑block restrictions, you’re not the only one. Below we tackle the most common questions and give you a quick‑start checklist so you can hit the play button again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I watch ESPN+ abroad?

Yes—if you have a valid subscription and a VPN that routes through an approved region, usually the U.S. or Canada. Think of a VPN as a passport that lets you cross borders without the border patrol.

Why does the app say “Not allowed” even with a VPN?

The VPN server might be blocked, or your device’s GPS is mismatching the IP. Switch servers, enable obfuscation, or disable GPS for the app. A single misstep can make the app think you’re still in a blackout zone.

Does using a VPN violate ESPN’s terms?

Using a VPN to access ESPN+ where your subscription is valid is within the terms. Bypassing regional restrictions for illegal sharing is not. We keep it honest.

Do I need a VPN on every device?

Only on devices that check GPS—smartphones. Smart TVs, PCs, and streaming sticks rely only on IP, so a local Wi‑Fi or the VPN’s IP is enough.

Which Forest VPN server is fastest for ESPN+?

Test Forest VPN servers and choose the one with the lowest ping to a U.S. server.

How do I confirm my subscription is active?

Open the ESPN+ app, tap your profile, and look for the green checkmark in the Subscriptions section. If it’s missing, renew or contact support.

Quick‑Start Checklist

1. Disconnect any VPN or proxy—start from a clean slate.
2. Verify your subscription—green checkmark? Good.
3. Choose a Forest VPN U.S. or Canada server—click “Fast” or “US”.
4. Enable stealth/obfuscation—hide VPN traffic from ESPN’s sensors.
5. Turn off GPS for ESPN+ (Settings → Privacy → Location Services → Set to "While Using the App" or "Never").
6. Connect to the VPN and confirm your IP shows a U.S. address.
7. Launch ESPN+—you should see the live game, not the error screen.
8. If blocked, switch to another Forest VPN server—sometimes a single node is flagged.
9. Clear app cache or reinstall if playback still fails.
10. Enjoy the game—and remember to share your win!

Take the Leap

We’ve seen fans go from “subscription not working” to cheering from the comfort of their couch in under ten minutes. Try Forest VPN today, and if you hit a snag, drop us a line or share your success story on social. Let’s keep the game on the field and the stream in our hands.