LinkedIn Updates Premium Trial Eligibility Rules, Closes “Loophole”

LinkedIn has clarified its Premium trial eligibility rules, addressing concerns over users repeatedly accessing free trials. The update to its information page outlines stricter criteria for who can qualify for a trial of the platform’s paid subscription service, closing an assumed loophole that didn’t actually exist outside of the wording of the page – the implication that users could repeatedly take on free trials.

The updated guidelines state that users who have already used a free Premium trial may not be eligible for another, even if more than a year has passed since their last trial. Additionally, trial eligibility is determined by multiple factors, meaning not all LinkedIn users will have access to free trials. The company also specified that switching between different Premium plans during the trial period is not allowed.

The clarification suggests that LinkedIn has seen some users attempting to repeatedly access free trials, prompting the platform to reinforce its policies. With 175 million paying subscribers, LinkedIn Premium is one of the most successful subscription services among social media platforms, surpassing offerings from X (formerly Twitter), Snapchat, and even YouTube Premium.

Premium memberships provide benefits such as enhanced job search tools, improved profile visibility, and expanded networking opportunities, making it a key revenue stream for the platform. As a result, LinkedIn continues to actively promote Premium subscriptions, frequently encouraging users to upgrade or reactivate their membership.