License & Subscription Issues

How to Opt Out of Copilot and Change Microsoft 365 Plans

Partner Editor Sep 27, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user wants to remove Copilot AI features and credits from their current Microsoft 365 subscription by switching to a Basic or Classic plan.

How to Opt Out of Copilot and Change Microsoft 365 Plans

Product: Microsoft 365
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Downgrading an active Microsoft 365 subscription plan to avoid paying for or using AI and Copilot features.
Observed behavior: The current subscription includes Copilot and AI credits, and the goal state is to transition back to a traditional plan without these AI integrations.

Before you start

Ensure you have the login credentials for the Microsoft account associated with your active Microsoft 365 subscription before making changes.

Solution 1Recommended

Switch to a Basic or Classic Plan via Microsoft Account

Manage your Microsoft 365 subscription directly through the Microsoft account dashboard to opt out of Copilot.

Depending on your region, Microsoft offers Classic or Basic plans that do not include Copilot AI features. Note that plan changes typically take effect at the end of your current billing cycle.

Sign in to Microsoft Account

Navigate to account.microsoft.com in your web browser and sign in using the email address linked to your Microsoft 365 subscription.

Access Subscriptions

Click on 'Services & subscriptions' from the top navigation menu or your main dashboard to view your active plans.

Manage Current Subscription

Locate your current Microsoft 365 plan in the list and click on the 'Manage' button next to it.

Change Plan

Review the available options and select a 'Basic' or 'Classic' plan that explicitly excludes Copilot or AI credits. Follow the on-screen instructions to confirm the downgrade or cancellation.

Switch to a Basic or Classic Plan via Microsoft Account

Renewal Timing: Your new plan features and updated billing rate will usually take effect on your next subscription renewal date, not immediately.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Switch to WPS Office for a Cost-Effective, Copilot-Free Experience

If you are looking for a powerful productivity suite without forced AI subscriptions or expensive monthly fees, WPS Office provides a free, lightweight, and highly compatible alternative to Microsoft 365.

1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and download the free installer for your operating system.
2. Install the Suite: Run the setup file and follow the quick on-screen instructions to install WPS Office on your device.
3. Open Existing Documents: Launch WPS Office and directly open your existing Microsoft Office files with full layout preservation and compatibility.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint formats (.docx, .xlsx, .pptx).Free to use without mandatory AI feature subscriptions or expensive renewals.Lightweight installation with all office tools integrated into a single tabbed interface.Available across Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android for seamless migration.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I lose my files if I switch to a Microsoft 365 Classic plan?

No, your files stored locally or on OneDrive remain safe. However, if your new plan has less OneDrive storage capacity, ensure your total file size does not exceed the new limit.

Can I get a refund for the remaining time on my Copilot subscription?

Typically, Microsoft schedules plan changes to take effect at your next renewal date, meaning partial refunds are not standard. Check Microsoft's specific cancellation policy in your region for any exceptions.

What is the difference between Microsoft 365 with Copilot and a Classic plan?

Microsoft 365 with Copilot includes AI credits and integrated AI generation features directly within apps like Word and Excel. Classic or Basic plans offer the standard Office applications without these AI integrations or the associated additional costs.