How to Remove Google Vault Licenses From Google Workspace Users to Stop Archiving User Data

What happens when you remove a Google Vault license from a user

To disconnect a user from Google Vault and stop paying for their license, you must remove the Vault license from the user’s account.
Note that their data will no longer be stored in Google Vault.

When you can remove Google Vault licenses

This is only applicable if you are on G Suite Basic or Google Workspace Business Starter – all other plans include Google Vault by default, and all users always have it.

How to remove Google Vault licenses from users step-by-step with images

Step 1

In the Google Admin console at https://admin.google.com, click the Users icon.

Step 2

Click Add a filter just above the users list.

Step 3

Select the Assigned license filter.

Step 4

Select the Google Vault license type, and click APPLY.

Step 5

Now you’ll see all users who currently have a Google Vault license assigned to them.

Select all users whose Vault license you want to remove by checking the boxes to their left. Then click More on top and select Remove licenses.

Step 6

Select Google Vault and click REMOVE.

Step 7

Confirm that you’re aware of the impact of removing Vault licenses by clicking PROCEED.

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Activate Google Vault (Google Workspace Business Starter Only)

Add Google Vault to a Business Starter account.

Assign Google Vault Licenses to Users

Assign Vault licenses to archive user data.

What is Google Vault: Introduction to Get Started

Meet Google Vault – an eDiscovery service for companies that need to archive data for legal compliance. Use it to retain, search, and export users’ Google Workspace data.