Have you ever gone to sign into your Apple account, only to realize with a sinking feeling that you can’t remember your Apple ID or password?
Whether you use a MacBook, iPhone, iPad or any other Apple device, your Apple ID is the key to accessing all of Apple’s services and your purchased content.
Losing access to it can be incredibly frustrating, but fortunately, Apple provides several ways to recover your account. In this post, we’ll walk you through the steps to get back into your Apple account as quickly as possible.
First, Try to Recall Your Apple ID
Your Apple ID is usually the email address you used to set up the account. Take a moment to think about which email address you likely used.
Is it your current email or maybe an older one you had when you first got your Apple device?
Check through your email accounts and see if you can find any emails from Apple, such as receipts for iTunes or App Store purchases. Those emails will be sent to the address associated with your Apple ID.
Still Can’t Remember? Check Your Devices
If you’re still not sure about your Apple ID email address, grab your iPhone, iPad or MacBook. On an iPhone or iPad, go to Settings, then tap your name at the top. Your Apple ID email will be listed right there.
On a MacBook, click the Apple menu and select “System Preferences”, then click “Apple ID”. Your account email will be shown in the sidebar.
Recover Your Apple ID Online
If you don’t have access to any of your devices, you can still look up your Apple ID on Apple’s website. Go to appleid.apple.com and click “Forgot Apple ID or password” underneath the sign in box.
Enter your first and last name along with your email address. If you enter the email associated with your Apple ID, Apple will send you an email with your Apple ID information.
Reset Your Password
Once you know your Apple ID, you can reset your password if needed. Return to the Apple ID site and again click “Forgot Apple ID or password”. Enter your Apple ID email address, then select “Reset password”.
You’ll be taken through the steps to verify your identity and reset your password. You can choose to answer your security questions, get an email reset link, or if you have two-factor authentication enabled, use a trusted device to reset it.
Contact Apple Support As a Last Resort
If you’re still having trouble recovering your Apple ID account, it’s time to contact Apple Support directly.
You can start an online chat, schedule a call, or make an appointment at your local Apple Store’s Genius Bar for personalized assistance from an Apple expert.
Don’t Risk Losing Access Again
Once you’re back into your account, make sure you don’t lose access again! Update your Apple ID email address to your current, most used email. Ensure you have a strong, unique password and enable two-factor authentication.
Consider adding one or more trusted phone numbers as well so you can always reset your password even without access to your primary devices.
Losing access to your Apple account can feel catastrophic in our digital age, but by following these steps you should be able to recover your account quickly. Have you ever had to recover a lost Apple ID?
Share your experience or any additional tips in the comments below! And be sure to share this post with your fellow Apple enthusiasts to help them keep their accounts secure.
