AppleCare is a great investment for your Apple devices. But what happens when you want to sell or give away your device? Can you transfer your AppleCare to the new owner? The good news is in most cases you can.
However, you need to verify if you are able to transfer your AppleCare, as there are specific conditions and eligibility requirements that may affect the transferability based on device type or ownership status.
This guide will walk you through the process of transferring your AppleCare so your device stays protected even when it changes hands.
AppleCare Transferability
Before we get started let’s understand which AppleCare plans can be transferred and when.
AppleCare Plans
Apple offers:
- AppleCare+
- AppleCare Protection Plan
- AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss
Most AppleCare plans can be transferred to a new owner but there are some exceptions and conditions to be aware of.
Conditions for Transfer
- The AppleCare plan must be active and within its coverage period.
- The plan must be paid in full if purchased outright.
- For plans with monthly or annual payments the transfer can only occur if you’ve made all payments up to the transfer date.
- If an AppleCare plan is linked to an Apple ID, it cannot be transferred to a new owner.
How to Transfer Your AppleCare
Transferring your AppleCare involves a few steps. Here’s a step by step guide to help you through the process.
To transfer your AppleCare plan, you need to gather the AppleCare agreement number, device serial number, and proof of coverage. Be aware of the limitations and conditions that may apply, including restrictions based on the type of AppleCare plan and the region. This guide will address common queries and help you understand the process of ownership transfer for devices previously covered under AppleCare.
Step 1: Gather Your Information
Before you start the transfer make sure you have the following information ready:
- Device serial number and other identification details (number of the device)
- AppleCare agreement number
- Proof of coverage (original sales receipt)
- New owner’s name, address, email address and phone number
Step 2: Contact Apple Support
To transfer your AppleCare you’ll need to contact Apple Support. You can do this:
- Apple Support website
- Apple Support app on your iOS device
- Call Apple Support
- Visit an Apple Store in person
Step 3: Request the Transfer
When you contact Apple Support tell them you want to transfer your AppleCare. Provide them with the information you gathered in Step 1.
Step 4: Complete the Transfer
The Apple representative will walk you through the transfer process. This will involve:
- Verifying your identity and ownership of the plan
- Gathering essential details such as the new owner’s name, address, and other contact information
- Updating the AppleCare agreement with the new owner’s information
Step 5: Confirmation
Once the transfer is complete both you and the new owner should receive a confirmation from Apple. The new owner can now use the AppleCare benefits for the remainder of the plan.
Special Cases
There are a few special cases to be aware of when transferring AppleCare.
Monthly or Annual Payments
If you’re maintaining AppleCare coverage through monthly payments or paying annually, the transfer process is a bit different:
- You’ll need to cancel your current plan.
- The new owner will need to buy a new AppleCare plan for the device.
- The new plan’s coverage period will start from the date of this new purchase.
Note that the option to pay monthly is not available for all plans or in all regions.
AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss
AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss cannot be transferred to a new owner. If you have this plan and sell or give away your device you should cancel the plan.
Transferring to a New Device
You cannot transfer AppleCare from one device to another even if you own both devices. AppleCare is tied to the device it was purchased for.
When You Can’t Transfer AppleCare
There are some situations where you can’t transfer your AppleCare:
- If the plan has expired
- If the plan was part of a lease or financing agreement
- If you’ve used all the incidents covered by the plan
In these cases you should cancel your plan if you’re selling or giving away your device.
Cancel AppleCare
If you can’t transfer your AppleCare or if you just want to cancel it here’s how:
- Contact Apple Support through one of the methods above.
- Provide your AppleCare agreement number and device serial number.
- Request to cancel the plan.
For plans paid in full you may be eligible for a prorated refund for the remaining coverage period.
Done
Transferring your AppleCare is easy if you have the right info. Whether you’re selling your device or giving it away transferring AppleCare means the new owner can have the same protection and peace of mind as you.
If you’re not sure about anything contact Apple Support. They can give you the latest info and walk you through the transfer or cancellation process.
Now you know how to transfer AppleCare. Make the most of your investment and sell or give away your device with more value.
