Forgot Apple ID Password, Reset It or Start Account Recovery

Apple ID is now called Apple Account, and you still sign in with the same email address or phone number and password. The fastest reset uses a device where you are already signed in, and the web reset at iforgot.apple.com works from any browser when no trusted device is nearby.

The recovery, in order

  1. If you have a trusted device, reset it there: on iPhone or iPad, open Settings, tap your name, then Sign-In and Security, then Change Password, and confirm with the device passcode.
  2. Without a trusted device, open iforgot.apple.com in any browser and select Reset Password.
  3. Enter the email address or phone number for the Apple Account and follow the on-screen steps.
  4. Confirm the phone number on the account if asked, then enter the verification code sent to a trusted device or trusted phone number.
  5. If a trusted device is available, approve the request on it and enter that device's passcode, then create a new password.
Apple never calls to ask for a password or a verification code, so hang up on anyone who does. Only enter codes at iforgot.apple.com or on your own device, and never share a password or a verification code with anyone, including someone claiming to be support. You can also reset a password from the Apple Support app on a borrowed device, under Support Tools, Reset Password, Help Someone Else.

If the usual reset doesn't work

If you set up a 28-character recovery key in advance, the reset flow lets you enter it with a code sent to your trusted phone number. If you set up a recovery contact, that person can give you a 6-digit code. With none of those available, account recovery is the last resort: start it at iforgot.apple.com, and expect a wait of several days or more. Apple sends a confirmation within 72 hours with the date you can expect access back, and the wait cannot be shortened. Turn off other devices signed in with the account while recovery runs, because using one cancels the request. You can check the status any time at iforgot.apple.com.

How to avoid getting locked out again

Keep the trusted phone number current, add a recovery contact, save a recovery key somewhere safe if you use one, and keep at least one trusted device signed in.

Common questions

What is the fastest way to reset an Apple ID password? On a device where you are already signed in: Settings, your name, Sign-In and Security, Change Password, confirmed with the device passcode. The web reset is the next fastest route.

How long does Apple account recovery take? Several days or more. Apple sends a confirmation within 72 hours with the expected date, and contacting support cannot speed it up.

What is a recovery key? A 28-character code you set up in advance. It lets you reset the password without a trusted device, together with a code sent to your trusted phone number.

Related guides

Forgot Gmail Password · Forgot Microsoft Account Password · Forgot Facebook Password · Password Generator

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