Can't Remember Apple ID Password: How to Recover It

If you forgot your Apple ID password, reset it from a trusted Apple device first; if none is available, use Apple’s browser-based recovery process. Apple now calls an Apple ID an Apple Account, but your existing email address or phone number still identifies the same account.

What do I need before resetting my Apple ID password?

A trusted device is an iPhone, iPad, or Mac where you previously signed in to your Apple Account using two-factor authentication. Resetting the password from that device is usually the most direct option because Apple can use its passcode or login password to verify you.

Before beginning Apple ID password recovery, gather whatever applies to your account:

• An Apple device that is already signed in to the account.
• The passcode for that iPhone or iPad, or the login password for that Mac.
• Your Apple Account email address or phone number.
• Access to a trusted phone number that can receive a verification code.
• Access to any recovery email address Apple offers during verification.
• Your physical security keys if you enrolled them with the account.
• Your recovery key if you previously enabled that optional security feature.

A recovery key is a secret code created when you turn on that security option. Enabling it turns off Apple’s standard account recovery process, so losing both the key and trusted access can prevent recovery.

How do I reset my Apple ID password from a trusted device?

You do not need to remember the old Apple ID password when Apple can verify you through a trusted device and its passcode.

On an iPhone or iPad:

1. Open Settings and tap your name.
2. Tap Sign-In & Security.
3. Tap Change Password.
4. Enter the device passcode, then follow the prompts to create a new password.

On a Mac:

1. Open the Apple menu and choose System Settings.
2. Click your name, then select Sign-In & Security.
3. Click Change Password.
4. Enter the password used to unlock the Mac, then follow the onscreen instructions.

If Stolen Device Protection applies, Apple may impose a security delay before allowing a sensitive account change. Follow the time and location instructions displayed on the device rather than repeatedly restarting the reset.

How do I reset my Apple ID password in a browser?

If no trusted device is available, open {site} and find the option for a forgotten Apple Account password. Apple’s browser recovery service may be identified as iforgot.apple.com, and the browser may redirect verification to a trusted device when one is available.

1. Select Reset Password.
2. Enter the email address or phone number associated with your Apple Account.
3. Complete the identity checks shown for your account.
4. Use the verification method offered, such as a trusted device or trusted phone number.
5. Create a new password when Apple confirms your identity.

The available Apple ID password reset steps depend on the security methods already attached to the account. Do not keep guessing codes or account details, because repeated failed attempts can cause additional security checks.

How can I recover an Apple ID without the old phone number or recovery email?

If you cannot use any trusted phone number, select Didn’t Get a Code? or Can’t get to your devices? when that choice appears. Then choose the option stating that you cannot use the listed number and follow the prompts to begin Apple ID account recovery.

Account recovery is Apple’s identity-verification process for people who cannot complete a normal password reset. Provide only information you recognize and can verify. If you previously appointed an account recovery contact, that person may be able to give you a recovery code; the contact cannot view your account or reset the password independently.

After starting recovery on the web, avoid using devices already signed in to that Apple Account because account activity can cancel the request. If recovery was started in Settings, System Settings, or the Apple Support app, Apple says you may continue using that specific device. Follow the instructions Apple sends and do not assume a completion date.

What should I do after resetting my Apple ID password?

1. Sign in again wherever Apple requests the new password, including devices and Apple services tied to the account.
2. Replace the old entry in your password manager or other secure saved-password location.
3. Complete any two-factor authentication prompt using a trusted device, trusted number, or enrolled security key.
4. If Apple asks you to finish or re-enable two-factor authentication, follow the onscreen security review and confirm that the listed numbers and devices belong to you.
5. Remove devices or recovery details you no longer recognize or control.

Do not approve unexpected sign-in requests. A prompt you did not initiate may mean someone else is trying to access the account.

When should I contact Apple Support about a password reset?

Contact Apple Support when the self-service process displays an error it does not explain, the account is shown as locked, inactive, or disabled, or the recovery instructions never reach a method you control. Support can also explain which official recovery route applies when you use security keys, a recovery key, or Advanced Data Protection.

An Apple Support password reset agent cannot simply reveal the old password, bypass identity checks, or guarantee when account recovery will finish. Use the verified support options displayed on this page and never give anyone your password, device passcode, recovery key, or verification code.

Why is my Apple ID password reset not going through?

• The account details do not match: Try other email addresses or phone numbers that may be associated with your Apple Account.
• The verification code never arrives: Confirm that the trusted number can currently receive messages or calls, then use another offered trusted method.
• The account is locked: Stop repeated password guesses and use Apple’s displayed access-recovery instructions.
• A security delay is active: Wait for the device’s stated delay to end and follow its next prompt.
• Account recovery is pending: Avoid account activity that could cancel the request and watch for Apple’s next instruction.
• A recovery key is enabled: Standard account recovery is unavailable; use the recovery key and the other verification information Apple requests.
• A security key is required: Connect or present a physical key already paired with the account when prompted.
• Apple services are unavailable: If sign-in keeps spinning or cannot connect, check Apple’s official system-status information before repeating the reset.