There are many reasons why someone might want to delete or deactivate their Apple account. Perhaps you are switching to a new phone or operating system, or maybe you are just looking for a fresh start.
Whatever your reason, Apple gives you the flexibility to either permanently delete your account or temporarily deactivate it. This article will guide you through both processes step-by-step.
Important Things to Know Before You Begin
Before we dive in, it's crucial to understand the difference between deleting and deactivating your Apple account. Deleting your account is permanent. Once you complete the deletion process, you'll lose access to all your Apple data, including:
- Contacts
- Photos
- Files
- iCloud storage
- Apple services like Messages, FaceTime, Find My, and Apple Music
- Any purchases you've made through the App Store
Backing Up Your Data
If you decide to delete your account, it's essential to back up your data first. This way, you won't lose any important information or files. Here's how to back up your iCloud data:
- Download a copy of your photos and videos.
- Create a copy of any other important files you have stored in iCloud.
Permanently Deleting Your Apple Account
Once you have backed up your data, follow these steps to permanently delete your Apple account:
- Visit Apple's Data and Privacy website () and sign in with your Apple ID.
- If you have two-factor authentication (2FA) enabled, you'll receive a verification code on your other Apple devices. Enter the code to proceed.
- You'll be directed to the "Manage your data" page. Scroll down and click on "Request to delete your account" under the "Delete your account" section.
- Select a reason for deleting your account from the dropdown menu and click "Continue".
- Carefully review the information on the next screen and click "Continue" again to confirm.
- You'll then need to review and agree to the Deletion Terms and Conditions. Once you've done so, click "Continue".
- Apple will ask you how you'd like to receive updates about your account deletion. Choose your preferred method and click "Continue".
- You'll receive a 12-digit access code to verify your identity. Keep this code safe in case you change your mind before Apple completes the deletion process. To cancel the deletion, contact Apple Support and provide them with the access code.
- Finally, click the red "Delete Account" button and then "Sign Out".
It can take up to a week for Apple to completely delete your account. During this time, your account will still be active, but some Apple apps that rely on iCloud data may not function properly. To avoid any issues, make sure to sign out of all your Apple devices before your account is deleted.
Deactivating Your Apple Account
If you want to permanently delete your Apple account, you can deactivate it instead. Deactivating your account allows you to take a break from Apple services without losing your data. Here's what you need to know about deactivating your account:
- Your data will remain intact while your account is deactivated.
- You won't be able to access your iCloud data or use Apple services during the deactivation period.
- Any App Store subscriptions you have will not be renewed while your account is deactivated.
To deactivate your Apple account, follow these steps:
- Visit Apple's Data and Privacy website () and sign in with your Apple ID.
- If you have two-factor authentication (2FA) enabled, you'll receive a verification code on your other Apple devices. Enter the code to proceed.
- You'll be directed to the "Manage your data" page. Scroll down and click on "Request to deactivate your account" under the "Temporarily deactivate your account" section.
- Choose a reason for deactivating your account from the dropdown menu and click "Continue."
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the deactivation process.
Reactivating Your Apple Account
If you decide to reactivate your Apple account after deactivating it, all you need to do is contact Apple Support. They will be able to help you restore your account and access your data.
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