Apple ID is essential for accessing Apple services like iCloud, the App Store, iMessage, and Apple Music. However, there may be situations where you want to delete your Apple ID permanently, whether due to privacy concerns, switching to a different ecosystem, or simply wanting a fresh start.
Deleting an Apple ID is a serious decision, as it removes all associated data, including purchases, subscriptions, and stored files in iCloud. This guide explains how to permanently delete an Apple ID, what happens after deletion, and alternative options if you just want to deactivate or remove Apple ID from specific devices.
What Happens When You Delete Your Apple ID
Before deleting your Apple ID, it is important to understand what happens:
- You will lose access to all Apple services linked to that Apple ID, including iCloud, iMessage, FaceTime, the App Store, and Apple Music.
- Any purchases made with the Apple ID, such as apps, music, movies, and subscriptions, will no longer be available.
- All iCloud data, including photos, videos, backups, and emails, will be permanently deleted.
- You will be signed out from all devices using the Apple ID.
- You will not be able to use the same email address to create a new Apple ID in the future.
If you are sure about deleting your Apple ID, follow the steps below.
How to Delete Your Apple ID Permanently
Apple provides an official way to delete an Apple ID through its Data & Privacy portal.
Sign in to Apple’s Data & Privacy Portal
- Open a web browser and go to privacy.apple.com.
- Sign in using the Apple ID you want to delete.
- Complete any two-factor authentication requests.
Request to Delete Your Account
- Under Manage Your Data, select Delete Your Account.
- Read the details about what will be lost when deleting the account.
- Choose a reason for deleting the Apple ID (optional).
- Click Continue.
Review Important Information
- Apple will provide information about what will be lost after deletion.
- Review the terms and conditions of deletion.
- Choose how to receive account status updates (email or phone number).
- Click Continue.
Confirm Deletion Request
- Apple will provide a unique access code. Save this code in case you need to contact Apple Support about the deletion request.
- Click Delete Account.
- Apple will process the request, which may take up to seven days.
Sign Out from All Devices
- Sign out of the Apple ID on all iPhones, iPads, MacBooks, and other Apple devices.
- Once the deletion is processed, the Apple ID will no longer be accessible.
How to Remove Apple ID from an iPhone Without Deleting It
If you want to remove an Apple ID from a specific device without deleting the account, follow these steps:
Sign Out of Apple ID on iPhone or iPad
- Open Settings on the iPhone or iPad.
- Tap your Apple ID profile at the top.
- Scroll down and tap Sign Out.
- Enter the Apple ID password to disable Find My iPhone.
- Choose whether to keep or delete iCloud data on the device.
- Tap Sign Out again to confirm.
This removes the Apple ID from the device but does not delete the account permanently.
Remove Apple ID from a Mac
- Open System Settings on macOS.
- Click your Apple ID in the sidebar.
- Scroll down and select Sign Out.
- Enter the Apple ID password to disable Find My Mac.
- Confirm the sign-out process.
How to Deactivate an Apple ID Instead of Deleting It
If you want to temporarily disable your Apple ID instead of deleting it, Apple allows account deactivation.
Steps to Deactivate an Apple ID
- Go to privacy.apple.com and sign in.
- Click Request to Deactivate Your Account.
- Follow the on-screen instructions and confirm deactivation.
Deactivation allows you to restore the account later, unlike deletion, which is permanent.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Can’t Delete Apple ID Due to Active Subscriptions
If the Apple ID has active subscriptions such as Apple Music or iCloud storage, it cannot be deleted until the subscriptions are canceled.
How to Cancel Apple Subscriptions
- Open Settings on iPhone or iPad.
- Tap your Apple ID profile.
- Select Subscriptions.
- Cancel any active subscriptions.
After canceling, wait for the billing period to end before deleting the Apple ID.
Apple ID Cannot Be Deleted Due to Find My iPhone
Find My iPhone must be turned off before deleting an Apple ID.
How to Turn Off Find My iPhone
- Open Settings on iPhone or iPad.
- Tap Apple ID > Find My.
- Select Find My iPhone and turn it off.
- Enter the Apple ID password to confirm.
Forgot Apple ID Password
If the Apple ID password is forgotten, it must be reset before deletion.
How to Reset Apple ID Password
- Go to iforgot.apple.com.
- Enter the Apple ID email address.
- Follow the instructions to reset the password.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I delete my Apple ID and create a new one with the same email
No, once an Apple ID is deleted, its associated email address cannot be used to create a new Apple ID.
How long does it take to delete an Apple ID
It takes up to seven days for Apple to fully process an account deletion request.
What happens to my purchases after deleting Apple ID
All purchases, including apps, music, movies, and subscriptions, will no longer be accessible. Any paid content will need to be repurchased with a new Apple ID.
Can I recover a deleted Apple ID
No, once Apple deletes an Apple ID, it cannot be recovered. This is why Apple provides a unique access code before deletion, in case users change their minds before the process is complete.
Should I back up my data before deleting my Apple ID
Yes, backing up all important data is highly recommended. Use iCloud, an external hard drive, or another storage method to save important files before deleting an Apple ID.
Deleting an Apple ID is a permanent decision that removes access to Apple services, purchases, and iCloud storage. If deletion is necessary, using Apple’s official Data & Privacy portal ensures a smooth process.
For users who only need to remove an Apple ID from a device without deleting it, signing out in Settings is the best option. Those who want a temporary solution can choose account deactivation instead.
Carefully considering the consequences and backing up data before deleting an Apple ID can help avoid losing important information permanently.