My dad passed away a few months ago, and my sister always wanted his Apple Watch. We want to give it to her, but it’s still locked to my dad’s Apple account. We don’t know his Apple ID or email passwords since his passing was unexpected. I tried using the Watch app on his phone to unlink it, but it still asks for his Apple ID password. Does anyone know a way around this? Any advice would mean a lot.
I’m really sorry for your loss. If you’re in the US, this article might help: How to request access to a deceased family member’s Apple Account - Apple Support (CA)
Clove said:
I’m really sorry for your loss. If you’re in the US, this article might help: How to request access to a deceased family member’s Apple Account - Apple Support (CA)
This is really helpful, thank you so much!
If you can access his phone, you might be able to reset the Apple ID password.
Peyton said:
If you can access his phone, you might be able to reset the Apple ID password.
I hadn’t thought of that! I’ll give it a try. Thanks!
A friend of mine had to show a death certificate at the Apple Store to have a device reset. It’s possible but might take some effort.
Andi said:
A friend of mine had to show a death certificate at the Apple Store to have a device reset. It’s possible but might take some effort.
Good to know. I have an Apple Store nearby, so I’ll check it out. Thanks!
Try calling Apple Support. They were very helpful when my son passed away last year.
Emerson said:
Try calling Apple Support. They were very helpful when my son passed away last year.
I’m so sorry for your loss.
Emerson said:
Try calling Apple Support. They were very helpful when my son passed away last year.
That’s comforting to hear. I’ll give them a call. Thank you.
Doesn’t Apple have a next-of-kin option for accounts? It might be smart for all of us to set that up for our parents.
Peyton said:
Doesn’t Apple have a next-of-kin option for accounts? Might be smart for all of us to set that up for our parents.
Yes, after this happened, my family and I set up legacy contacts. Highly recommend it!
If you have proof of purchase, Apple might be able to erase the watch so it can be used again.
Brooke said:
If you have proof of purchase, Apple might be able to erase the watch so it can be used again.
Is that really true? I’ve heard Apple can be difficult with password recovery, even with proof of purchase.
@Jules
Proof of purchase helps remove the device from the account but won’t recover the Apple ID password.
jugenbison said:
@Jules
Proof of purchase helps remove the device from the account but won’t recover the Apple ID password.
That makes more sense now.
You can use it if you can disconnect it from the Apple ID. Sorry for your loss.
Holt said:
You can use it if you can disconnect it from the Apple ID. Sorry for your loss.
Thank you.