How to Reset Apple ID Password: Step-by-Step Guide 2026

Introduction / Why This Is Needed

Losing your Apple ID password blocks access to key services: the App Store, iCloud, iMessage, FaceTime, and purchases. This guide will help you regain control of your account using Apple's official methods. You can reset your password yourself, without contacting support, if you have access to a trusted device or email.

Requirements / Preparation

Before you begin, ensure you have:

• A trusted device (iPhone, iPad, or Mac) that is already signed in to this Apple ID and has an active internet connection.
• Access to the email or phone number listed as the primary contact or trusted for two-factor authentication (2FA).
• The device must be unlocked (not in "Find My iPhone" mode with an unknown password).
• An up-to-date OS version (iOS 17+/macOS Sonoma 14+ recommended for the best experience).

Step 1: Reset Password via iPhone or iPad Settings

This is the simplest method if the device is already authorized with your Apple ID.

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap your name at the top of the screen.
3. Select Password & Security.
4. Tap Change Password.
5. If the system asks for your current password but you don't remember it, tap Forgot Password?.
6. Select Reset Password on Device.
7. Enter your device passcode (do not confuse this with your Apple ID password).
8. Create a new password (minimum 8 characters, with a number and an uppercase letter) and confirm it.
9. Tap Next or Save. The password is updated instantly.

⚠️ Important: All devices where you were signed in may prompt for the new password to access iCloud and services.

Step 2: Reset Password via Mac

The process is similar to iOS, but the interface differs.

1. Open System Settings (or System Preferences).
2. Click your Apple ID profile at the top.
3. Go to the Password & Security section.
4. Click Change Password.
5. Enter your current password if you know it. If not, the system will offer to reset it via a trusted iPhone/iPad.
6. Set a new password and confirm it.
7. Click Change.

Step 3: Reset Password via iForgot Website (Without Device Access)

Use this method if your device is lost, sold, or you don't remember its passcode.

1. On any browser (phone or computer), go to iforgot.apple.com.
2. Enter your Apple ID (usually an email) and click the arrow.
3. Select Reset password → Next.
4. You will be offered several identity verification options:
   • Get a code on your trusted iPhone/iPad (fastest).
   • Get a code via SMS to your trusted phone number.
   • Answer security questions (if previously set up).
5. Receive the code (6-digit) and enter it on the website.
6. Create a new password (follow complexity requirements) and confirm it.
7. Click Reset password. Done!

Step 4: Alternative Method — Reset via Another Browser Tab

If you are still signed in to iCloud.com or another Apple website in your browser, you can change the password directly from there.

1. Go to iCloud.com and sign in (if the session is active, no password entry will be required).
2. Click your account name in the top-right corner → Account Settings.
3. In the Security section, click Change Password.
4. Enter your current password (if the browser remembers it) or use the option to reset via a trusted device.
5. Set a new password and save.

Verify the Result

1. Try signing in to the App Store or iCloud on any device with the new password.
2. Check if login notifications appear on other devices (this indicates successful session updates).
3. Update the password in your mail settings on your computer if you used your Apple ID as an email address.
4. Ensure iMessage and FaceTime services are working.

Potential Issues

Issue: When attempting a reset, the message "Could not verify your identity" appears. Solution: Ensure you are using a trusted device (the one previously signed in) and that it has an internet connection. Try obtaining the recovery code on another device associated with the same Apple ID.

Issue: No access to email and the trusted iPhone. Solution: The only option is to contact Apple Support. Go to apple.com/support, select "Apple ID" → "Recover password". Verify your identity using security questions (if set up) or by providing information about recent purchases.

Issue: After resetting the password, devices keep asking for the old password. Solution: This is due to cached sessions. Restart the device. If that doesn't help, sign out of your Apple ID in Settings and sign back in with the new password (this may require entering your device passcode).

Issue: Unable to reset the password because the account is security-locked. Solution: Follow the on-screen instructions. Often, you must wait 24 hours after the last account activity before you can reset the password. This is a protection against unauthorized access.