Did a message say your Apple ID is disabled? If so, you aren’t alone! When it comes to the security of your Apple ID account, Apple takes things very seriously, which often results in disabling your account by mistake.
Don’t worry! There are a few ways you can unlock a disabled Apple ID. You might need to generate a two-factor authentication code, answer security questions, or contact Apple Support. We’ve explained all you need to know below.
When Apple disables your Apple ID account it means you can’t sign in or use it for any Apple services, including iCloud, Apple Music, or the App Store. You need to visit iForgot.apple.com and verify your identity to unlock the account.
Why Is My Apple ID Disabled or Locked?
Apple locks or disables your Apple ID account as a security precaution. Usually, this happens when someone enters the wrong password too many times in a row.
Apple tells you when your account is locked or disabled.
This could happen if you forgot your password or repeatedly entered it incorrectly. It might also happen if someone else is attempting to break their way into your account, which is what Apple hopes to protect against.
How Do I Know If My Apple ID Is Disabled?
If your Apple ID account is disabled, you should see one of the following messages when trying to sign in:
“This Apple ID has been locked for security reasons”
“This Apple ID has been disabled for security reasons”
“You can’t sign in because your account was disabled for security reasons”
On an iOS or iPadOS device, tap Unlock account and follow the on-screen prompts.
These messages might not appear straight away if you entered your username or password incorrectly. In which case, you may only see the following message:
“Your Apple ID or password was incorrect”
If this happens, click the Forgot Password? button to reset your password.
How Do I Unlock My Disabled Apple ID?
To unlock your disabled Apple ID account, you need to verify your identity with Apple. There are a few different ways Apple might ask you to do this, depending on the security settings of your account.
Get started by visiting iForgot.apple.com. You can visit this website from any device, but it’s easiest to navigate using a computer.
Visit the iForgot website to recover your details or unlock your account.
If the wrong password was repeatedly entered after your account became disabled, you may need to wait 24 hours before you can unlock your Apple ID.
Step 1. Enter Your Apple ID Username
Enter your Apple ID username on the iForgot website. This is typically the email address you used to create your Apple ID, you can find out what it is by looking at your Apple devices:
On an iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch: Go to Settings > [Your Name].
On a Mac: Go to the Apple menu, then System Preferences > Apple ID.
Your iPhone shows your Apple ID username beneath your name.
Alternatively, open the App Store, iTunes, or Apple Music and look for your Apple ID username inside those apps.
If you still don’t know your Apple ID username, try signing in with any old email addresses you used in the past.
Step 2. Enter Your Personal Details
Apple may ask you to answer security questions or enter a phone number connected to your account. If you own an iPhone, this isn’t necessarily the same phone number you use for your mobile.
Apple shows the last two digits of any phone numbers to help you determine which one it is.
You need to answer these security questions to verify your identity with Apple. If you can’t answer the questions, contact Apple support directly.
Step 3. Use Your Apple Device to Unlock Your Disabled Apple ID
At this stage, Apple tries to send a notification to your connected Apple devices. If you have access to your device, unlock it and tap Allow on the waiting notification to unlock your disabled Apple ID.
Unlock your Apple device and follow the on-screen prompts.
To do this, you may also need to enter a verification code or follow prompts to reset your password, which is a good idea if someone else was attempting to access your account.
Hopefully by now, you’ve unlocked your Apple ID. If not, keep following the instructions below for more help.
Step 4. Use a Verification Code to Unlock Your Disabled Apple ID
If you didn’t get a notification or can’t use your Apple device, click Unable to access your [device]? This prompts Apple to text a six-digit verification code to the phone number attached to your account.
Tell Apple if you can’t use your device.
Apple may ask for your Recovery Key. This is a long code Apple created when you activated two-step authentication on your account. At the time, Apple would have prompted you to print it out and keep it safe.
Enter the requested code followed by your Apple ID password, to unlock your account.
If you don’t have the necessary code, click Did not get a verification code? to resend the text, receive a phone call, or select an alternative phone number that is already connected to your account.
Apple offers a few ways for you to get verification codes.
Step 5. Use Account Recovery to Unlock Your Disabled Apple ID
If you don’t have access to any phone numbers connected to your account, click No longer using this number? and choose to Update phone number, which you can do after verifying your identity through Account Recovery.
Agree to update your phone number when you access your disabled Apple ID.
Account Recovery is likely to take several days to unlock your disabled account. It takes this long for two reasons:
To allow Apple to review how and when your devices connect to its servers, so it can confirm that you are who you say you are.
To give you plenty of time to cancel the Account Recovery request if it was made by someone else who is trying to gain access to your account.
Click Continue anyway and enter some contact details Apple can use to reach you at. After Account Recovery is complete, Apple sends instructions to this number telling you how to unlock your account.
Revisit the iForgot website at any time for an update on how long Account Recovery will take. You can automatically cancel Account Recovery if you gain access to your account again using any other method.
Step 6. If Nothing Else Works, Contact Apple Support Directly
Hopefully, the instructions above helped you to unlock your disabled Apple ID. That said, the exact process varies depending on the age and security settings of your particular account.
Visit the Apple Support website and select Disabled Apple ID.
If your Apple ID is still disabled, contact Apple support directly for one-to-one assistance unlocking it. You will need to verify your identity with Apple, which may require answering security questions or receiving verification codes again.
Sign In to Your Apple ID Again on All Your Devices
If you changed your Apple ID password when unlocking your account, you may need to sign in on each of your devices again. Individual apps should prompt you to do this; if they don’t, manually sign out and sign in again from the Settings or System Preferences.
Your Apple ID probably got disabled because you forgot your password or because someone else was trying to access your account. Both scenarios are good reasons to change your Apple ID password, which you should do now if you haven’t already.
Dan writes tutorials and troubleshooting guides to help people make the most of their technology. Before becoming a writer, he earned a BSc in Sound Technology, supervised repairs at an Apple Store, and even taught English in China.
I bought an iPhone 5 from a person which i formatted but locked on icloud by him now i can not use it and i asked him he said he did not saved it on icloud. now it is been disable please help
hi I have been my apple store has been showing me that my account was disabled from apple store and iTunes whenever i try to updates my apps and nothing seems to work please help
Apple and iTunes disabled. Called support, waited on hold 8 minutes, transferred to iTunes support, waited on hold a looong time, then was hung up upon.
I have not been able to use my iPhone 7 since right after I got it. It has been factory reset and linked to Apple ID and activation lock is on. I also do not have access to my trusted number. But I’m pretty sure I know my Apple ID password and remember my security questions please help
I am in another country and my apply id is lock I want to unlock it but it need my number and I am another country I can’t use my number I have my gmail I can use my gmail
It sounds like you are in the process of Apple ID Account Recovery. If so, there is no way to speed it up.
Apple does require an account recovery waiting period–this is to ensure that you are indeed the owner of that account and check for any fraudulent request.
Apple should have sent you an email with 1) confirmation of your request and 2) the expected date and time of when you should regain access to your account.
Once your waiting period is complete, Apple sends you a text (or phone call) with instructions on how to regain access to your account
Elizabeth Jones, Thanks for your response. I’ve waited two days already now waiting the last two. I was given a Four days period to wait.
Well they did send me this information. “We’re evaluating your information and will have an update in 2 days.
When it’s time to reset your password, we will send instructions to •••••”
I’ll just have to wait it out……
It sounds like the iPhone is already set back to the factory settings–that’s why you see the Hello and Setup screens.
We suggest you sign in with your Apple ID and see if it allows you to continue to set it up–try using the Manually set-up option rather than the quick start.
Given all those factors, you must contact Apple Support.
At this stage without your associated phone number and your email hacked, it’s best to speak to the Apple customer service department team directly.
Hello Frank,
I have the same problem. I’m able to sign it but can’t purchase or re-download songs. Payment details I put was expired too so I was able to redeem apple card to my account but still saying disabled even though I redeemed itunes card to my account. If you have fixed your please enlighten me how you did
I can’t unlock my Apple ID account because I have had my mobile phone stolen I have a new mobile phone number now but it keeps asking for my old number why
Do you have more than one trusted device set up with your Apple ID? Like an iPad, Mac, or iPod?
Is so, go to the Apple ID Site and try to sign in. and find out what other devices or SMS numbers may be available to be used to get the verification code.
When it automatically sends a verification code, tap the line Didn’t Get a Verification Code and the choose More Options.
Account recovery can take a few days or longer, depending on the specific account information you provide Apple to verify your identity and prove that the Apple ID belongs to you.
Iam ha wing problem with my apps every time I click onto my apps it says my account has been disabled from my iTunes or Apple account? How can I fix this problem
It sounds like you either need to update payment information or accept new terms OR there is some security concern with your account.
If none of the steps helped in this article, please contact Apple Support for further follow-up. we find chatting with their support team often solves problems like this.
If you haven’t already done this, try reviewing your payment info:
Go to Settings > iTunes and App Stores
Tap your Apple ID and choose View Apple ID
Enter your Apple ID and password (if asked)
Tap OK
Select Payment Information
Check through all your payment information for any errors–correct anything that’s not right including address, phone number, card number, expiration date and so forth
Press Done when finished reviewing
Restart your device
Try to access the app store again
I no longer have access to the email i used for my apple id. I answered my questions correctly to reset my password but i an unknown error message everytime i hit enter
When I’m in the App Store, iTunes or anything that I have to buy on my phone it says “Your Apple ID has been disabled from the App Store and the iTunes Store.
How do you fix it and actually be able to buy something?
It has been months since I could ever buy anything
It’s possible that there is a billing issue on your account, often a change of address, need to accept new terms and conditions, or an unpaid iTunes or App Store order.
If you can still access your account information via Settings > Apple ID Profile > and verify all the information in the Name, Phone Number, Email and with Payment & Shipping. Make sure you check your billing information and update your payment method and any other settings.
If you don’t have access to your Apple ID, contact Apple Support and ask them to check your payment and billing information.
I tried that but it won’t let me pay it’s says “Your Apple ID has been disabled from App Store and ITunes” I even tried to do the method you Said still not working 🙁
My account has been disabled and I don’t understand the instructions to open it again. My email is the same but I will have to change my password and my credit card number but I can’t get into my account to do this. Can you help me
My Apple ID keeps saying it’s disabled I reset my password 3 times and it’s still saying the same thing when I try to download apps what do I do to solve the problem
By phone is disabled. I tried all the steps available including contacting apple support and they are saying 11 days for it to be reset? Seems excessive especially since I verified all my info on-line including my credit card.
I keep getting your Apple ID has been disabled when I try to update any of my apps. I’ve followed instructions to reset my password via email and I still get the same message. Need help to get this fixed
Please follow up with Apple directly–there may be a reason why your Apple ID continues to be disabled. Apple may suspect it’s been hacked or another security risk.
If the tips outlined in the article didn’t help you get your Apple ID working again, please contact Apple Support in your country of residence and ask them to assist you in recovering your Apple ID.
Ok,so. Im trying to get in to my old i cloud mail using my old iphone. i boot my phone and when i go to settings to sign in to my apple id it tells that my account is locked and i need to unlock it. i press “send verification to email”. i go to the mail on my phone (where im already signed in), but the mail doesn’ t update. it says its updated last like 5 months ago. So i cant unlock my account because i cant seem to get any mails on my icloud mail anymore.(sorry for my bad english but i could reallu use a hand here )
Sorry to hear about your problems with iCloud and Mail. And your English is fine! Is the email address that Apple sends for verification an iCloud email address or another third-party email provider (like gmail or yahoo or so forth) ? If it’s a third-party provider, open a web browswer like Safari or Chrome and sign in to the website to check for that verification email.
Another option is to toggle Mail off, restart your iPhone, and then toggle it back on to see if it refreshes the connection. Go to Settings > Accounts & Passwords (or Mail for older iOS) > choose your email account and toggle Mail off. Then restart your device and return to that same Settings and toggle Mail back on.
My Apple ID was disabled and I have done the recovery now for the 3rd time. I am able to use all my devices but cannot update or download my apps. It is still saying Apple ID is disabled when I go to update my apps. Can you help me please?
Thank you!
We’re removed your personal info from this comment (phone/apple id.) As a third-party site, we cannot directly assist you. However, we can (I hope) point you in the right direction to get some answers.
Since you’ve been through this process a few times already with your Apple ID, it’s best to contact Apple Support’s Team for Apple ID issues directly. Here’s the link to reach Apple’s ID Support Team. On that page, scroll all the way down to “Want to talk with someone?” And click the contact Apple Support link just below. Select Disabled Apple ID and on the following page select Talk to Apple Support Now.
Before you call, write down all the steps you’ve taken in the past, including those 3 times you recovered your Apple ID. Give them all the details and let them know that you are frustrated to continually be having to go through these steps–ask them for clear guidance on how to get your Apple ID working again AND how you can avoid getting caught back in this cycle of disabled Apple ID/Recovery.
Keep us posted if you get a chance! We’d love to hear your results.
I am having a major issue with my Apple ID, randomly it started to say “Your Apple ID has been disabled”, I have searched the web to try and solve this problem but nothing works. I’ve tried two-step factor, I even reset my own password! If you can give me a call, that would be pleasant. Thank you for taking the time to review my comment, much appreciated!
We’re sorry to hear that you’re having continuing problems with your APPLE ID. Please reach out to the Apple ID support team by going to this support page, select Apple ID from the list of support icons and then scroll down to the bottom to Want To Talk With Somone? On the next page, select Disabled Apple ID and choose to Talk to Apple Support Now.
I have been trying to resety apple I’d email and password or a device that I use to use but no longer using that device but have different device not sure on if apple I’d ail and password are the same on both devices. HELP ME
Enter your Apple ID
Put in the code you see and select Continue
Enter your trusted phone number and press Continue
Tap Don’t have access to your trusted devices or phone numbers
Choose Start Account Recovery
I work for AppleCare. You didn’t mention if the issue only happens with App Store/ iTunes Store-related issues, the customer needs to call AppleCare as only iTunes phone support can fix this.
I’m getting fed up with my Apple ID being locked out. All I want to do is install messenger. Quite a few times I’ve been locked out- and have reset my password to no avail. I use the new password to try to get messenger- sorry it’s locked out, over and over again
If you didn’t add an alternate trusted phone number and don’t have any other trusted device (like an iPad or Mac) associated with your Apple ID, please call the Apple ID support team for assistance.
Alternatively, you can request Account Recovery if you use two-factor authentication.
Sorry to hear you’re having problems with your Apple ID. If you have access to a Mac or Windows PC, check and see if this updated password now works on iTunes. If it’s accepted into iTunes but not your iPad or iPhone, log out of your account on the by tapping on your Apple ID in Settings > iTunes & App Stores. Do the same for FaceTime. And for iMessage by toggling off iMessage.
Then close all your open apps by double pressing Home or swiping up on the Home Gesture Bar and then swiping up all app previews until none remain. Then power down your device, wait 20-30 seconds, and power back up. After all that, now try and log back in with your Apple ID and see if that refreshes your Apple ID account.
If that doesn’t do the trick, contact the Apple ID Support Team and let them know all the details of your situation–that you changed your Apple ID password and now it’s saying it’s disabled.
I tried to contact support however its unavailable. I badly need to enable my apple account cant use my phone unless the account/apple id in enabled. My rescue email is not the same of what I have. I think someone used my apple id. I cant open it anymore. I cant remember my security questions as well. please help me.
I never forgot my password. But it keeps saying my darn thing is locked and I have done this crap 10 times and still says it’s lovked!!! I just got this phone and my email at 8:00pm and it’s 237 am I been fighting with it since 10:00 after I made my account !!!!
I am having the same problem. I have reset my password, signed out of the app store, signed back in and still get “Your apple id has been disabled”. What else can I do?
Sorry, you’re having issues with your Apple ID. First, check that your Date&Time is on Set Automatically–this could be the problem. Go to Settings > General > Date & Time > Set Automatically. If it’s already on, toggle it off, wait 20 seconds, and toggle it back on.
Close the App Store by double pressing Home and swiping up the App Store Preview (or for iPhone X, swipe up Home Gesture Bar and then select App Store preview and swipe up to close)
Then try signing out again of iTunes and App Stores, then force restart your iDevice, and sign back in.
1. Go to Settings > iTunes& App Store > Apple ID and sign out
2. Force Restart your device
On an iPhone 6S or below plus all iPads & iPod Touches, press Home and Power at the same time until you see the Apple logo
For iPhone 7 or iPhone 7 Plus: Press and hold both the Side and Volume Down buttons for at least 10 seconds, until you see the Apple logo
On an iPhone X or iPhone 8 or iPhone 8 Plus: Press and quickly release the Volume Up button. Then press and quickly release the Volume Down button. Finally, press and hold the Side button until you see the Apple logo
3. Return to Settings > iTunes & App Store > Apple ID and sign in. Make sure you use the same Apple ID that you recently reset the password for.
If you have a Mac or other iDevices, make sure you update iTunes & App Stores to reflect the change to your Apple ID.
Hi dear SK
Thanks for your reply
It seems everything works well now
I still can’t get apps but I guess this is an internet server problem, since I don’t recieve the “disabled “ note anymore
I still have some problems with uploading photoes on my icloud device and getting my phone’s backup
The first one has no progress, although is “uploading..” and the second colmpletes only partly and I see no uploaded files when visiting my icloud device on pc
So glad that worked for you! Now with these additional issues, I’m guessing they are related to your ISP or a unstable/slow connection. Uploading and downloading photos takes time with iCloud, so get to a location that has a strong, stable, and fast WiFi connection and see if your photos are able to upload/download as expected. Depending on how many you have, you may need to set a block of hours for this to occur–AND be connected to that stable network the entire time.
If still having issues, let us know and we’ll look into some other factors.
Hi
I have tried to follow the steps for two times and was able to reset the password so I can sign in icloud web and everywhere but it still shows id disabled when I try appstore !
What can I do?!
Sorry about your troubles with an updated Apple ID password using the App Store. First, close the App Store app on your device by double pressing the home button or swiping up the home gesture bar, locating the App Store Preview, and swiping up off the top of your screen to close. Then go to Settings > iTunes & App Store > and sign out. Then, sign back in using your updated Apple ID credentials. Once signed in, open the App Store and see if everything is working as expected.
My problem is that I have forgotten my email address that the icloud is on, and also forgot the security questions, I have a new apple id, but I can’t sign out from my old one unless I restore it! Please help!
Sepideh, Sorry you are having this issue. You should reach out to Apple Support to help you with this one. For starters, use this Apple link to find out the email address that you were using. Once you enter your name and associated details, it will show you the email id. Using that Apple id/email id you can then try to recover your password and security questions etc. Here is the Apple Link. https://iforgot.apple.com/password/verify/appleid#!§ion=appleid
If you already tried using Apple’s recovery system (iforgot) and that still isn’t working, it’s best to work directly with Apple to remedy the problem with your Apple ID. Use the link to follow-up on your disabled Apple ID.
Hi what do I do if I think someone has accessed my iCloud account, email, and the phone number that my account keeps sending a code to I have not got it anymore and my email has been hacked as well please hep
Given all those factors, you must contact Apple Support . At this stage without your associated phone number and your email hacked, it’s best to speak to Apple directly and solve the problem together.
I have followed all of the instructions to unlock my disabled account and still the same results when i try to update any of my aps or purchase anything. I am able to access account on my iphone but can’t buy anything. Please let me know how to get this corrected.
Sorry to hear this. That’s certainly frustrating. Try this. Go to Settings > iTunes & App Store, and log out of your account by tapping your Apple ID and selecting Sign Out (make sure you know your login and password.) Restart your iDevice. Once it’s ready, log back in. Make sure you have a payment method on file in your Apple ID account—and that it’s expiration date is still valid.
Also, check that you do not have any Restrictions enabled. Go to Settings > General > Restrictions.
If none of these are issues, reset your network settings (be sure to write down or save your WIFI passwords before you do this).
I have followed all of the instructions to unlock my disabled account and still the same results when i try to update any of my aps or purchase anything. I am able to access account on my mac but can’t buy anything, WTH happened. Seems like a lot of people are having this same problem. All started 8/1/17 for me.
I put my password in the wrong password repeatedly before i even read this, and i have been searching the Internet for an answer on how to unlock my account but I haven’t found one…please help i want to download subway surfers.
This is a common problem, so you are definitely not alone! Since you tried multiple unsuccessful attempts, your Apple ID is locked for 24 hours. Try to login again tomorrow, after 24 hours pass.
Alternatively, try going to iforgot.apple.com to unlock your account with your existing password. You can also reset your password there. This may or may not work, depending on how many unsuccessful attempts.
I can’t get any info such as codes to set up my new phone because they send it to my old phone and the led screen is gone out, has lines in it can’t even answer the old phone if it rings,therefore my Apple ID is locked but I can’t unlock it if I can’t even get into my old torn up phone to get info help. I can’t factory reset it,get my photos,or anything off my old phone
Try logging into i cloud . com or Apple ID manager and see if you can access it from there instead of your iPhone. If not, contact Apple Support and let them know your old phone is no longer working so you can’t access it.
I’ve done all of this and it tells me my account was successfully unlocked, but then when I try to log in immediately after, it tells me my account is locked due to security reasons. I’ve changed my password several times and have unlocked it over twenty times. Called support, they sent me to their supervisor, he had no idea why it was stuck in that loop so he sent it over to engineers who j have yet to hear back from. Has anyone else had this problem? Is someone trying to brute force hack me and that’s why my account is immediately locked again after continuously successfully unlocking it? I’m so frustrated.
I put almost 300 songs onto iTunes but when I go to play it on my iPod touch or play it on iTunes on my laptop it skips a bunch of songs and I can’t figure out how to fix this
how the hell am i supposed to get an email when my email says icloud which needs the password that i forgot to open?? im sorry im not making senses right now but im panicking
This was not helpful to me. They say they are sending the update email to me but it never comes. Called customer service and they say they don’t know why the email never comes. I can’t pass the security questions. I know the answers but they say the are ALL wrong. Impossible. No answers…can’t ever use the phone again.
Apple needs to go back to the old way of Apple ID; on my Tiger 10.4 I put the password in one time and it stored it an no need to input again unless there was a crash. Windows 10 works this way now also.
Help me get my app,So I can do updates on my games
My account is disable and I can pay my accounts
What if it sent to a old Apple ID email that we got locked out of and can’t access it
I bought an iPhone 5 from a person which i formatted but locked on icloud by him now i can not use it and i asked him he said he did not saved it on icloud. now it is been disable please help
I phone 6s l have been create too many Apple ID contact another Apple ID
How to fix
I got an email that someone was trying to recover my account. I responded at a the bottom but II want to be sure he was denied.
Thanks
Pam
hi I have been my apple store has been showing me that my account was disabled from apple store and iTunes whenever i try to updates my apps and nothing seems to work please help
Apple and iTunes disabled. Called support, waited on hold 8 minutes, transferred to iTunes support, waited on hold a looong time, then was hung up upon.
I am an old man, apple-minded, but changed the phone for SAMSUNG, will get rid of my iPad and mac pro as the Apple ID system blocks me
Apple wants to progress. It’s impossible AND wrong every time
bye bye Apple
I have not been able to use my iPhone 7 since right after I got it. It has been factory reset and linked to Apple ID and activation lock is on. I also do not have access to my trusted number. But I’m pretty sure I know my Apple ID password and remember my security questions please help
Hi Brandon,
Just to be clear, the iPhone 7 is linked to your Apple ID or someone else’s Apple ID?
my phone is in activation lock. I can not receive codes. I do not have access to my regular emails and I have no contacts now.
My iPhone was not signed into anything else. I do not have a password.
My phone was signed into by someone else who had my password.
They were in my cloud, when I realized this I changed my password quickly and emotionally and I can’t remember it.
I have no means to do password recovery and am locked out of all emails as well because I tried to remember the passwords and couldn’t.
Apple recovery says they will contact my number but the phone is in the activation state so it won’t receive calls. What do I do
Hi A,
Sorry about this situation. Unfortunately, there is no easy remedy.
Locate your proof of purchase for that phone (the receipt from Apple) and then contact Apple Support and explain the situation.
I am in another country and my apply id is lock I want to unlock it but it need my number and I am another country I can’t use my number I have my gmail I can use my gmail
Hi Kami,
Please try Apple’s Apple ID Account recovery service.
I’ve forgotten my Apple ID Password for my username, so I tried accessing that account on the phone I used the same email to activate.
However, I’ve tried several times and got locked out.
I’m now trying to reset my password, but the number I used, I no longer have.
I’m now asked to wait for two more days for my identity to be verified and my new number to be added.
Is there any other way that this can be done? I need to use my phone urgently.
Hi Kaspar,
It sounds like you are in the process of Apple ID Account Recovery. If so, there is no way to speed it up.
Apple does require an account recovery waiting period–this is to ensure that you are indeed the owner of that account and check for any fraudulent request.
Apple should have sent you an email with 1) confirmation of your request and 2) the expected date and time of when you should regain access to your account.
Once your waiting period is complete, Apple sends you a text (or phone call) with instructions on how to regain access to your account
Elizabeth Jones, Thanks for your response. I’ve waited two days already now waiting the last two. I was given a Four days period to wait.
Well they did send me this information. “We’re evaluating your information and will have an update in 2 days.
When it’s time to reset your password, we will send instructions to •••••”
I’ll just have to wait it out……
I have my second phone back.
My ex-husband has done something when he tried to clear the phone out before returning my phone to me it an IPHONE 8 PLUS.
ALL I CAN GET IS the hello and setup language and country then it goes to quick start or manually set up.
All I want to do is reset the phone to factory settings.
I remembered reporting a possible stolen phone because there was a text from my second phone to my personal phone and I didn’t know who it was.
So how do I find out if this phone is still reported stolen and if so how I report it not now
Hi Amanda,
It sounds like the iPhone is already set back to the factory settings–that’s why you see the Hello and Setup screens.
We suggest you sign in with your Apple ID and see if it allows you to continue to set it up–try using the Manually set-up option rather than the quick start.
Given all those factors, you must contact Apple Support.
At this stage without your associated phone number and your email hacked, it’s best to speak to the Apple customer service department team directly.
Likely, they will resolve your problem(s)
My Apple ID disabled for security please help me.
I want to update my apps(36) . Keeps saying disabled. I
Have tried all steps and still can’t update. CN u help me please?
Hi Carol,
Sorry about your issues when updating apps.
Can you please let us know the exact wording of the error message you get when trying to update your apps?
One thing you can try is resetting your Apple ID account’s password.
Go to iforgot.apple.com to reset your password.
After resetting your Apple ID, you’ll need to sign out and back everywhere–update it in your iCloud settings and all the Apple services that you sign in to with your Apple ID (like iMessage, FaceTime, iCloud, and so forth).
If you don’t want to reset your password, contact Apple’s Apple ID Support team and ask them to assist your with re-enabling your account.
Liz
Having a lot of problems with error message completed a transaction error FML
Trying to re activate my disabled account . I cant sign in and therefore cant get any further.
I had fraud on my apple account.
There was a continuous purchase that was going through on my account.
I had my card on file shut down and replaced and now my App Store and I cloud is deactivated?
I am not able to get the newest versions of apps downloaded or updated. Please advise
my apple id is disabled I can’t be able to update or purchase
any help pls I have tried the steps I watched on youtube but it’s not working
I tried to contact the apple support team the site is not available
How can resolve this issue and the payment details I put have expired and am not seeing options to put None?
Hello Frank,
I have the same problem. I’m able to sign it but can’t purchase or re-download songs. Payment details I put was expired too so I was able to redeem apple card to my account but still saying disabled even though I redeemed itunes card to my account. If you have fixed your please enlighten me how you did
I can’t unlock my Apple ID account because I have had my mobile phone stolen I have a new mobile phone number now but it keeps asking for my old number why
Hi James,
So sorry that your phone was stolen!
Do you have more than one trusted device set up with your Apple ID? Like an iPad, Mac, or iPod?
Is so, go to the Apple ID Site and try to sign in. and find out what other devices or SMS numbers may be available to be used to get the verification code.
When it automatically sends a verification code, tap the line Didn’t Get a Verification Code and the choose More Options.
If you don’t have any options or still can’t sign in, request Apple to process an Apple ID Account Recovery for you.
Account recovery can take a few days or longer, depending on the specific account information you provide Apple to verify your identity and prove that the Apple ID belongs to you.
Iam ha wing problem with my apps every time I click onto my apps it says my account has been disabled from my iTunes or Apple account? How can I fix this problem
HI Monica,
It sounds like you either need to update payment information or accept new terms OR there is some security concern with your account.
If none of the steps helped in this article, please contact Apple Support for further follow-up. we find chatting with their support team often solves problems like this.
If you haven’t already done this, try reviewing your payment info:
Go to Settings > iTunes and App Stores
Tap your Apple ID and choose View Apple ID
Enter your Apple ID and password (if asked)
Tap OK
Select Payment Information
Check through all your payment information for any errors–correct anything that’s not right including address, phone number, card number, expiration date and so forth
Press Done when finished reviewing
Restart your device
Try to access the app store again
My apple has been disabled months ago.
I bought a new iPhone XR last month and have been trying ever since to get fixed.
2hours support phone, trip to BestBuy because of no apple store.
2hour road trip to apple store still locked out….
Top of the mountain I have a little house in Cyp.
Had twice break-ins.
I have to put a camera so I can see who is breaking in my house.
The new IP my iPad didn’t accept the person responsible for the camera he forces my iPad with my husband mobile.
Next morning my iPad is disabled I cannot see the camera n go n check my bank account.
Soon as I come back to the UK I will contact my solicitor and do the necessary action against Apple.
I have tried to explain but they lock my 5 years old iPad for security so disappointing
nice infomation
My phone number won’t work when I put it in to unlock my apple accout what do I do?
I no longer have access to the email i used for my apple id. I answered my questions correctly to reset my password but i an unknown error message everytime i hit enter
Purchased new iPad. Entered wrong password too many times. New iPad now disabled
When I’m in the App Store, iTunes or anything that I have to buy on my phone it says “Your Apple ID has been disabled from the App Store and the iTunes Store.
How do you fix it and actually be able to buy something?
It has been months since I could ever buy anything
Hi Mickey,
It’s possible that there is a billing issue on your account, often a change of address, need to accept new terms and conditions, or an unpaid iTunes or App Store order.
If you can still access your account information via Settings > Apple ID Profile > and verify all the information in the Name, Phone Number, Email and with Payment & Shipping. Make sure you check your billing information and update your payment method and any other settings.
If you don’t have access to your Apple ID, contact Apple Support and ask them to check your payment and billing information.
Sam
I tried that but it won’t let me pay it’s says “Your Apple ID has been disabled from App Store and ITunes” I even tried to do the method you Said still not working 🙁
Since you tried all the suggested methods, please contact Apple’s iTunes Support for further assistance.
This error usually indicates a problem with the payment method on file.
My account has been disabled and I don’t understand the instructions to open it again. My email is the same but I will have to change my password and my credit card number but I can’t get into my account to do this. Can you help me
Carol, Please reach out to Apple Support on this one. Thanks.
My Apple ID keeps saying it’s disabled I reset my password 3 times and it’s still saying the same thing when I try to download apps what do I do to solve the problem
My apple ID is disabled can I get help to enable my Apple ID please
By phone is disabled. I tried all the steps available including contacting apple support and they are saying 11 days for it to be reset? Seems excessive especially since I verified all my info on-line including my credit card.
Notified that I have incorrect password. Have wasted hours on this issue.
Hi Gary,
Please reach out to an Apple ID Support team member to help you with this issue.
Or follow this link AND scroll all the way to the bottom section “Want to talk with someone.”
Then choose Disabled Apple ID from the list of issues. Finally, select Talk to Apple Support Now or choose to schedule a call.
Sam
I keep getting your Apple ID has been disabled when I try to update any of my apps. I’ve followed instructions to reset my password via email and I still get the same message. Need help to get this fixed
HI Mary,
Please follow up with Apple directly–there may be a reason why your Apple ID continues to be disabled. Apple may suspect it’s been hacked or another security risk.
Sam
My apple ID is disabled can I get help to enable my Apple ID please
T, Please reach out to Apple Support. They will be able to assist you.
Hello I forgot my password to [email protected]. I also don’t remember the recovery email to it. Can you help me reset my password
Hi, You will have to reach out to Apple support for the reset process. Good Luck.
My Apple ID in iPad is disable can’t open
Hi Nicolas,
If the tips outlined in the article didn’t help you get your Apple ID working again, please contact Apple Support in your country of residence and ask them to assist you in recovering your Apple ID.
SK
Ok,so. Im trying to get in to my old i cloud mail using my old iphone. i boot my phone and when i go to settings to sign in to my apple id it tells that my account is locked and i need to unlock it. i press “send verification to email”. i go to the mail on my phone (where im already signed in), but the mail doesn’ t update. it says its updated last like 5 months ago. So i cant unlock my account because i cant seem to get any mails on my icloud mail anymore.(sorry for my bad english but i could reallu use a hand here )
Hi Jonttu,
Sorry to hear about your problems with iCloud and Mail. And your English is fine! Is the email address that Apple sends for verification an iCloud email address or another third-party email provider (like gmail or yahoo or so forth) ? If it’s a third-party provider, open a web browswer like Safari or Chrome and sign in to the website to check for that verification email.
Another option is to toggle Mail off, restart your iPhone, and then toggle it back on to see if it refreshes the connection. Go to Settings > Accounts & Passwords (or Mail for older iOS) > choose your email account and toggle Mail off. Then restart your device and return to that same Settings and toggle Mail back on.
Hope something works!
SK
My Apple ID was disabled and I have done the recovery now for the 3rd time. I am able to use all my devices but cannot update or download my apps. It is still saying Apple ID is disabled when I go to update my apps. Can you help me please?
Thank you!
Hi Shannon,
We’re removed your personal info from this comment (phone/apple id.) As a third-party site, we cannot directly assist you. However, we can (I hope) point you in the right direction to get some answers.
Since you’ve been through this process a few times already with your Apple ID, it’s best to contact Apple Support’s Team for Apple ID issues directly. Here’s the link to reach Apple’s ID Support Team. On that page, scroll all the way down to “Want to talk with someone?” And click the contact Apple Support link just below. Select Disabled Apple ID and on the following page select Talk to Apple Support Now.
Before you call, write down all the steps you’ve taken in the past, including those 3 times you recovered your Apple ID. Give them all the details and let them know that you are frustrated to continually be having to go through these steps–ask them for clear guidance on how to get your Apple ID working again AND how you can avoid getting caught back in this cycle of disabled Apple ID/Recovery.
Keep us posted if you get a chance! We’d love to hear your results.
SK
My Apple ID is disabled how can I fix this so aggravating thank you
Hi David,
Sorry to hear you’re having problems with your Apple ID. What message are you seeing?
If the steps outlined in this article don’t help, it’s time to contact Apple Support directly for help with Apple ID account security.
SK
To Whom It May Concern,
I am having a major issue with my Apple ID, randomly it started to say “Your Apple ID has been disabled”, I have searched the web to try and solve this problem but nothing works. I’ve tried two-step factor, I even reset my own password! If you can give me a call, that would be pleasant. Thank you for taking the time to review my comment, much appreciated!
Thanks,
Patrick S.
Hi Patrick,
We’re sorry to hear that you’re having continuing problems with your APPLE ID. Please reach out to the Apple ID support team by going to this support page, select Apple ID from the list of support icons and then scroll down to the bottom to Want To Talk With Somone? On the next page, select Disabled Apple ID and choose to Talk to Apple Support Now.
SK
I have been trying to resety apple I’d email and password or a device that I use to use but no longer using that device but have different device not sure on if apple I’d ail and password are the same on both devices. HELP ME
Hi Geraldine,
Sorry to hear about your issues with resetting your Apple ID. Since you no longer have the device, please follow the steps for Account Recovery.
Since you can’t access ANY of your trusted devices, go to Apple’s iforgot site
Enter your Apple ID
Put in the code you see and select Continue
Enter your trusted phone number and press Continue
Tap Don’t have access to your trusted devices or phone numbers
Choose Start Account Recovery
Keep us posted,
SK
I work for AppleCare. You didn’t mention if the issue only happens with App Store/ iTunes Store-related issues, the customer needs to call AppleCare as only iTunes phone support can fix this.
Josh, Thanks for the update. The post has been updated to reflect Apple iTunes support link.
Under settings my name is not highlighted so I cannot get into Apple ID, iTunes etc.
Hi Bob,
What happens when you tap your name, immediately under Settings–does this open up your Apple ID info?
SK
I’m getting fed up with my Apple ID being locked out. All I want to do is install messenger. Quite a few times I’ve been locked out- and have reset my password to no avail. I use the new password to try to get messenger- sorry it’s locked out, over and over again
Apple keeps wanting an old phone number!
Hi James,
If you didn’t add an alternate trusted phone number and don’t have any other trusted device (like an iPad or Mac) associated with your Apple ID, please call the Apple ID support team for assistance.
Alternatively, you can request Account Recovery if you use two-factor authentication.
I reset my password and it’s still saying that my Apple ID is disabled
HI Meaghan,
Sorry to hear you’re having problems with your Apple ID. If you have access to a Mac or Windows PC, check and see if this updated password now works on iTunes. If it’s accepted into iTunes but not your iPad or iPhone, log out of your account on the by tapping on your Apple ID in Settings > iTunes & App Stores. Do the same for FaceTime. And for iMessage by toggling off iMessage.
Then close all your open apps by double pressing Home or swiping up on the Home Gesture Bar and then swiping up all app previews until none remain. Then power down your device, wait 20-30 seconds, and power back up. After all that, now try and log back in with your Apple ID and see if that refreshes your Apple ID account.
If that doesn’t do the trick, contact the Apple ID Support Team and let them know all the details of your situation–that you changed your Apple ID password and now it’s saying it’s disabled.
Hope that helps,
SK
please help me. Im from Philippines cant contact the apple Support team. Please send me active phone numbers where I can contact them. Thanks
HI Jerish,
Here is the Apple Support Phone Number listed on Apple’s By-Country/Region Support Page:
Philippines
1-800-1441-0234 (PLDT and Smart Communications)
1-800-8908-8277 (Globe)
Best of luck,
SK
Hi,
I tried to contact support however its unavailable. I badly need to enable my apple account cant use my phone unless the account/apple id in enabled. My rescue email is not the same of what I have. I think someone used my apple id. I cant open it anymore. I cant remember my security questions as well. please help me.
HI All,
My son is having the same issue with his Apple ID. We’ve tried everything below and it has not worked. Any suggestions? Thanks RHonda
I need my Apple ID enabled again
I never forgot my password. But it keeps saying my darn thing is locked and I have done this crap 10 times and still says it’s lovked!!! I just got this phone and my email at 8:00pm and it’s 237 am I been fighting with it since 10:00 after I made my account !!!!
I am having the same problem. I have reset my password, signed out of the app store, signed back in and still get “Your apple id has been disabled”. What else can I do?
HI Sarah,
Sorry, you’re having issues with your Apple ID. First, check that your Date&Time is on Set Automatically–this could be the problem. Go to Settings > General > Date & Time > Set Automatically. If it’s already on, toggle it off, wait 20 seconds, and toggle it back on.
Close the App Store by double pressing Home and swiping up the App Store Preview (or for iPhone X, swipe up Home Gesture Bar and then select App Store preview and swipe up to close)
Then try signing out again of iTunes and App Stores, then force restart your iDevice, and sign back in.
1. Go to Settings > iTunes& App Store > Apple ID and sign out
2. Force Restart your device
On an iPhone 6S or below plus all iPads & iPod Touches, press Home and Power at the same time until you see the Apple logo
For iPhone 7 or iPhone 7 Plus: Press and hold both the Side and Volume Down buttons for at least 10 seconds, until you see the Apple logo
On an iPhone X or iPhone 8 or iPhone 8 Plus: Press and quickly release the Volume Up button. Then press and quickly release the Volume Down button. Finally, press and hold the Side button until you see the Apple logo
3. Return to Settings > iTunes & App Store > Apple ID and sign in. Make sure you use the same Apple ID that you recently reset the password for.
If you have a Mac or other iDevices, make sure you update iTunes & App Stores to reflect the change to your Apple ID.
Hope this helps you,
Liz
Hi dear SK
Thanks for your reply
It seems everything works well now
I still can’t get apps but I guess this is an internet server problem, since I don’t recieve the “disabled “ note anymore
I still have some problems with uploading photoes on my icloud device and getting my phone’s backup
The first one has no progress, although is “uploading..” and the second colmpletes only partly and I see no uploaded files when visiting my icloud device on pc
I will be thankfull if you have any suggestions
Thanks
Punik
Hi Punik,
So glad that worked for you! Now with these additional issues, I’m guessing they are related to your ISP or a unstable/slow connection. Uploading and downloading photos takes time with iCloud, so get to a location that has a strong, stable, and fast WiFi connection and see if your photos are able to upload/download as expected. Depending on how many you have, you may need to set a block of hours for this to occur–AND be connected to that stable network the entire time.
If still having issues, let us know and we’ll look into some other factors.
SK
Hi
I have tried to follow the steps for two times and was able to reset the password so I can sign in icloud web and everywhere but it still shows id disabled when I try appstore !
What can I do?!
Hi Punik,
Sorry about your troubles with an updated Apple ID password using the App Store. First, close the App Store app on your device by double pressing the home button or swiping up the home gesture bar, locating the App Store Preview, and swiping up off the top of your screen to close. Then go to Settings > iTunes & App Store > and sign out. Then, sign back in using your updated Apple ID credentials. Once signed in, open the App Store and see if everything is working as expected.
Let us know if that solves your issue…or not,
SK
My problem is that I have forgotten my email address that the icloud is on, and also forgot the security questions, I have a new apple id, but I can’t sign out from my old one unless I restore it! Please help!
Sepideh, Sorry you are having this issue. You should reach out to Apple Support to help you with this one. For starters, use this Apple link to find out the email address that you were using. Once you enter your name and associated details, it will show you the email id. Using that Apple id/email id you can then try to recover your password and security questions etc. Here is the Apple Link. https://iforgot.apple.com/password/verify/appleid#!§ion=appleid
Careful everyone, I tried to restore my apple ID and now they lock you for about 15 days before they give you the password and the account back. WTF??
Help pls my Apple ID is disabled I try to activate using iforgot and it still disabled fix this please
Hi Henry,
If you already tried using Apple’s recovery system (iforgot) and that still isn’t working, it’s best to work directly with Apple to remedy the problem with your Apple ID. Use the link to follow-up on your disabled Apple ID.
SK
Hi what do I do if I think someone has accessed my iCloud account, email, and the phone number that my account keeps sending a code to I have not got it anymore and my email has been hacked as well please hep
Hi Bradley,
Given all those factors, you must contact Apple Support . At this stage without your associated phone number and your email hacked, it’s best to speak to Apple directly and solve the problem together.
SK
I have followed all of the instructions to unlock my disabled account and still the same results when i try to update any of my aps or purchase anything. I am able to access account on my iphone but can’t buy anything. Please let me know how to get this corrected.
Hi Nick,
Sorry to hear this. That’s certainly frustrating. Try this. Go to Settings > iTunes & App Store, and log out of your account by tapping your Apple ID and selecting Sign Out (make sure you know your login and password.) Restart your iDevice. Once it’s ready, log back in. Make sure you have a payment method on file in your Apple ID account—and that it’s expiration date is still valid.
Also, check that you do not have any Restrictions enabled. Go to Settings > General > Restrictions.
If none of these are issues, reset your network settings (be sure to write down or save your WIFI passwords before you do this).
Hope something here helps. If not, let us know.
Good Luck,
Liz
I have followed all of the instructions to unlock my disabled account and still the same results when i try to update any of my aps or purchase anything. I am able to access account on my mac but can’t buy anything, WTH happened. Seems like a lot of people are having this same problem. All started 8/1/17 for me.
Tried the steps but say it couldn’t find my apple id. Help!
I put my password in the wrong password repeatedly before i even read this, and i have been searching the Internet for an answer on how to unlock my account but I haven’t found one…please help i want to download subway surfers.
Hi Audrey,
This is a common problem, so you are definitely not alone! Since you tried multiple unsuccessful attempts, your Apple ID is locked for 24 hours. Try to login again tomorrow, after 24 hours pass.
Alternatively, try going to iforgot.apple.com to unlock your account with your existing password. You can also reset your password there. This may or may not work, depending on how many unsuccessful attempts.
Good luck,
SK
I can’t get any info such as codes to set up my new phone because they send it to my old phone and the led screen is gone out, has lines in it can’t even answer the old phone if it rings,therefore my Apple ID is locked but I can’t unlock it if I can’t even get into my old torn up phone to get info help. I can’t factory reset it,get my photos,or anything off my old phone
Kathy,
Try logging into i cloud . com or Apple ID manager and see if you can access it from there instead of your iPhone. If not, contact Apple Support and let them know your old phone is no longer working so you can’t access it.
Keep us posted and good luck,
SK
i changed my password
but it didnt work out
still says your apple id has been disabled
fin apple id-check
reset passwords-check
update icloud-check
but why is my account still disabled?!
I’ve done all of this and it tells me my account was successfully unlocked, but then when I try to log in immediately after, it tells me my account is locked due to security reasons. I’ve changed my password several times and have unlocked it over twenty times. Called support, they sent me to their supervisor, he had no idea why it was stuck in that loop so he sent it over to engineers who j have yet to hear back from. Has anyone else had this problem? Is someone trying to brute force hack me and that’s why my account is immediately locked again after continuously successfully unlocking it? I’m so frustrated.
I put almost 300 songs onto iTunes but when I go to play it on my iPod touch or play it on iTunes on my laptop it skips a bunch of songs and I can’t figure out how to fix this
Do we must use Mac?
Hi Britney,
Nope. You may use any computer, mac or windows OR any device that connect to the internet.
Best of luck,
Liz
how the hell am i supposed to get an email when my email says icloud which needs the password that i forgot to open?? im sorry im not making senses right now but im panicking
This was not helpful to me. They say they are sending the update email to me but it never comes. Called customer service and they say they don’t know why the email never comes. I can’t pass the security questions. I know the answers but they say the are ALL wrong. Impossible. No answers…can’t ever use the phone again.
I have gone through the steps to unlock my Apple account successfully. Problem is am still unable to pay on the game I am playing. What is the deal?
Apple needs to go back to the old way of Apple ID; on my Tiger 10.4 I put the password in one time and it stored it an no need to input again unless there was a crash. Windows 10 works this way now also.