What happens to an Apple ID and iCloud when someone dies, how to set up a Legacy Contact and how a family member requests access.
What happens to an Apple ID and iCloud when someone dies, how to set up a Legacy Contact and how a family member requests access.
Yes. Apple has a Legacy Contact. Set one up on the person’s iPhone or iPad under Settings, their name, Sign-In & Security, Legacy Contact. Apple gives the contact an access key to keep safe.
A Legacy Contact goes to digital-legacy.apple.com, signs in, enters the access key and uploads the death certificate. Apple reviews it, which can take up to about two weeks, then gives access to the iCloud data such as photos and files. With no Legacy Contact set up in advance, a family member usually needs a court order.
Can I just use their Apple ID password?
Even with the password, Activation Lock and Apple’s terms can block you. The Legacy Contact route is the proper way to get the data.
What does the Legacy Contact get?
Access to most data stored in iCloud, such as photos, files and messages backed up to iCloud. Some items like payment information and keychain passwords are not included.
Last reviewed June 2026. Platform processes change, so please confirm on the Apple ID help page before acting. This is general information, not legal or financial advice.
Legacy Contact available; set it in Settings, Sign-In & Security. After death: request access at digital-legacy.apple.com with the access key and a death certificate. Apple review takes up to about two weeks. No Legacy Contact means a court order is usually required.
