What Happens to Your Apple / iCloud Account When You Die
Quick Facts
Deadline
None
Difficulty
Easy
Key Info
Legacy Contact available since iOS 15.2
Step-by-Step Guide
Set up Digital Legacy Contact
Go to Settings → [your name] → Password & Security → Legacy Contact. Add a trusted person. They get an access key.
Estimated time: 5 min
Enable Family Sharing
Set up Family Sharing so family can access purchased apps, music, and TV shows.
Estimated time: 10 min
Create shared photo albums
Add important photos to iCloud Shared Albums with family members.
Estimated time: 15-30 min
Note your Apple ID
Record your Apple ID email so family can contact Apple Support with your Death Certificate.
Estimated time: 2 min
Family contacts Apple
With Death Certificate and Legacy Contact access key, family requests account access via Apple Support.
Document Now Checklist
- Apple ID email
- Legacy Contact name
- Legacy Contact access key location
- Family Sharing status
Last verified: June 2026. Platform policies may change. Verify current procedures directly with Apple / iCloud. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
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