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When someone dies, notifying Apple is one of the key tasks for the executor or next of kin. This guide explains exactly who to contact, what to say, what documents you will need, and how long Apple takes to process a bereavement notification.
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If the deceased set up a Legacy Contact in their Apple ID settings before they died, that person can request access to the account and data. This is the easiest route.
If there was no Legacy Contact, a family member can apply to Apple for access to the deceased's Apple ID. Visit support.apple.com/en-gb/HT208510 to begin the process.
Apple will require a copy of the death certificate and may require a court order or other legal documentation to grant access to a deceased person's account.
Cancel any active Apple subscriptions (Apple TV+, Apple Music, iCloud storage, Apple One) through the account settings or Family Sharing to stop further charges.
Once account access is no longer needed, Apple can close the Apple ID entirely. Note: all purchases made with the Apple ID (apps, music, films) are not transferable.
Have multiple certified copies of the death certificate ready. Banks and financial institutions each require an original or certified copy — you cannot usually pass a single copy between organisations. See our guide to how many death certificates you need.
Apple typically takes 1–2 weeks to process a bereavement notification once all required documents have been received.
During this period, accounts or services will typically be frozen until the estate is administered. This means no new transactions can be authorised.
Apple has a Digital Legacy programme — if the deceased set up a Legacy Contact before they died, that person can request access to the Apple account and data. Without this, account access is permanently lost.
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Once Apple receives your notification and confirms receipt, the account or service will be frozen and no new transactions will be authorised. Estate administration can then begin.
Apple will confirm receipt of your notification and advise you of any next steps required to close or transfer the account or policy. Keep a record of all correspondence and reference numbers for the estate file.
Do not delay notifying Apple
Direct debits and standing orders may continue to be charged after death. Some organisations treat the estate as the debtor for any charges incurred before notification. Notifying Apple promptly protects the estate from unnecessary costs.
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