imei status check

Hi kstein84,

Thanks for coming to Apple Support Communities for help today.

It's always best to purchase your devices from an Apple Authorized Reseller. If you are buying second-hand, you'll want to contact your carrier regarding the IMEI.

You will want to be sure the seller has followed the steps here: What to do before you sell, give away, or trade in your iPhone or iPad.

Essentially, there should be no Apple ID signed into the device. If there is, then signing into your Apple ID would be impossible and Activation Lock would be activated if the device was restored. This article will explain Activation Lock further: Activation Lock for iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch.

Check for Activation Lock before you buy a device from someone else

Before you buy an iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch, from someone other than Apple or an Apple Authorized Reseller, make sure that the device is erased and no longer linked to the previous owner’s account.

On a device with iOS or iPadOS 15 or later that is protected by Activation Lock, you see an "iPhone Locked to Owner" screen when you turn on or wake the device. Don't take ownership of any used iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch if it's protected by Activation Lock.

If you don't see that screen, follow these steps to check if the device is ready to use: 

1. Turn on and unlock the device. 
2. If the passcode Lock Screen or the Home Screen appears, the device hasn't been erased. Ask the seller to follow the steps below to completely erase the device. Don't take ownership of any used iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch until it's been erased.
3. Begin the device setup process.
4. If you're asked for the previous owner’s Apple ID and password, the device is still linked to their account. Hand the device back to the seller and ask them to enter their password. If the previous owner isn't present, contact them as soon as possible and ask them to use a browser to remove the device from their account. Don't take ownership of any used iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch until it has been removed from the previous owner’s account.

A device is ready for you to use when you see the Hello screen."

Have a fantastic day!