What exactly is an access key and how do you set one up or get it?

4621_sammie Said:

"What exactly is an access key and how do you set one up or get it?"

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About the Access Key:

• Go Here: How to add a Legacy Contact for your Apple ID - Apple Support
• As it Reads: "To file an access request after you pass away, they'll just need: The access key that you generate when you choose them as your contact; Your death certificate"

The access key is provided to your legacy contact.

After your death, the contact uses the key … along w/ your death certificate to … to take control of your account. (after man-in-the-loop verification by Apple)

If the contact has their own AppleID, the digital key is stored as part his/her AppleID.

If they are not Apple users, the key resembles a QR code; which you can forward to the contact as an image … or print for safekeeping (e.g. with your will)

If they are AppleID users themselves… yes.

All they will have to do is click “accept” when they receive the notification.

Easy Peesy.

Both parties - the “Pre-Decedent”

and the “Legacy Contact” - can always view the key in their own Settings -> AppleID -> Password & Security -> Legacy Contact.

This page also includes the link for the Legacy Contact to “Request Access” (to Apple) after the decedent’s death.

What "access key" are you referring to?

You’re certainly welcome. 👋

BTW … the actual “key” is an 88-character, alpha-numeric string.