Legacy access key
It states that the legacy access key is saved to our Apple ID. How do we find it? Is it visible or do we have to search for it?
Thank you in advance.
Windows, Windows 10
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User profile for user:
Missy5937
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Community Specialist
Hello CrsDwn98,
Thanks for posting in the Apple Support Communities.
Reviewing How to add a Legacy Contact for your Apple ID - Apple Support, it appears you're provided the access key after you've chosen the contact you designate as your Legacy Contact.
"Your Legacy Contact can be anyone you choose, and you can designate more than one Legacy Contact. They don’t even need an Apple ID or an Apple device.
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*"
"Share the access key with your Legacy Contact
The access key is extremely important—your Legacy Contact must have both the access key and your death certificate* to request access after you pass away. Then they'll need the access key again to set up a legacy contact Apple ID and access your data.
- If your Legacy Contact is using a device with iOS 15.2, iPadOS 15.2, or macOS Monterey 12.1 or later, you can notify them via Messages when you add them, and if they accept, they automatically store a copy of the access key in their Apple ID settings. You’ll receive a notification if they decline your Legacy Contact request, and you can choose someone else.
- If your Legacy Contact is using an Apple device with older software, you can ask them to update to iOS 15.2, iPadOS 15.2, or macOS Monterey 12.1. Then you can use the Send a Message option to allow them to receive and store the access key on their device. Or you can print out and give them a copy of the access key.
- If you add someone who doesn’t have an Apple device or can't access Legacy Contact settings on their device, you'll need to give them a physical copy of the access key. You can print a copy of the access key and give it to them, send them a PDF or screenshot of the page, or save a copy with your estate planning documents.
Note: If you use Send a Message to share the access key, it's a good idea to confirm that your Legacy Contact received it. However you share the access key, you may also want to print and save a copy of their access key with your estate planning documents."
Best regards.