● If an app or feature on your device is not working, not appearing, or is restricted (grayed out), a frequent reason is it may have been disabled using Screen Time, or by an IT administrator if you are using a device owned by an employer or educational institution.
- Read this support article If your Apple ID or other options are greyed out in Settings —> If your Apple Account is grayed out in Settings - Apple Support
Tap your Settings app > Screen Time > Content & Privacy > scroll to Allow Changes and turn on.
- If the device is managed (Settings > General > VPN & Device Management), contact the IT department that is doing the managing.
Since you say you are trying to reset the phone entirely, Apple can completely reset a device if a person can provide sufficient evidence of valid ownership. Check the requirements and steps at: Activation Lock support request - https://al-support.apple.com/#/additional-support Apple says, "Proof of ownership documentation is required," but does not detail what currently constitutes proof other than it “must include the product serial number, IMEI or MEID.” Apple may typically require the original receipt* issued by Apple or an Apple Authorized Reseller. If Apple resets the device this will give you access to the device but won't restore access to the account used to lock it. There is nothing that can be done to expedite an Activation Lock request.
*Apple recommends you "Keep your receipt after you buy an Apple device" --> Keep your receipt after you buy an Apple device - Apple Support