How to remove permanently disabled Apple ID from signed-in iPad?

I requested permanent deletion/disable of my Apple ID but it is still signed in on my iPad. I need assistance removing it.


[Re-Titled by Moderator]

iPad, iPadOS 18

Posted on Mar 2, 2026 9:03 AM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Mar 2, 2026 9:41 AM

sarwan167 wrote:

I requested permanent deletion/disable of my Apple ID but it is still signed in on my iPad. I need assistance removing it.


The short version:


This permanent-bricking case was explicitly included — warned about — in the account deletion instructions.


You have one option remaining: present the original purchase receipt to Apple.


This receipt must be from Apple or an Apple authorized reseller, and must include the iPad serial number or IMEI.


If you have that receipt, start an Activation Lock support request: https://support.apple.com/en-us/108934


Otherwise, this iPad is now and will always be a brick. Recycle it.

2 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Mar 2, 2026 9:41 AM in response to sarwan167

sarwan167 wrote:

I requested permanent deletion/disable of my Apple ID but it is still signed in on my iPad. I need assistance removing it.


The short version:


This permanent-bricking case was explicitly included — warned about — in the account deletion instructions.


You have one option remaining: present the original purchase receipt to Apple.


This receipt must be from Apple or an Apple authorized reseller, and must include the iPad serial number or IMEI.


If you have that receipt, start an Activation Lock support request: https://support.apple.com/en-us/108934


Otherwise, this iPad is now and will always be a brick. Recycle it.

Mar 2, 2026 9:24 AM in response to sarwan167

Refer to https://support.apple.com/108934 There are only two ways to remove a lock but the first one using the previous account information is apparently not available to you.


Apple can completely reset a device if a person can provide sufficient evidence of valid ownership. Read the requirements and steps for an Activation Lock support request at: https://al-support.apple.com/#/additional-support and links at the bottom right for the type of service requested. Apple says they “may” require "proof of purchase documentation” and that you need “proof of ownership documentation”, but does not detail what currently constitutes proof other than it “must include the product serial number, IMEI or MEID.” User reports on this community indicate that typically Apple will absolutely require, and ONLY accept, an original receipt issued by Apple or an Apple Authorized Reseller. Presumably this is the only kind Apple can authenticate against fraud since Apple is not involved in third party sales. Apple recommends that you "Keep your receipt after you buy an Apple device" --> https://support.apple.com/HT202711


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.

If you cannot get the device unlocked then read this section from the very bottom of https://www.apple.com/shop/trade-in :

"Does Apple offer recycling?

Yes. Apple Trade In lets you recycle any Apple device (including devices from Apple-owned brands) at any Apple Store and on https://www.apple.com/ for free. That includes your batteries and old electronic products as well as free, on-demand packaging recycling for our commercial, education, and institutional customers. When we receive your device, it will be thoroughly inspected to determine if components can be recycled or reused. Whether recycled or reused, all activities relating to the processing of your device will be managed in an environmentally responsible way."

And read these for future purchases:

https://discussions.apple.com/docs/DOC-250001038

https://support.apple.com/104999



How to remove permanently disabled Apple ID from signed-in iPad?

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