‘Apple account or password incorrect’ while trying to sign into my Macbook Neo after erasing it as the password was still not working. I have reset the password, so I know it’s not incorrect, and now I’m basically locked out. How do I fix this?
MacBook Neo 13″, macOS 26.6
Since you erased the Mac, this sounds more like the activation step than your normal Mac login password.
I’d first make sure you’re entering the same Apple Account email address or phone number that was previously used with Find My on that Mac. Resetting the password doesn’t change which Apple Account the Mac is linked to.
If that’s definitely the correct account and the new password still isn’t accepted, try signing in to your Apple Account on another device or at iCloud.com first. That would help confirm the account and new password are working normally.
Apple also has the steps for Activation Lock here: Activation Lock for Mac - Apple Support
I wouldn’t erase or reset anything again at this point.
Since you erased the Mac, this sounds more like the activation step than your normal Mac login password.
I’d first make sure you’re entering the same Apple Account email address or phone number that was previously used with Find My on that Mac. Resetting the password doesn’t change which Apple Account the Mac is linked to.
If that’s definitely the correct account and the new password still isn’t accepted, try signing in to your Apple Account on another device or at iCloud.com first. That would help confirm the account and new password are working normally.
Apple also has the steps for Activation Lock here: Activation Lock for Mac - Apple Support
I wouldn’t erase or reset anything again at this point.
The message “Apple Account or password incorrect” does not, by itself, establish that Activation Lock is the cause.
After an erase, if the Mac displays “Activate Mac” or an Activation Lock screen, connect it to Wi-Fi and enter the Apple Account information requested.
Apple distinguishes these credentials from the password used to log in to a Mac user account.
Activation Lock can remain enabled after a Mac is erased. (Apple Support)
Because you have already reset your Apple Account password, the next step is to identify exactly which screen is rejecting the credentials.
If you are being asked for an Apple Account password during activation, use the Apple Account email address or phone number and its current password; Apple may also require a verification code. (Apple Support)
I would not perform another erase until we establish what screen you are seeing.
If you upload a photo of the screen containing “Apple Account or password incorrect,” we I can determine which Apple procedure applies and give you the appropriate next steps.
Apple’s relevant guidance is Activation Lock for Mac, If you forgot your Mac login password, and Erase your Mac and reset it to factory settings.
‘Apple account or password incorrect’
