Apple ID registration

Here is what they are up against

• Restore your iPhone, iPad, or iPod to factory settings - Apple Support
• Use a passcode with your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch - Apple Support
• If you forgot the passcode for your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch, or your device is disabled - Apple Support

If you set up THEIR iPad with a passcode that only you know, it seems as though that you are obligated to remedy their situation

I did not "accuse you" of anything, Caroline.
I am referring to setting up a "passCODE" to prevent just anyone from picking up the iPad and waking it up. It is a security measure similar the new-ish TouchID (fingerprint) and the brand-new FaceID on the iPhoneX

This has nothing to do with your AppleID - it is entirely "local" to the device (stored ON it)

When you were "issued" the iPad by the company, they should have foreseen the day that they would replace the iPad for you OR the day that you would leave their employ

When you got the iPad, what instructions did they give you on setting it up?

A company that deploys iDevices has methods and means provided by Apple = see Device Enrollment Program section of Business - Products and Platforms - Apple

At bottom, you agree that they own the iPad and they are telling you that they are being foiled in their attempt to erase it. They may need to Contact Apple Support and still possibly need your help.

Would you be more comfortable hearing from Apple Support? (we are user volunteers, so we can only offer advice)

You probably never fully logged out of the work device. I'm not sure what code they're asking you for whether that has to do with iCloud Keychain or Two-factor authentication.

If you never fully logged out of the device, then it's possible it has an Activation Lock. However, if they may know your work ID and password, then most likely the code they're referring to could be from two-factor authentication.

Just to add a little to friend CCC's post. It may be that you used the same passcode for their machine and yours. If that is the case, you will need to change the passcode on your machine ... and afterwards you can pass on your old passcode to them safely.

When you were working there you had no reason to think you may be leaving so using the same code for both machines seemed okay. But things change and if you did not part company on the best of terms this may need someone giving way. Perhaps yourself?

Can you get in touch with the previous employer to ask why they need the ID and password? If might be as simple as they are trying to update apps that were downloaded using your Apple ID. If that is the case, they can delete the apps and download them with the current ID if desired.

Okay Caroline. Big sorry for the misunderstanding.