How to set up Account Recovery on iPad

Difficulty
Beginner
Tested on
iPadOS 18.4 - iPad Pro M4
You will need
Apple ID with two-factor authentication enabled, iPad updated to current iPadOS

Step by step

  1. 30 sec

    Open Apple ID settings

    Launch the Settings app from your Home Screen. Tap your name at the very top of the left-hand sidebar to access your Apple ID profile.

  2. 20 sec

    Access Sign-In & Security

    Tap the Sign-In & Security option within the main profile view. This section houses all identity-related settings for your account.

  3. 20 sec

    Choose Account Recovery

    Locate and tap on the Account Recovery menu item. If prompted, enter your iPad passcode to authenticate your request.

  4. 1 min

    Add a recovery contact

    Tap Add Recovery Contact. You will be prompted to select a contact from your list or enter an email address associated with an Apple ID.

    Note: Choose someone you trust implicitly, as this person can verify your identity to Apple if you are locked out.
  5. 30 sec

    Send the invitation

    Review the pre-populated message that explains the role of a Recovery Contact. Tap Send to dispatch the invitation to your chosen contact.

  6. 10 sec

    Confirm the status

    Once the contact accepts your request, they will appear under the Account Recovery menu in your Apple ID settings. The status will update to display their name as an active contact.

    Note: You can manage or remove recovery contacts at any time from this same menu.