How do I permanently delete an iCloud account?

What happens when I delete an iCloud account?

• You will not be able to access your Apple services or your App Store media purchases.
• Your photos, videos and documents stored in iCloud will be permanently deleted.
• You will not receive messages sent to your account via iMessage, FaceTime, or iCloud Mail.
• You will not be able to sign in or use services such as iCloud, Apple Books, the App Store, Apple Pay, Messages, FaceTime, and Find My, or any other apps or services you use with your Apple ID.
• Your data associated with Apple services will be permanently deleted. Some exceptions may apply.
• The email address that you use with your Apple ID account, XXXXXXX@icloud.com, will no longer be available for use with any new or existing Apple ID. To ensure that it can’t be used again, a record of this email address will remain on file with Apple.
• If you are enrolled in the iPhone upgrade program, you must continue making payments for your device.
• Deletion does not cancel any repairs or Apple Store orders. However, any appointments you have scheduled at the Apple Store will be canceled and any open Apple Care cases will be permanently closed and unavailable once your account is deleted.

How do I permanently delete an iCloud account?

Here are the general steps to permanently delete an iCloud account:

1. Backup Your Data: Before deleting your iCloud account, make sure to back up any important data, such as photos, documents, contacts, and app data, to ensure you don’t lose anything valuable.
2. Sign Out: On your device, go to “Settings” > [your name] > “Sign Out”. If you’re using an older version of iOS, you might find “Settings” > “iCloud” > “Sign Out”.
3. Choose What to Keep: During the sign-out process, you’ll be asked whether you want to keep a copy of your data on the device or delete it. Choose the appropriate option based on your preference.
4. Enter Your Password: You might be asked to enter your Apple ID password to disable the Find My feature and sign out.
5. Deactivate Activation Lock: If you have an iOS device, you may need to deactivate Activation Lock by entering your Apple ID password and removing the device from your account. This is important if you plan to sell or give away the device.
6. Remove Device from Account: If you’re no longer using the device associated with the iCloud account, you should remove the device from your account by going to the iCloud website and managing your devices.
7. Request Account Deletion: Visit https://privacy.apple.com, login with the Apple ID and password for the iCloud you would like to permanently delete. On the page click under the heading . Select the reason you want to delete the account and verify the information requested.
8. Record the provided code: Apple will provide you with a access code XXXX-XXXX-XXXX, write down the code, it will be needed to contact Apple regarding the deletion or to cancel the deletion within 24 hours
9. Watch your provided alternate email: Apple will confirm with you when your account is deleted.
10. Contact Apple Support: If you’re facing issues or have questions, it’s always a good idea to contact Apple Support for assistance. They can guide you through the process and help with any account-related concerns.

Remember, when you delete an iCloud account it is a significant step and could affect access to your Apple services, app purchases, and more. Be sure to fully understand the consequences before proceeding. Always refer to the latest guidance from Apple to ensure you’re following the correct steps to delete an iCloud account.

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