Apple Serial Number Error: 'Can't Verify Purchase Date' — What Does It Mean?

I'm trying to buy a refurbished item but when I insert the serial number on the apple website I get the error "Can't verify purchase date". What does this mean and is this apple item still legit?

Posted on May 28, 2025 2:37 AM

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3 replies

May 28, 2025 7:28 AM in response to MadeOfPixels_

If you get a "We're unable to validate your product's purchase date" warning, go here:


On the other hand, if you see "Invalid Serial Number," this message generally indicates that the device you have was serviced or even replaced previously. If you're considering purchasing this device, then it's likely that the original owner had the device replaced but did not return this device to Apple as they should have. If this is the case, I would caution you against making the purchase.

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Apple Serial Number Error: 'Can't Verify Purchase Date' — What Does It Mean?

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