Cannot change child accounts DOB details - keep getting a server issue.

Question

Cannot change child accounts DOB details - keep getting a server issue.

Hello,

I’ve tried numerous times over the past few weeks to alter my child’s date of birth as it was entered incorrectly and the account is 13 years. My child is not 13. My child is under my account in family sharing. I could not make this change myself.

So I’ve followed the steps to change via logging into my child’s account to enter the correct DOB, which triggers an email to me to verify the change. A text verification is required which for some reason comes through listed as “PayPal: xxxxxx is your security code. Don't share your code.” Via text message. The code has come through this way every single time I’ve tried it. When I enter the code, I get a server error and cannot complete the change.

I've attached a screenshot below of the error. If it helps, I have an iPhone 14 Pro Max and my child’s phone is a Pro Max 11

[Edited by Moderator]

iPhone 14 Pro Max, iOS 18

Posted on Aug 29, 2025 6:45 PM

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Answer 1

Top-ranking reply

Chattanoogan

Level 7

31,760 points

Aug 29, 2025 7:22 PM in response to ToThoseWhoWander

You’ll likely find it easier and more reliable to simply - and properly - create a new child’s account.

This will also ensure that all of the appropriate logical linkages are established to the Family Organizer’s Apple Account and devices.

Create an Apple Account for your child - Apple Support

Use parental controls on your child's iPhone or iPad - Apple Support

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Answer 2

Aug 29, 2025 7:33 PM in response to ToThoseWhoWander

They are indeed VERY “sensitive” about NOT allowing children’s accounts to be modified by potentially unauthorized individuals.

One more reason to just “start-over” anew.

Much easier to do now - while the child is only 7 - than waiting until the child is older.

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Answer 3

Aug 29, 2025 7:21 PM in response to Chattanoogan

I might add, I need to change this as the device is used to communicate with myself and family only. Now the account is 13, my child can remove themselves from family sharing. I’ve locked down safari etc to protect my child and want to maintain this until they are of age to understand risks more.

from Apple:

However, your child’s account cannot be removed from your Family, unless their Apple Account is deleted, they turn 13 years of age (or equivalent minimum age depending on jurisdiction), or you transfer them to another Family. Once your child reaches the age of 13 (or equivalent minimum age depending on jurisdiction), they will be permitted to maintain their account without participating in Family Sharing.

source: Legal - Family Privacy Disclosure for Children - Apple

if I delete can I use the same email to remake an Apple ID?

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Answer 4

Aug 29, 2025 7:43 PM in response to Chattanoogan

It’s email and text verified to change. I had to login via my passcode from the link on the email. Still very frustrating. If it’s not even possible why even offer it as an option? The amount of time I’ve spent trying to sort this out

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