Unable to create a child profile in Family sharing

Hi there

UnfortunatelyThis is a common point of confusion with child accounts on macOS. Apple requires a payment method even if you already have one attached to your own Apple ID.

When you create a child Apple ID, Apple needs a parent/guardian payment method on file.

Even if your Mac App Store has payment details, Apple sometimes doesn’t recognise them for Family Sharing purposes unless they are tied to your Apple ID and verified for purchases.

This is a safety measure to allow Ask to Buy and to verify the parent can approve purchases.

Steps to Fix It

Check Your Payment Method

• Go to System Preferences → Apple ID → Payment & Shipping

• Make sure your current payment method is valid, up to date, and has a billing address.

• Sometimes adding a different valid card temporarily resolves verification issues.

Enable Family Sharing

• Go to System Preferences → Family Sharing

• Make sure you are listed as the organizer.

• Only the Family Organiser can create child accounts.

Create the Child Account

• Open System Preferences → Family Sharing → Add Family Member → Create a Child Account

• Apple will still ask for the payment method.

• Select your existing payment method (from Step 1).

• • Enter your child’s date of birth.

Feel free to reply if this doesn’t solve your issue.