How do I remove an old Apple ID from a device?

Hello TheRemister,

The ID can only be removed using information for the account that applied the lock. If you know this information follow the onscreen steps to enter the Apple ID and password used to set up the device, or enter the device passcode.

If you do not know the required information and you are not the original owner, get the owner of the account to remove the lock ( How to remove Activation Lock - https://support.apple.com/HT201441 ), or return the device for a refund or recycle it. The device is otherwise useless to you. If the owner is unknown and has not provided contact information as a message showing in the login screen, there is no way to contact the owner unless the person who gave you the device knows them.

If you are the original owner and have forgotten the log-in information, try to recover it:

• "If you forgot your Apple ID" [this is likely an email address you are using or used in the past] click here --> https://support.apple.com/HT201354

• "If you forgot your Apple ID password" click here --> https://support.apple.com/HT201487

Otherwise:

- Apple can remove a lock if a person can provide sufficient evidence of valid ownership. Do this online here --> https://al-support.apple.com/#/additional-support Apple says, "Proof of ownership documentation is required," but does not state what constitutes proof. In the past this has been the receipt issued by an Apple Authorized dealer with the name of the first owner and a documented chain of ownership after that (so usually it has to be the first owner who does this, or a descendant with court issued documents). This online service is a new feature so there may be startup issues and processing time.*

Alternatively you may be able to do this at an Apple Store.

* https://discussions.apple.com/thread/252492100?answerId=254703771022#254703771022