Because forgetting your Apple ID password shouldn’t mean losing your digital soul.
Let’s face it. At some point, we’ve all stared at the Apple ID login screen like it betrayed us. Thankfully, Apple has a neat little feature called Recovery Contact — your personal tech guardian angel who can help you get back into your account without going full Sherlock Holmes on your passwords.
Here’s how to set it up in less than 3 minutes (yes, we timed it):
Requirements First (Apple likes conditions)
Before we begin, you need:
iOS 15 or later / iPadOS 15 or later / macOS Monterey or later
Two-factor authentication enabled
Your Apple devices signed in with your Apple ID
The contact must be 13+ and using iOS 15+ or macOS Monterey+
How to Add a Recovery Contact
On iPhone or iPad:
Open Settings
Tap your name at the top (aka your Apple ID)
Go to Password & Security
Tap Account Recovery
Tap Add Recovery Contact
Authenticate (Face ID/Touch ID/Passcode)
Select a trusted contact (like your partner, tech-savvy friend, or your go-to guy… Hey Charu?)
Tap Add — they’ll get a notification and have to accept
On Mac:
Click the Apple menu > System Settings
Click your Apple ID
Go to Password & Security > Account Recovery
Click + to add a Recovery Contact
Choose someone from your contacts and confirm
Pro Tip:
Pick someone who won’t say “What’s an Apple ID?” when you call them in panic mode. Your Recovery Contact can’t see your data, but they can help unlock your account.
If You Ever Get Locked Out:
Ask your Recovery Contact to generate a recovery code from their device. Use it to get back in. Done. Crisis averted.
Need Help Setting This Up?
Come by NeoStore, or just ping us. We’ll do the boring steps so you don’t have to.
We’re basically your recovery contact in real life.