Add Recovery & Legacy Contacts for your Apple Account

Introduction

Apple includes important tools in iPadOS that help you prepare for the unexpected. Two of the most valuable are Recovery Contacts and Legacy Contacts. These options make sure you don’t lose access to your iPad and Apple account if you get locked out, and they also give trusted family members access to your information if something happens to you. Setting these up is a smart way to keep your digital life secure and organized.

Where to Find Recovery & Legacy Contacts

Both Recovery and Legacy Contacts are found in the Settings app under your Apple ID profile. Tap your name at the top of Settings, then select Sign-In & Security. Here, you’ll see options for setting up both types of contacts. Keeping them in this central location makes it easier to manage all account-related settings in one place.

What is a Recovery Contact

A Recovery Contact is someone you trust who can help you regain access to your Apple account if you ever forget your password or get locked out. Instead of losing access to your iCloud data, photos, or even your device, your Recovery Contact can provide you with a code that helps you get back in. It’s like having a spare key to your account. This contact doesn’t get full access to your data—they only help you recover your account.

What is a Legacy Contact

A Legacy Contact is slightly different. This person is chosen to access your Apple account and personal data if you pass away. Once Apple receives the proper verification, your Legacy Contact can access information like photos, notes, and files. This ensures your loved ones won’t lose important memories or documents that are stored in iCloud. Choosing a Legacy Contact is an important step in planning for the future.

Wrap Up

Setting up Recovery and Legacy Contacts only takes a few minutes, but it can prevent major problems later. A Recovery Contact helps you regain access to your account if you get locked out, while a Legacy Contact ensures that trusted family members can access your information if needed. With both in place, your Apple account is more secure and your important data is safeguarded for the future.