As of 2025, Apple holds a prevalent user base of over 2.35 billion people globally, many storing important information in their Apple devices and iCloud. Users have two options on how to handle this information once they’re gone. A family member can request access to an account after the user’s death or a user can assign a legacy contact prior to their death.
Without a legacy contact, family members can request access but this method doesn’t guarantee much. If a device is password locked, the device will need to be restored to factory settings before removing the lock. Essentially, you will be receiving a shell device with no evidence of the prior user. To gain access, the member must present a death certificate and a court order or other related documentation.
Having a legacy contact is the simplest way to securely entrust someone with your data. This feature recently rolled out for iOS 15.2, iPadOS 15.2 and macOS 12.1 To do this, first, you need to make sure to have two factor authentication turned on and be above the age of 13. Then go to your Settings and tap on your name. Go to Sign-In and Security and find Legacy Contact. Here, you can click Add Legacy Contact. You can elect multiple people to be legacy contacts and will receive an access key once you do. After your death, your contacts can file an access request here and all they need will be the access key and your death certificate. This method streamlines the process of providing your beneficiaries access to your digital assets without a long legal process and allows them to see your photos, messages and files.
Blessings,
Jack E. Stephens, J.D., LL.M