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How to Handle the "This Device is Already Associated with an Apple Account" Message

Updated over 2 weeks ago

Description

When you receive a message stating “This device is already associated with an Apple Account” it indicates that the device you are using is linked to an Apple Account and subjected to certain restrictions about how it can be used with other accounts.

There are several important rules to know when associating devices with an Apple Account.

  • An Apple Account can have a limited number of devices linked to it at any one time.

    • To add a new device, you might need to remove an existing one from your account.

    • The process to remove a device involves clicking “Remove” next to the device in the Apple Account account settings. If a device can’t be removed, it should be signed out of the Apple Account and then removal attempted again.

  • If a device has been recently associated with another Apple Account, it cannot be linked to a new one for up to 90 days. This limitation helps secure user information and prevent unauthorized transfers.

Note: Apple imposes a 90-day waiting period to re-associate the device with a different Apple Account after it has been linked with one. This policy aims to enhance security and manage the permissions for digital content across various Apple services.

Fixing the "This Device is Already Associated with an Apple Account" Message

There are different scenarios where this message may arise:

Scenario

Possible Cause

Troubleshooting

You see this message when trying to sign in with your Apple Account.

The device is already associated with a different Apple Account.

1. Sign out of the existing Apple Account on the device (if possible).
2. Check if it’s your own forgotten Account: Go to Settings > iTunes & App Store and verify the Apple Account listed. If it’s yours, sign in with the correct password.
3. If it’s not your Account: You’ll need to wait 90 days before associating the device with a different Apple Account. This is a security measure by Apple.

You’re unsure why you see this message.

You might have used a different Account in the past to download content (apps, music, etc.).

If you see the option to 'Cancel' or 'Transfer', selecting 'Transfer' should allow access to the content without issue.

However, if we don't see the 'Transfer' option then, unfortunately, the 90-day wait period likely applies here too. Consider contacting Apple Support to explain the situation and see if they can offer any exceptions.

Understanding the underlying mechanisms of Apple Account device associations is crucial to managing your devices effectively. If a device needs to be disassociated, it can usually be done through the device’s settings. However if a device cannot be removed from the associated Apple Account within the settings, one may need to sign out on the device itself. When neither option resolves the issue, waiting for the stipulated period may be the only recourse.

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