How to set up account recovery contacts on iPhone

Learn how to designate trusted contacts for Apple ID recovery to ensure you never lose access to your data or account.

1. Open Apple ID settings. Open the Settings app on your iPhone. Tap your name at the very top of the menu to access your Apple ID profile.
2. Access sign-in and security. Select the Sign-In & Security option from the list. This menu contains your primary authentication and recovery configurations.
3. Choose account recovery. Tap the Account Recovery row. This will display your current recovery settings, including contacts and recovery keys.
4. Add a recovery contact. Tap Add Recovery Contact. Tap the button again when prompted to confirm your intent. You may be required to authenticate using Face ID or your device passcode.
5. Select and notify your contact. Choose a contact from your list who also uses an Apple device. Review the pre-written message provided by Apple, then tap Send to invite them to become your recovery contact.