Learn · Your accounts
Secure your Apple Account
5 min · essential
Why this matters. Your Apple Account holds your iCloud photos, backups, messages and Find My. Two-factor authentication means a new device needs a code from one of your trusted devices before it can sign in. A recovery contact, someone you trust, can help you back in if you're locked out.
1
Open Sign-In & Security
Settings, then your name, then Sign-In & Security. Two-Factor Authentication should say On.
9:41
‹ Your name
Sign-In & Security
Email & Phone Numbers
Change Password
Two-Factor Authentication
Should be On
Account Recovery
2
Add a recovery contact
Tap Account Recovery (Recovery Contacts on some versions), then Add Recovery Contact, and choose a family member you trust.
Check your understanding
What can a recovery contact do?
Give you a code that helps you get back into your Apple Account. They can't see your data.
Want a checklist that tracks this for your whole family? Sign in to HomeOS.
Checked against:
Apple: Two-factor authentication for Apple Account · Apple: Set up a recovery contact
· last reviewed 2026-09