Unlock your devices in 3 steps
Recover data in 3 steps
Feb 21, 2025 • Filed to: Remove Screen Lock • Proven solutions
It can be very annoying when you find that your Apple ID does not exist. This error might arise when you try to sign in or use your Apple ID to access some services, for instance, iCloud, App Store, and Apple Music suddenly. You might wonder why Apple says my Apple ID does not exist and what steps to take next.
This guide explains the common causes of this issue and provides easy solutions to get your Apple ID working again. Learn to troubleshoot this error with methods that anyone can follow, even if my Apple ID does not exist anymore appears unexpectedly.
It is rather troublesome to get an error stating that the Apple ID doesn't exist especially if the individual is sure about their details being correct. Here are some of the most common scenarios as described with their meaning
1. While Entering Your Apple ID Password
When asked to enter your Apple ID password (e.g., to download or update apps), you might see a message that Apple says my Apple ID does not exist.
2. During Password Reset or Email Change
If you attempt to reset your Apple ID password or switch your Apple ID to a new email, this message can also appear.
3. After Repeated Requests for Apple ID
Your iPhone may repeatedly prompt you to enter your Apple ID and then show that your Apple ID does not exist anymore or is invalid, even if you enter the correct password.
It may happen for several reasons that the message relating to "your Apple ID does not exist" is being displayed. Maybe you entered the wrong email address or maybe a misspelling mistake, or perhaps you recently deleted or deactivated the account of your Apple ID. Apple may also have trouble recognizing IDs created on older systems if they haven’t been used in a while. Lastly, temporary server issues on Apple’s end could cause this message to appear.
1. Unupdated Email Change: Your Apple ID email was changed, but the update hasn’t synced across all your devices.
2. Using a Secondary Email: Apple may only recognize your Apple ID if you use the primary email, not a secondary one.
3. Device Jailbroken: Jailbreaking your device and installing insecure apps can cause issues with Apple ID recognition.
4. Deactivated Account: If your Apple ID has been deactivated or deleted, it will no longer be recognized by Apple’s systems.
Changing your password might help if you can. Although it says "Apple ID does not exist," resetting your password is not possible due to the lack of an Apple ID. The best way to fix this is to delete your Apple ID from your computer.
If your Apple ID does not exist or has been altered without your knowledge, you can try resetting it. Dr.Fone - Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) is a reliable tool designed to resolve issues you may face with Apple ID. It can also handle scenarios like unlocking an iPhone without a passcode, bypassing screen time limits, removing MDM, and more. With broad compatibility, it supports many iDevice models.
Unlock iPhone/iPad Lock Screen Without Hassle.
Step 1. Start by installing Wondershare Dr.Fone on your computer. After opening the program, go to Toolbox, select Screen Unlock, and choose iOS from the drop-down menu.
Step 2. On the next screen, locate the option labeled "Remove Apple ID" and click on it to initiate the process.
Step 3. Link up your iOS device with the desktop or laptop. Once the device is detected, click on Unlock Now. For devices with iOS/iPadOS 11.4 or later, this action will erase all data, while earlier versions will retain your data.
Step 4. You will need to verify whether the screen lock is enabled on your device. Ensure it is activated and then press the Yes button to continue.
Step 5. Confirm that Two-Factor Authentication is turned on. If it is not enabled, do so and click Yes to proceed.
Step 6. To enter Recovery Mode, follow the on-screen prompts. If you encounter issues, select Try DFU Mode for further guidance.
Step 7. While in Recovery Mode, check the details of your device. Ensure the system version is correct, and click Start, or enter the information manually if needed.
Step 8. The tool will begin downloading the iOS firmware. If the download speed is slow, click Copy for a direct download.
Step 9. Once the firmware has downloaded, the system will validate it. After verification, click Unlock Now to resolve any issues related to your Apple ID.
Step 10. A prompt will appear asking for a confirmation code. After entering the code, tap Unlock to start the Apple ID unlocking process.
Step 11. Keep your device connected while the Apple ID is being removed. Do not disconnect it during this phase.
Step 12. Once the process finishes, a notification will confirm successful removal. Click Done to finalize; if the attempt fails, press Try Again.
Before doing anything further, search iCloud for your Apple ID if you get the "Your Apple ID does not exist" message.
Step 1: Access Settings on Your iPhone
Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
Step 2: Click on Your Name
Press the name that appears on top of the screen.
Step 3: Check iCloud (for iOS 10.2 or Earlier)
If you are using an iPhone with iOS 10.2 or earlier, navigate to the iCloud option within the Settings app.
Step 4: Verify Your Apple ID
Look for any indication that your Apple ID is still signed in to iCloud.
Another way to find your Apple ID that might not exist is through iTunes and the App Store.
Step 1: Go to Settings
Return to the Settings menu on your device.
Step 2: Select iTunes and App Store
Choose the iTunes & App Store option. For iPhones running iOS 10.2 or earlier, you should select iTunes and then App Stores.
Step 3: Check for Your Apple ID
Look at the Apple ID displayed on the screen. If it is not yours and you receive a message stating that Apple ID does not exist, this method may not be effective for you.
If you cannot find your Apple ID through iCloud or iTunes and the App Store, you can attempt to recover it using the Apple website.
Step 1: Visit the Apple ID Recovery Page
Go to iforgot.apple.com and click on the look it up link.
Step 2: Enter Required Information
Input your Apple ID, first name, last name, and recovery email.
Step 3: Verify Your Information
If the information you provided matches the records, the website will display your Apple ID details.
Important Note
This method requires you to know your Apple ID password and the recovery email associated with your account.
If you have ever made a purchase online or requested assistance from Apple support, there might be emails in your inbox related to your Apple ID. To locate these emails, search for terms such as receipts, repairs, support, or billing correspondence from Apple. If your email address appears partially obscured with asterisks, be aware that the number of asterisks may not correspond to the actual number of characters in your email address.
Family Sharing enables you and your relatives to share albums, calendars, and various Apple services. If you and your family members have this feature enabled, you can ask them to check the Family Sharing settings to help you locate your Apple ID.
If you've encountered suggestions to reset your iDevice to its factory settings, please take this warning seriously and DO NOT proceed. Here’s why:
Discovering that your Apple ID does not exist can disrupt your Apple experience, but understanding the reasons behind this message can make troubleshooting easier. Whether it’s due to a simple email error or a more complex account issue, several solutions can help you regain access.
Utilizing tools like Dr.Fone for Apple ID management can streamline the process if other methods fall short. It’s essential to stay informed about your account status and regularly update your recovery information to prevent future issues. By taking proactive steps, you can ensure a seamless experience with all Apple services and maintain control over your account.
staff Editor
