What if you want an Apple ID but plan to never pay for a single thing from Apple through that ID? Apple makes that possible, though it’s not a highlighted method, since it’s frequently the case that you will pay Apple for a service or for software.
If you don’t have an Apple ID account or want to set up a fresh one
You can create an Apple ID via the App Store in both iOS/iPadOS and macOS.
In iOS and iPadOS:
- If you have an existing Apple ID account you don’t want to use, log out: go to Settings > account name > Media & Purchases and tap Sign Out.
- Launch the App Store.
- Find an app you can download at no cost. Such apps will have a Get button. Tap Get.
- The App Store prompts you for an Apple ID. Tap Create New Apple ID.
- When prompted for a payment method, select None.
- Follow the remaining steps to validate your account.
In macOS:
- Launch the App Store.
- If you have an existing Apple ID account you don’t want to use, choose Store > Sign Out.
- Find an app you can download at no cost. Such apps will have a Get button. Click Get.
- In the Apple ID dialog that appears, click Create Apple ID.
- Follow prompts. At the point where you’re asked for a payment method, select None.
- Follow the remaining steps to validate your account.
If you have an existing Apple ID
You can remove payment methods from existing Apple ID accounts in some cases. Apple requires a payment method on file if you are the family organizer for a Family Sharing group, and for accounts set up for children under 13.
In iOS and iPadOS:
- Go to Settings > account name > Payment & Shipping.
- Tap the Edit button.
- Tap the remove (minus in a red circle) button for each method.
- Tap Done.
In macOS:
- Launch the App Store.
- Choose Store > View My Account and then click View Information.
- Click Manage Payments.
- Click Edit next to a payment method and click Remove. Repeat for each payment method.
This Mac 911 article is in response to a question submitted by Macworld reader Nancy.
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