How do I fix an Apple Account email address that says it is already in use?
Answer
This message usually means the address is still attached to another Apple Account, which may be yours or a family member's. Check whether that address is in use on a different Apple Account, remove it there if so, and then try again. Apple also says a removed address can be blocked from linking to another account for 30 days.
Follow these steps
Note the exact message and address
Write down the email address and the exact wording on the screen. Apple's message says the address isn't available or is already in use. Keep these details handy while you check the steps below.
You should see: You have the address and the message written down, so you can compare them with each Apple Account you check.
Check whether another Apple Account uses the address
Think about older Apple Accounts you may have created, and ask whether a family member might use this address on their own account. Apple's guidance is to check whether you or a family member are already using that address with a different Apple Account.
You should see: You know whether the address belongs to an account you control, to a family member's account, or to no account you can identify.
Remove the address from the other account
Sign in to the other Apple Account on an iPhone, then open Settings and tap your name. Choose Sign-In & Security, then tap your primary email address. You can choose Remove from Account, or turn off Primary Email to keep the address on that account while changing its primary address. The exact labels can vary by iOS version, so check Apple's guide on changing your primary email on an Apple Account if they differ.
You should see: The address is no longer the primary email on the other Apple Account, or it has been removed from that account.
Wait if the address was just removed
Apple's guidance says that an email address removed from an Apple Account, other than an iCloud address, can't be linked to another Apple Account for 30 days. If you have just removed it, you may need to wait about 30 days before the address is accepted for your account.
You should see: You know whether the waiting period applies, and you are not repeatedly trying to set up the address in the meantime.
Use a different address if the message remains
If the address is not on any account you control, or the message continues after the removal and waiting period, enter a different email address you have not used with Apple before and try again. If the message still appears, contact Apple Support through its official website or the Apple Support app.
You should see: Either the new address is accepted, or you have a clear next step with Apple Support for the account.
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Extra tips
What to look for: The message says the address isn't available or is already in use, and you can identify whether it belongs to an Apple Account you own or one a family member uses.
Before you change anything: Write down the exact email address and the message on the screen. List the Apple Accounts you or a family member may have created, and note which one might still use this address. Have the sign-in details for that other account, or ask the family member to make the change on their own account. Do not share your password or verification codes with anyone who contacts you about this.
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