Turn off iCloud and Find My before selling your iPhone
3 min read · Updated on June 16, 2026
An iPhone that's still linked to an iCloud account can't be bought back: Activation Lock makes it useless to anyone else. Here's how to get your device ready, in two minutes.
1. Back up your data
First, get your iPhone to safety. Settings › your name › iCloud › iCloud Backup, then "Back Up Now". You can also plug the device into a computer for a local backup.
Make sure the backup actually finished before you go on: you'll find your photos, messages and settings again on your next device.
2. Turn off Find My iPhone
Go to Settings › your name › Find My › Find My iPhone and switch the option off. You'll be asked for your Apple password.
This is the step that lifts Activation Lock. Without it, the device stays tied to your account, even after a reset.
3. Sign out of iCloud
Still in Settings › your name, scroll all the way down and tap "Sign Out". Enter your password to confirm.
4. Reset the device
Settings › General › Transfer or Reset iPhone › Erase All Content and Settings. The iPhone restarts like it just came out of the box.
Don't forget to take out your SIM card if it's still inside.