Unable to access old Apple ID to cancel subscription

Question

Unable to access old Apple ID to cancel subscription

Sorry to bother you, but a few years ago I had an Apple tablet, which I had to replace because it stopped working, and I created a new Apple ID on the tablet I bought afterwards.

The problem now is that I had made some in-app purchases on the old tablet, specifically a subscription to a game.

So, to deactivate the subscription, which is still active, I need to log back into the old Apple ID.

To access the old Apple ID, I am asked for the old phone number, which I no longer have. To solve the problem, I need to replace the old phone number with the one I currently have.

What should I do?

iPad Air (3rd generation)

Posted on Nov 27, 2025 1:06 PM

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Answer 1

Top-ranking reply

Phil0124

Level 10

216,692 points

Nov 27, 2025 1:52 PM in response to Bea95jg75hf84

Without access to the account you can't change the number.

You either go through the recovery process, or contact Apple Support directly

click here ➜ How to use account recovery when you can’t reset your Apple Account password - Apple Support

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Answer 2

Limnos

Level 10

426,737 points

Nov 28, 2025 5:39 AM in response to Bea95jg75hf84

Try entering the number even if it isn't active. Apple just wants to see that you know it and you aren't a scam artist trying to fake your way into the account. Unless you can pass security tests, Apple won't cancel the subscription.

If you do not remember the number then you will have to apply for account recovery. Get Apple’s own instructions in this article: How to use account recovery when you can’t reset your Apple Account password - Apple Support Account recovery might take a few days or longer, depending on the specific account information you can provide to verify your identity. One tip to using account recovery it to look for options in small blue letters beneath the normal log-in items if you cannot complete the requested information.

Here are links to posts by Community contributors which provide additional detail about the account recovery process and what to do if you do not receive a text or call: Activation Lockout Issues - Apple Community and How can I reset my Apple Account password? - Apple Community and How to delete Apple ID when you can't log… - Apple Community This thread outlines the multi-step process and final recovery —> My Apple ID is locked, how do I fix it? - Apple Community , and this one about things you should and should not do while waiting —> How can I recover my Apple ID after multi… - Apple Community

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