Sign up on FamilySearch for free using Apple or link existing accounts

Article Id: 22119
March 13, 2024
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Link a FamilySearch Username to an Apple ID

A free FamilySearch account provides wider access to resources on the FamilySearch website. Now new and existing accounts have the option of using their Apple sign-in information to create a free FamilySearch account.

If you use this option, your privacy remains protected:

  • The only thing Apple knows is that you used your Apple username and password to sign in to FamilySearch. No additional information about you or your family history is shared.
  • FamilySearch does not post any content to your Apple feed by default.

Steps for creating account (website or mobile app)

  1. Go to FamilySearch.org, or open the FamilySearch Family Tree or Memories mobile app.
  2. Click Create Account or Create Free Account.​​
  3. Click Sign up with Apple.
  4. Enter your Apple username and password.
  5. Click Log In. Apple asks you to allow FamilySearch to obtain your name, profile picture, and email address. The information comes over to your FamilySearch account.
  6. Click Continue.

  7. Select if you want to receive messages from FamilySearch about updates, events, and ancestors.

    Note: Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints can add membership information. Click the second option. Text fields drop down to add your birth date and Church record number.

  8. Click Continue with Apple.
  9. You can include a mobile number and a birth date. The information along with your email help determine if you already have an account.
  10. Click Continue with Apple.

Duplicate Accounts

If the system finds an existing account, you get a notification informing you have a FamilySearch account. You are directed to sign in to your FamilySearch account or recover your username or password. After you sign in, Apple becomes a sign-in option.

  1. Go to FamilySearch.org
  2. Click Continue with Apple.
  3. Enter your Apple username and password.
  4. Click Log In.
  5. Click Continue.
  6. Sign into your FamilySearch account as you complete linking your accounts.

Possible Interruptions

If a system problem interrupts an initial Apple ID registration, future attempts might not connect with your Apple account properly. If something like this happens, the firstname is set to "Apple" and lastname to "User". After you log in, set the correct username under FamilySearch account settings.

How do I create a free FamilySearch account using Google?
How do I create a free FamilySearch account using Facebook?
How do I request that FamilySearch resend a verification email for my Account?
How do I request resend a verification code to activate my FamilySearch account?
How do I create a free account for a child?
What are the rules for my username and password?
Can I create accounts with a shared email address?
How do I help another person create an account?

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