How to manage your Apple Account in Mac System Settings

From changing your Apple Account email address to checking your Apple Cash Balance, you can access and manage your Apple ID account information right from your Mac’s System Settings, and this guide walks you through it.

System Settings on Mac

Access your Apple Account

Apple Account in Mac System Settings

Open System Settings on your Mac, and you’ll see the Apple Account or Apple ID option in the top left corner. Click it to access your account information.

You’ll see your account profile picture, which matches the My Info picture in the Contacts app. Under it, you’ll see your Apple ID name and email address.

If you’re on an older version of macOS, open System Preferences and click the Apple ID option from the main view.

Manage your personal information

Personal Information in Mac System Settings

Click Personal Information to view your name and birthday. You can update them if they are incorrect. Furthermore, you can manage your email communication preferences from Apple and set age range permissions for apps.

Manage Sign-In & Security

Sign In and Security in Mac System Settings

Next, select the Sign-In & Security option from the main Apple Account screen. This lets you manage the following:

Check Payment & Shipping

Payment and Shipping on Apple ID screen on Mac

Adjust your default payment method for purchases, view your Apple Cash and Apple Card balances if applicable, and edit your shipping address. On newer versions of macOS, you can manage them at account.apple.com.

Manage iCloud

iCloud settings in Mac System Settings

Click iCloud from your main Apple Account screen in System Settings, and manage how apps sync iCloud data to this computer. You can also manage your iCloud storage and iCloud+ offerings.

Additionally, you can enable Advanced Data Protection to enable end-to-end encryption for more apps and services.

Lastly, turning off Access iCloud Data on the Web will prevent you from accessing iCloud Mail, Contacts, Calendar events, Photos, and more at iCloud.com.

Media & Purchases

Media and Purchases in Mac System Settings

You can adjust your purchase settings for the App Store, Books Store, and media store (Music, TV) here. You can choose whether to enter your Apple Account password or use Touch ID when you initiate a free download or make a purchase. You can also hit the Manage button to take care of your account and ongoing subscriptions.

Family Sharing

Family settings in Mac System Settings

Use it to set up and manage your family members added to your Family Sharing. You can also use this screen to create an Apple ID for your child.

Manage your devices

Devices in Apple ID System Settings

Finally, this screen lists all the devices where you’re using your Apple Account. You’ll see all of those listed and can click one for further details and actions.

For instance, if you view your iPhone or iPad, you can see your model, version, serial number, whether Find My is on, and more.

Also, check out: How to keep your Apple ID and iCloud ID secure