I'm facing some frustrating challenges with Apple authentication and I'm hoping someone here can help me find a workaround. I only have a MacBook Pro and an old Apple account I used for Apple TV. When trying to log in, I initiated a password reset which led to a series of complications:
1. I successfully reset my password.
2. I was prompted to verify my payment method but despite entering the correct CVC, it was rejected.
3. I updated the CVC in my mobile app, but it was still said to be incorrect.
4. As a workaround, I changed my payment method on Apple Music to a different credit card, which worked, but then it also got rejected during the login verification.
5. I attempted to remove all payment methods.
6. The system then asked for my phone number for two-factor authentication. After entering the number and the verification code, I received various generic errors.
7. I tried different phone numbers and both SMS and phone call verification, but nothing worked.
8. I ended up being rate limited.
9. After 24 hours, I tried again, but the errors persisted.
10. I updated my payment method to PayPal.
11. Now, the login process asks for the verification code from PayPal instead of a phone number. I enter the code, and it gives me an "unknown error."
12. I switched my payment method back to phone billing, but I still get the same unknown error during login verification.
13. I removed my payment methods again, only to see an error stating that my payment method isn't supported when I try to verify my phone number for 2FA.
14. I've reset my account multiple times, but the issues keep resurfacing.
It's been impossible to reach out to support, as their contact on social media doesn't allow DMs, and the support app requires an iPhone. I'm in the Netherlands, my address is valid, and I've used this account for transactions before. If anyone has faced a similar issue and knows a solution, I'd really appreciate your help!
4 Answers
It's definitely frustrating dealing with Apple’s authentication issues. Make sure to clear your payment methods and try again. If those random errors keep popping up, maybe the support team can escalate it. They can sometimes resolve internal issues on their end that might be blocking your access. Hang in there!
If you haven't already, try visiting the official support page for Apple and look for live chat options. It's sometimes faster than calling, especially when you're having complex issues like this. Just make sure to have all your details ready for an agent.
Honestly, just calling seems like the best option. Even though talking over the phone feels a bit outdated, they might be able to help you faster. Just be prepared to repeat your steps, they may need a detailed explanation to help you effectively.
Yeah, I get that. I might give it one last shot with a call, even though it feels clunky. Thanks for the advice!
Have you tried to contact Apple support directly? I found their contact info on their website, and it’s usually the most reliable way to get help. You can find their phone number for your region at support.apple.com/contact. It's a better option than social media for something this complex. Good luck!
I did search for Apple support online, but since I don't have the iPhone app, I've struggled to get any help. I feel like in 2026, there should be better ways to reach customer service!
Thanks! It feels like I'm going in circles with the same problems. The phone support said my account should be straightforward, but it doesn’t feel that way right now.