Where to check your AppleCare status
The fastest way to check if you have AppleCare is to look it up on Apple's website using your Apple ID. Go to appleid.apple.com, sign in with the same Apple ID linked to your device, and look for a section called "Devices" or "My Support." Any AppleCare plan tied to that account will show there with its coverage dates and what's included.
If you bought AppleCare at the same time as your device, it should already be connected to your Apple ID automatically. If you added it later or bought it from a retailer, you may need to register it first — Apple will walk you through that process on the same page.
You can also check directly on your device. On an iPhone or iPad, go to Settings > General > About, scroll down, and look for "Limited Warranty" or "AppleCare" information. On a Mac, click the Apple menu in the top left, select About This Mac, then click System Report and look for warranty information in the left sidebar.
Key Takeaways
- Sign into appleid.apple.com and check the Devices section to see all AppleCare plans linked to your Apple ID.
- Your device's Settings or About section will show your current warranty status and whether AppleCare is active.
- AppleCare purchased with your device activates automatically, but coverage added later may need to be registered first.
- Your AppleCare plan shows the exact end date and what repairs or replacements are covered under your agreement.
- If you cannot find your coverage information, contact Apple Support with your device serial number and they can look it up for you.
Checking through the Apple Support app
The Apple Support app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac is another straightforward way to see your coverage. Open the app, tap or click on your device, and scroll to the warranty and coverage section. The app will show your AppleCare status, the expiration date, and what type of coverage you have — whether it's AppleCare+ (which includes accidental damage), standard AppleCare, or just the basic limited warranty that comes with every Apple device.
This method works even if you are not at home or do not have your original paperwork. The app pulls information directly from Apple's servers, so it is always current.
What your AppleCare information tells you
When you find your AppleCare status, you will see several pieces of information. The coverage type tells you what kind of plan you have — AppleCare+ covers accidental damage and hardware failures, while standard AppleCare covers hardware failures only. The expiration date shows when your coverage ends. The incident history (if available) shows any repairs or replacements you have already used.
AppleCare+ plans typically last two years from the purchase date of your device, though some newer plans offer longer coverage. Standard AppleCare usually covers one year of hardware support. If your coverage has expired, you can still get repairs, but you will pay the full cost instead of the reduced AppleCare price.
Pay attention to whether your plan includes theft and loss coverage. This is only available in certain countries and is not included in all AppleCare+ plans — it is an add-on option. If you have it, your plan will say so explicitly.
If you cannot find your AppleCare information
If you have looked in all the places above and still cannot find your coverage details, contact Apple Support directly. Have your device's serial number ready — you can find this in Settings > General > About on your device, or on the original box or receipt. Apple Support can look up your account and tell you exactly what coverage you have, when it expires, and what it covers.
If you bought AppleCare from a third-party retailer like Best Buy or Amazon, the coverage may be registered under a different account or email address. In that case, you will need the original receipt or order confirmation to prove you purchased it, and Apple can help you transfer it to your Apple ID.
Understanding the difference between AppleCare types
Apple offers different AppleCare plans depending on your device. AppleCare+ is the most comprehensive option and covers accidental damage like drops and water damage, hardware failures, and battery replacement if your battery health drops below 80 percent. Standard AppleCare covers hardware failures and technical support but not accidental damage. The basic limited warranty that comes free with every Apple device covers hardware defects for one year but not damage you cause.
When you check your coverage, the information will clearly state which type you have. If you have AppleCare+ and have used it for repairs, your coverage continues until the expiration date — using it once does not end your plan.
What to do if your AppleCare has expired
If your AppleCare coverage has ended, you have a few options. You can still get repairs through Apple, but you will pay out-of-pocket — the cost depends on what is wrong with your device. You can also purchase AppleCare+ after your device purchase, though Apple has time limits on when you can add it (usually within 60 days of buying your device, though this varies).
Some carriers like Verizon and AT&T offer their own device protection plans that work similarly to AppleCare. If you have a plan through your carrier, check with them about coverage and costs. Independent repair shops may also offer repairs at lower prices than Apple, though they will not use genuine Apple parts in all cases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I check AppleCare coverage on someone else's device?
No — AppleCare is tied to the Apple ID that purchased it. You can only see coverage details if you sign into that Apple ID. If you are helping someone else check their coverage, they will need to sign in with their own Apple ID or contact Apple Support with their device serial number.
What if I lost my receipt and do not remember when I bought AppleCare?
Sign into appleid.apple.com and check your purchase history under "Media and Purchases." You can also contact Apple Support with your device serial number, and they can tell you the exact purchase date and expiration date of your coverage without needing a receipt.
Does AppleCare cover my device if I sell it to someone else?
AppleCare is tied to the device, not the owner. When you sell your device, the new owner can use the remaining AppleCare coverage if they set up the device with their own Apple ID. They will need to contact Apple Support to transfer the coverage to their account, and they will need proof of purchase or the original receipt.
Can I add AppleCare after I already own my device?
Yes, but only within a limited time window — usually 60 days from when you bought your device. After that, Apple will not let you add AppleCare+. Check appleid.apple.com to see if the option to purchase AppleCare is still available for your device. If it is not, you have missed the window.
What happens if I have AppleCare but my device is stolen?
Standard AppleCare does not cover theft. AppleCare+ includes theft and loss coverage only in certain countries and only if you purchased that add-on when you bought the plan. Check your coverage details to see if theft and loss is listed. If it is, you can file a claim with Apple. If it is not, you will need to file a claim with your homeowner's or renter's insurance instead.