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Cathy D.
User level: Level 1 (4 points)

MacBook Verification Key not working.

i forgot the password for my 2025 MacBook Air. Went to reset the password and was told to enter verification key, a new experience for me. After looking up how to find the key, I followed instructions and my computer did not like the key…. I double and triple checked I had the correct key, same thing. Went to my local computer repair and he had no luck — for $150 I was told I need to reset my computer. Has anyone else had this experience?

Posted on Oct 3, 2026 12:44 PM

2 replies

Owl-53
User level: Level 10 (123,805 points)

Oct 4, 2026 2:58 AM in response to Cathy D.

I would not assume from the information provided that the Mac needs to be erased.


Apple has several password-reset options worth trying first.


When resetting a forgotten Mac login password, the recovery steps shown can vary depending on how the Mac is configured.


If the Mac asks for a recovery key, Apple notes that the key does not contain the letters I or S, or the numbers 1 or 0. 


Apple also distinguishes a FileVault recovery key, which is a 24-character alphanumeric code, from an Apple Account recovery key. (Apple Support)


Since this Mac is running macOS Tahoe 26.5, there is another option worth checking. 


Apple says a FileVault recovery key might be available in the Passwords app on another iPhone, iPad, or Mac signed in to the same Apple Account. 


Search Passwords for “recovery key” and see whether an entry for this Mac appears. (Apple Support)


If the recovery key continues to be rejected, Apple also provides additional password-reset procedures through macOS Recovery, including “Forgot all passwords?” and, where applicable, the resetpassword utility. (Apple Support)


If none of those options works, Apple provides erasing the Mac as a further option. 


However, erasing it permanently removes the user accounts and data stored on the Mac.


So, based on the information provided, I would try Apple's Recovery procedures before proceeding with an erase.


Apple Support: If you forgot your Mac login password

TheLittles
User level: Level 10 (211,627 points)

Oct 3, 2026 6:54 PM in response to Cathy D.

"MacBook Verification Key not working.: i forgot the password for my 2025 MacBook Air. Went to reset the password and was told to enter verification key, a new experience for me. After looking up how to find the key, I followed instructions and my computer did not like the key…. I double and triple checked I had the correct key, same thing. Went to my local computer repair and he had no luck — for $150 I was told I need to reset my computer. Has anyone else had this experience?"

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Resetting your Mac Login Key:

A. Go Here: If you Forgot your Mac Login Password - Apple Support


B. Use Terminal:

  1. Boot: in Recovery Mode (Mac with Apple silicon)
  2. Select: Utilities menu
  3. Select: Terminal
  4. Use this command:
resetpassword

5. Try logging in, once more.

Originally posted at discussions.apple.com/thread/256369846