Warning
Create a Time Machine backup before major updates, disk operations, or security changes on macOS.
What you will achieve
Hand off a Mac without your data or iCloud lock attached.
1) Sign out services first
- Sign out of iCloud and disable Find My.
- Sign out of iMessage and other accounts.
2) Erase Mac securely
- Ventura/Sonoma: use System Settings → General → Transfer or Reset → Erase All Content and Settings.
- Older versions: erase startup disk in Recovery Disk Utility then reinstall macOS.
3) Confirm Activation Lock removed
Check Apple ID device list and remove the Mac before handover.