Apple App Store · Guideline 5.1.1(v) — Account Deletion

How to Fix App Store Account Deletion Rejection

Implement an in-app account-deletion path, remove unnecessary friction, and explain legitimate retention after an Apple account-deletion rejection.

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What this rejection usually means

If an app supports account creation, Apple generally expects users to be able to initiate deletion from inside the app. Deactivation, logout, a support-only email, or a hidden web process may not satisfy the requirement.

Likely rejection signals

  • Users can create accounts but cannot start deletion in the app
  • The only deletion route is contacting support
  • The flow merely deactivates or freezes the account
  • Retention and deletion timing are not explained

Recovery plan

  1. Add a clearly labeled deletion action in an intuitive account or privacy location.
  2. Require only proportionate confirmation needed to prevent accidental or fraudulent deletion.
  3. Delete associated personal data unless a legitimate retention obligation applies.
  4. Explain retained categories, reason, and duration in the privacy policy and confirmation flow.
  5. Test the path with a production-like account and provide exact reviewer navigation.

Evidence to prepare

  • Screen recording of account creation through deletion
  • Backend confirmation that associated data is removed
  • Updated privacy-policy retention section
  • Reviewer test account and navigation steps

Appeal or fix first?

APPEAL / CLARIFY

Clarify when the feature already exists in the submitted build but the reviewer missed it, using exact taps and screenshots.

FIX BEFORE RESUBMITTING

Fix first when deletion requires support, only deactivates access, or is absent from the app.

Reviewer response framework

Your response should be factual, short, and limited to the submitted build. Cover these points:

  1. State where deletion is initiated in the app.
  2. Describe confirmation and processing time.
  3. Explain any legally required retention.
  4. Provide a test path that does not use a real customer's account.

Frequently asked questions

Is account deactivation enough?

No. A temporary freeze or deactivation is different from deletion when the account and associated data remain.

Can deletion require reauthentication?

Reasonable identity confirmation can protect users, but the process should not create unnecessary friction or force a support conversation.

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Source: Apple App Review Guidelines — 5.1.1(v). Platform policies change. Verify the official rule before submitting. Resubmit AI provides technical and editorial decision support, not an approval guarantee or legal advice.