If you can't sign in to your iMessage account or FaceTime on your Mac

If you can't sign in to your iMessage account or FaceTime, one of these solutions may help.

When you first set up Messages on your Mac, you're asked to sign in to your iMessage account with your Apple ID. Messages then attempts to sign in automatically every time you open it. Signing in to FaceTime is similar. If either app doesn't sign in successfully, try these solutions. 

Check your Internet connection

Make sure your Mac is connected to the Internet. You should be able to load web pages or receive emails, for example.

Check for a service outage

Check the Apple System Status page for a temporary outage affecting iMessage or FaceTime.

Check your Date & Time settings

  • Choose Apple menu () > System Preferences, then click Date & Time. Make sure the date, time and time zone are correct.
  • If the ”Set date and time automatically” tickbox is selected, deselect it and select it again. (If the tickbox is dimmed, click the lock  and enter your administrator password.)

Make sure your software is up to date

Find out how to update your Mac software. Software updates can improve the stability, compatibility and security of your Mac, and may also resolve the issue. 

Check your Apple ID

To make sure your Apple ID and password are correct, go to the Apple ID account page and sign in with the same Apple ID that you're using with Messages and FaceTime. If that works, open the app and take these steps:

  • Messages: choose Messages > Preferences, then click Accounts. Select your iMessage account, then click Sign Out. Now sign in again with the same Apple ID you used on the Apple ID account page.
  • FaceTime: choose FaceTime > Preferences. In the Settings tab, click Sign Out. Then sign in again with the same Apple ID you used on the Apple ID account page.

Reset NVRAM

In case the issue is related to any of the settings stored in NVRAM, reset NVRAM on your Mac.

Check for third-party software

If you have installed firewall, security, VPN or other third-party networking software, make sure the software isn't blocking any of the network ports used by iMessage and FaceTime. If necessary, disable the software and then try using your iMessage account or FaceTime again.

Learn more

Find out what to do if you have other FaceTime issues.


FaceTime is not available in all countries or regions.

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