How do I turn off Ask to buy 2024?

Hi there! I'm Susan, and I've been navigating the world of Apple devices and family sharing for over a decade. I've helped countless parents set up and manage their family accounts, ensuring their kids have safe and controlled access to the digital world. "Ask to Buy" has been a game-changer, giving parents peace of mind and kids a chance to learn responsible digital spending.

Let's talk about "Ask to Buy" and how you can adjust the settings to best suit your family's needs.

Understanding "Ask to Buy"

Before we dive into turning it off, let's clarify what "Ask to Buy" does. When enabled for a child's account within Family Sharing, it acts as a safety net for digital purchases. Here's how it works:

* Request System: If your child wants to download a free or paid app, make an in-app purchase, or buy media content (like music or movies), they have to send a request to the designated Family Organizer.
* Organizer Approval: The Organizer (usually a parent) receives a notification on their Apple device. They can review the request, see the item's details (including price), and choose to approve or decline it.
* Controlled Spending: This feature gives parents the final say on all purchases, preventing accidental spending sprees or downloads of inappropriate content.

**Reasons to Turn Off "Ask to Buy"**

While "Ask to Buy" is generally a great tool, there are situations where you might consider turning it off for a child:

* Age and Maturity: As your child gets older and demonstrates responsible digital habits, you might feel confident enough to give them more purchasing autonomy.
* Educational Needs: If your child needs specific apps for school or educational projects, constant requests might become cumbersome.
* Gift Cards and Apple Cash: When a child's account has a balance from gift cards or Apple Cash, they can't use it to make purchases until "Ask to Buy" is turned off.

Turning Off "Ask to Buy"

Here's a detailed guide on how to turn off "Ask to Buy" for a child's Apple ID:

Important Note: You'll need to use the Organizer's Apple device or have access to their Apple ID and password to make these changes.


1. Open Settings: On the Organizer's iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch, locate and open the "Settings" app (it's the gray icon with gears).


2. Go to Your Name/Apple ID: At the very top of the Settings menu, tap on your name or the Apple ID that is set as the Family Organizer.


3. Select "Family Sharing": In the Apple ID settings, you'll find "Family Sharing" listed. Tap on it to access your family group's settings.


4. Choose Your Child's Name: You'll see a list of family members associated with your Family Sharing plan. Select the name of the child for whom you want to disable "Ask to Buy."


5. Manage "Ask to Buy": You'll see a section specifically related to "Ask to Buy."

* **To completely turn off "Ask to Buy":** There should be a toggle switch next to "Ask to Buy." Toggle it to the OFF position (it will turn white).
* To adjust the age limit: Some users may see an age limit option instead of a toggle. You can choose an age (like 18) at which "Ask to Buy" will be automatically disabled for your child.

Important Considerations

* Communication is Key: Before turning off "Ask to Buy," have a conversation with your child about responsible app downloads, in-app purchases, and setting spending limits.
* Alternative Controls: Consider using Apple's other parental control features like "Screen Time" to set daily limits for app usage, restrict certain app categories, or prevent purchases entirely.
* Review Purchases: Even with "Ask to Buy" disabled, it's good practice to periodically review your child's purchase history in your Apple account settings.

Remember, fostering open communication and digital responsibility is crucial. By striking a balance between freedom and guidance, you can create a positive and safe digital environment for your child. Feel free to reach out if you have any more questions or need further assistance!

Choose another approverOn your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch, go to Settings > [your name] > Family Sharing, tap your family member, then tap Parent/Guardian. ... On your Mac, choose Apple menu > System Preferences > iCloud, select your family member, then select Parent/Guardian.