How Do I Delete a Mac User Account?

Comments: 6 Responses to “How Do I Delete a Mac User Account?”

Gary Rosenzweig

3 years ago

First, you don't need to delete the account to clear out most of that data. You can just log into that account, then put the files in the trash and empty the trash. Assuming the files are what is taking up the space, then it should reduce the account to minimum size. But if it is an account that was actually used for a while, it make have things stored in the user Library folder. You didn't mention anything about what this account was or what it was used for, so it is hard for me to guess.

But to delete the account it is just a matter of going to System Preferences, Users & Groups. Then authenticate (click the padlock). Then select the account and click the - button at the bottom.

Brian

3 years ago

thanks Gary for your assistance (once again)

Bill Hanrahan

3 years ago

Gary, I have a similar situation where I need to delete a second Admin account which I had created for test purposes. Unfortunately, I had mistakenly assigned my own iCloud ID to this second account and the mew User account is greyed out, preventing me from deleting it. (I ended up with my "prime" Admin account and a second Admin account sharing the same ID.). Is it possible to completely delete the second account or can I somehow restore the original config with Time Machine?

Gary Rosenzweig

3 years ago

Bill: Why not just log into the unwanted account, then log out of iCloud in there? I don't see why you couldn't just delete the account either way (unless it is the one you are logged into). But if you say the problem is it is "assigned my own iCloud ID" then just log out.

Bill Hanrahan

3 years ago

I tried logging out, but the unwanted User ID is still greyed out andI can't delete it. Not a big deal, just a minor annoyance.

Bill Hanrahan

3 years ago

Gary, please ignore my last comment. I tried deleting the unwanted User account again and it worked! Thank you for your help!