By CashForTechs · Updated October 29, 2026
Which MacBooks these steps are for
MacBook Air and MacBook Pro with an M1 chip or newer, on macOS Monterey or later. Those are the MacBooks we buy. Not sure which one you have? See how to find your MacBook’s model, year and chip.
Before you start
- Your Mac login password and your Apple Account password.
- The charger, plugged in.
- Wi-Fi. The MacBook needs the internet to activate after the reset.
1. Back up your files
Use Time Machine with an external drive, or make sure the files you want to keep are in iCloud Drive.
2. Erase All Content and Settings
- Choose Apple menu → System Settings, click General, scroll down and click Transfer or Reset, then click Erase All Content and Settings.
- Enter your Mac login password, then your Apple Account password.
- Click Erase All Content & Settings to confirm. If it offers to sign you back in to your Apple Account, ignore it.
- The MacBook erases and restarts. If it asks, connect to Wi-Fi so it can activate.
On macOS Monterey, choose Apple menu → System Preferences, then choose Erase All Content and Settings from the System Preferences menu at the top of the screen.
3. Stop at the setup screen and turn it off
When the setup screen appears, don’t set it up. Press and hold the power button (the Touch ID button) until the MacBook turns off. That’s how to bring it to the meetup.
Don’t see Erase All Content and Settings?
Your Mac may need a macOS update, or it may be an older model. Text us your model and we’ll walk you through it.
Ready to sell your MacBook?
We buy MacBook Air and MacBook Pro, M1 and up. Battery issue? We still consider most MacBooks.
Text or call (916) 269-5021 with your model and condition, get an offer based on live market data, and we’ll call or text to set a time. Meet locally in Sacramento and get same-day cash. No inspection price drops: the offer we quote is the offer you’re paid when the device is as described.
