macOS App Store Error Code 1015: How to Fix It
Easy 15-45 minutes Medium Severity
Verified July 2026
- Error Code
- 1015
- Brand
- macOS
- Product Type
- operating_system
- Severity
- Medium
- DIY Difficulty
- Easy
- Estimated Fix Time
- 15-45 minutes
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Tools You'll Need
- Mac computer running macOS
- Active internet connection
- Apple ID credentials
- Access to Finder and Keychain Access (built-in macOS apps)
How to Fix Error Code 1015
-
Check Apple's System Status Page
-
Verify Your Internet Connection
-
Correct Your Mac's Date and Time Settings
-
Sign Out of Apple ID and Sign Back In
-
Sign Out of Apple ID System-Wide and Sign Back In
Signing out of your Apple ID will temporarily disable iCloud services such as iCloud Drive, iMessage, and FaceTime until you sign back in. Make sure any important unsaved documents are saved locally before proceeding. -
Delete App Store Cache Files
Only delete cache folders for the App Store application. Do not delete other system cache folders unless you are certain of their purpose. -
Reset the Keychain Entry for the App Store
Only delete Keychain entries related to the App Store or Apple ID. Deleting unrelated entries can disrupt other saved passwords or certificates. -
Update macOS to the Latest Version
Back up your Mac using Time Machine or another backup method before installing a macOS update, in case any issue arises during the update process. -
Create a New Admin User Account to Test
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When to Call a Professional
Contact Apple Support (https://support.apple.com) if you have completed all steps above and still cannot sign into the App Store. You should also reach out to Apple if your Apple ID account appears locked, if you suspect unauthorized access to your account, or if macOS itself appears corrupted and cannot be repaired through standard Software Update. Apple Support can also assist with Apple ID account recovery if you are locked out. If you suspect a deeper macOS system file corruption, an Apple Authorized Service Provider or Apple Store Genius Bar can run diagnostics on your Mac.Frequently Asked Questions
What does macOS App Store error code 1015 mean?
Error code 1015 means the Mac App Store was unable to complete the Apple ID sign-in process. This is typically caused by network connectivity problems, incorrect date and time settings, a corrupted Keychain entry, or an issue on Apple's authentication servers.
Why does App Store keep showing error 1015 after I enter my password?
If the error appears right after entering your password, the most likely causes are a bad Keychain entry storing an old or invalid token, an Apple ID that is temporarily locked due to too many failed attempts, or a conflict with your system date and time. Try clearing the App Store Keychain entries and verifying your date and time settings are set to automatic.
Will I lose my purchased apps if I sign out of my Apple ID to fix this error?
No. Your purchased apps are permanently tied to your Apple ID account and are not deleted when you sign out. Once you sign back in with the same Apple ID, all your previous purchases will still be accessible in the App Store under your purchase history.
Can a VPN cause macOS App Store error code 1015?
Yes. Some VPN configurations can interfere with Apple's authentication servers and cause sign-in errors including code 1015. Try disabling your VPN temporarily and then attempting to sign in to the App Store. If the error disappears, the VPN or its server settings are the likely cause.
Does error code 1015 affect the whole Mac or just the App Store?
Error code 1015 is specific to the App Store sign-in process and does not affect other Mac functions. However, if the underlying cause is a broader Apple ID authentication failure, you may also notice issues with iCloud, iMessage, or FaceTime. Fixing the root cause using the steps above should resolve all related sign-in problems.