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Setting up a parent's new phone: a printable checklist

You're handing Mom or Dad a new phone. This checklist covers what to set up before you leave, so they don't get stuck later. Print it, tick things off, and leave it with them.

Checked against official help pages on October 22, 2026.

Quick answers

What should I set up first on a parent's new phone?

Their own account and passcode, bigger text, their favorite contacts, and emergency info. Then scam filters and a password plan.

Should I use simple mode?

If they only call, text and look at photos, yes. On iPhone that's Assistive Access. On Samsung Galaxy phones it's Easy mode in Settings > Display.

Where do I write down the passwords?

Use a password manager if they'll use one. If not, keep a written list in a safe place at home, never in the phone's notes or taped to the phone.

Before you leave the store (or open the box)

☐ The phone is on their account (Apple Account or Google account), not yours.
☐ You've both written down the phone passcode somewhere safe.
☐ It's charged, and they know which cable and plug charge it.

Make it easy to read and use

☐ Bigger text. iPhone: in Settings, search for Text Size. Android: open Settings and search for Font size, then move the slider.
☐ Simple mode, if it helps. iPhone: Assistive Access. Samsung: Settings > Display > Easy mode. See Make Android simple.
☐ Ringer volume turned up, and a ringtone they can hear.

People and help

☐ Family and doctors saved as contacts, with photos if you can.
☐ Emergency info filled in. iPhone: open the Health app, tap their picture, then Medical ID, and turn on Show When Locked so first responders can see it.
☐ They've practiced one call and one video call with you. See FaceTime for grandparents.

Scam protection

☐ Spam filtering turned on. The FTC notes your phone or carrier may filter unknown senders.
☐ You've agreed a family code word for emergencies. See the grandchild scam.
☐ The scam texts list is printed and on the fridge.

Passwords

☐ One strong password or passphrase for their main email account.
☐ A plan for the rest: a password manager or a written list kept somewhere safe. See Passwords made simple.

Where this comes from

We checked these official pages on October 22, 2026:

Menus can change after updates. If a step doesn't match your screen, tell us and we'll fix it.