How to: Reset the default keychains on your Mac


Instructions

  1. Open the Keychain Access app. The best way to do this is by using Spotlight.

    Spotlight search showing "keychain access" being searched for, and the "Keychain Access" app being selected in the search results

  2. If prompted to manage your passwords in the Passwords app, click Open Keychain Access.

    Keychain Access prompt to manage passwords in the new Passwords app, with the "Open Keychain Access" button selected

  3. If prompted for authentication, use Touch ID or type your user account password.

    Touch ID prompt for opening Keychain Access

    Password prompt for opening Keychain Access, with an example password typed and the "OK button selected

  4. In your Mac's menu bar, click the Keychain Access menu. Then, choose Settings.

    Mac menu bar with the Keychain Access menu open and "Settings" selected

  5. Click Reset Default Keychains.

    Keychain Access settings window with the "Reset Default Keychains" button selected

  6. If prompted for authentication, use Touch ID or type your user account password.

    Touch ID authentication prompt to reset default keychains

    Password prompt to reset default keychains, with an example password typed and the "OK" button selected

  7. Type your user account password and click OK.

    Prompt to enter user account password to create a new keychain, with the "OK" button selected

  8. Click OK.

    Confirmation message that a new empty login keychain was created, with the "OK" button selected

  9. Close the settings window.

    The close button (red circle) in the top-left corner of the settings window

Outcome

A new, blank login keychain is created.

For additional details, please visit Apple's support article "If you need to update your keychain password on Mac".