Deleting Your Origin (EA) Account: A Comprehensive Guide
Yes, you can delete your Origin account, which is now known as your EA Account. However, it’s not a decision to be taken lightly. Deleting your account means losing access to all games purchased through it, any associated downloadable content (DLC), and your game progress. This guide will walk you through the process, considerations, and answer frequently asked questions to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding the Implications of Deleting Your EA Account
Before we dive into the “how,” let’s address the “why” and the consequences. Deleting your EA Account is permanent. There’s no turning back. Here’s what you need to know:
- Loss of Games: You will permanently lose access to all digital games purchased through your EA Account. This includes games obtained through Origin, EA Play subscriptions, or bundles.
- Loss of DLC and In-Game Items: All downloadable content, expansions, and in-game purchases tied to your account will be irretrievable.
- Loss of Game Progress: Saved game progress, achievements, and other data linked to your EA Account will be deleted. While some games may offer cloud saves linked to other services (like Steam), this is not guaranteed.
- Loss of EA Play Subscription Benefits: If you have an active EA Play subscription, it will be canceled, and you will lose access to the EA Play library of games and other subscriber benefits.
- Impact on Connected Accounts: If your EA Account is linked to other gaming platforms or services (e.g., Steam, PlayStation Network, Xbox Live), deleting your account may impact your ability to access certain features or games on those platforms. Review the specific platform’s policies for more information.
- Reversibility: Account deletion is generally irreversible. Once the process is complete, you cannot recover your account or any associated data.
How to Delete Your EA Account
If, after considering the implications, you’re determined to proceed, follow these steps to delete your EA Account:
- Back Up Your Data (If Possible): While EA doesn’t offer a straightforward way to download your entire game library, check if individual games offer options to export save data or other relevant information. Some games may allow you to link your progress to external accounts.
- Contact EA Support: The official way to delete your EA account is by contacting EA Support. You can do this through the EA Help website (help.ea.com).
- Choose a Contact Method: On the EA Help website, select the game or service related to your account. Then, choose a contact method, such as live chat or email. Live chat usually offers a faster response.
- Verify Your Identity: EA Support will ask you to verify your identity to ensure that you are the account holder. Be prepared to provide information such as your email address, date of birth, security questions answers, and any purchase history associated with the account.
- Request Account Deletion: Clearly state that you want to permanently delete your EA Account. The support agent will explain the implications of deleting your account and confirm that you understand the consequences.
- Confirmation and Waiting Period: After confirming your request, EA may institute a waiting period before the account is actually deleted. This is to provide you with a final opportunity to reconsider your decision. The waiting period can vary.
- Confirmation of Deletion: Once the waiting period has passed and the account deletion is complete, you should receive a confirmation email. Keep this email for your records.
FAQs About Deleting Your Origin/EA Account
Here are some frequently asked questions about deleting your Origin (EA) Account:
Will I lose my games if I delete my EA Account?
Yes, you will permanently lose access to all games associated with the deleted account.
Can I unlink my EA Account from other platforms instead of deleting it?
Yes, unlinking your EA Account from platforms like Steam, PlayStation Network, or Xbox Live is an alternative. This will allow you to keep your EA Account but prevent it from interacting with those other services. Contact EA Support to request unlinking.
What happens to my EA Play subscription if I delete my account?
Your EA Play subscription will be cancelled, and you will lose access to its benefits. You will not be refunded for any remaining subscription time.
How long does it take for my EA Account to be deleted?
The deletion process can take some time. EA usually requires a waiting period after your initial request, which can vary. Contact EA Support for the most accurate timeframe.
Can I reactivate my EA Account after deleting it?
In most cases, no. Account deletion is typically permanent, and you cannot recover the account or its contents.
What happens to my personal data if I delete my EA Account?
EA’s privacy policy outlines how they handle personal data. When you delete your account, EA will delete or anonymize your personal information, subject to legal and regulatory requirements. Review EA’s privacy policy for detailed information.
Is deleting my EA Account the same as uninstalling the EA app?
No. Uninstalling the EA app only removes the software from your computer. Your account remains active unless you specifically request its deletion.
Can I transfer my games to another EA Account before deleting mine?
No, EA does not allow game transfers between accounts.
What happens if I have an active EA Play subscription when I request account deletion?
Your subscription will be cancelled, and you will lose any remaining subscription benefits.
Will deleting my EA Account affect my access to games on Steam or other platforms?
It depends on whether your EA Account is linked to those platforms. If it is, deleting your EA Account may impact your ability to access certain features or games. Check with the other platforms for their specific policies.
What if I change my mind after requesting account deletion?
If you are still within the waiting period, contact EA Support immediately to cancel your deletion request. Once the deletion is complete, it cannot be reversed.
Can I create a new EA Account after deleting my old one?
Yes, you can create a new EA Account after deleting your old one, but you will not be able to recover any games or data from the deleted account.
What information do I need to provide to EA Support to delete my account?
Be prepared to provide your email address, date of birth, security questions answers, and any purchase history associated with the account.
Will deleting my EA Account affect my progress in online multiplayer games?
Yes, your progress in online multiplayer games is linked to your EA Account. Deleting your account will result in the loss of your progress.
Does EA delete inactive accounts automatically?
According to older Terms of Service, EA could potentially delete accounts inactive for 24 months or more. However, this is not consistently enforced, and it’s best to contact EA Support directly to ensure the account is closed properly. The Games Learning Society can provide more information on responsible gaming and data management. You can visit their website here: GamesLearningSociety.org.
Conclusion
Deleting your Origin (EA) Account is a significant decision with irreversible consequences. Carefully consider the implications, back up your data if possible, and follow the proper procedures to ensure a smooth account deletion process. Contact EA Support if you have any questions or concerns.