General Questions
What is the purpose of transitioning to Church Accounts?
This change will modernize authentication systems, increase identity security, and simplify transferring between church schools. The transition will unify authentication across CES institutions, simplify the user experience for accessing multiple CES resources, and improve identity management and support processes.
What are the benefits of transitioning to Church Accounts?
Benefits include single sign-on capabilities across CES applications, improved account recovery options, and streamlined support processes for identity-related issues.
Timeline and Process
What is the timeline for this project?
Early account linking will begin mid-November and continues for a period until February 11, 2025. Beginning February 12, 2025, all BYU-Idaho users may begin to login with their Church Accounts.
When will I be able to log in with my Church Account?
BYU-Idaho will change to Church Account login on Wednesday, February 12, 2025. Users will not be able to log in using their Church Account until that date, even if they complete the linking process earlier.
How do I link my BYU-Idaho and Church Accounts?
Starting mid-November, users can link their BYU-Idaho and Church Accounts together through the account linking process. This is a staged process, starting with select IT employees to avoid overwhelming the IT Service Desk. Users will be notified when they are able to link their accounts. The account linking page can be found at: web.byui.edu/linking-page
Account Management
What if I don't have a Church Account?
If you don't have an Church Account, you'll need to create one. Go to account.churchofjesuschrist.org/register to create an account using your personal email. Once created, use your new Church Account to connect to your BYU-Idaho account.
What if I forget my Church Account password?
Go to churchofjesuschrist.org to recover your information. You will need access to your personal email to receive the recovery email from Church Accounts. You can also use self-service options like your phone, email, or Membership Record Number (MRN). If self-service recovery fails, you can call the BYU-I IT Service Desk.
What are the key differences between Church Accounts and BYU-I Accounts?
Key differences include the authentication provider, password recovery process, and integration with CES services. For a detailed comparison, refer to the table in the "Key Features" section of the project overview document.
Pathway
Does this also impact BYU-Pathway Worldwide (sometimes referred to just "Pathway") students?
The answer is somewhat, yes. Pathway students that need to access their transcripts may need to link their BYUI and Church accounts when they attempt to login to our systems. Otherwise no, Pathway students are decoupled from BYU-Idaho systems and thus aren't required to link their accounts.
How does this impact instructors that teach BYU-Pathway Worldwide courses?
All Pathway instructors are employed by BYU-Idaho to teach these courses. While they may be registered as "Pathway" instructors, they're officially BYU-Idaho employees. As a result, these instructors DO have BYU-Idaho accounts and WILL need to link their BYUI & Church accounts together. Just as normal BYUI employees, these instructors are hired in Workday, provided BYUI Outlook accounts (name@byui.edu), and have the normal access BYUI employees have to many other systems.
Troubleshooting
I think I skipped the Duo 2FA linking step. What should I do?
If you skipped the Duo 2FA linking step, please call the IT Service Desk, they will be able to help you connect your accounts.
Who can I contact for help with the account linking process?
The IT Service Desk will be available to support users with questions or concerns about the account linking process. You can also refer to the "Common Issue: Incomplete Duo 2FA Linking" article for troubleshooting tips. After full rollout, the IT Service Desk will handle all account issues, including recovery, for transitioned accounts.
Need Help?
Important: The BYU-Idaho IT Service Desk is fully equipped to help you with both your BYU-Idaho account and Church Account issues. Don't hesitate to contact us for any login-related problems!
Contact the IT Service Desk by:
- Call/Text: (208) 496-9009
- WhatsApp: (208) 496-9009
- Email: itservicedesk@byui.edu
- Web Chat: Click the chat bubble in the bottom right corner of this page
- In-Person: Visit us at the Manwaring Center, Room 114
Remember: There's no need to contact Church support - our IT Service Desk team is here to help you with all account-related issues!