Your Instagram username is a key part of your identity on the platform. Whether it’s a fun nickname, your business name, or something uniquely creative, your username is how people find and connect with you. But what happens when it’s time to change your Instagram username? Maybe you’re rebranding, outgrowing an old username, or just in the mood for something fresh. Whatever your reason, changing your Instagram username is easier than you might think!
In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about updating your Instagram username. From step-by-step instructions for both mobile and desktop to tips for choosing the perfect handle, we’ve got you covered.
We’ll also address common questions like, “Why can’t I change my username?” and “What happened to my old one?” Whether you’re a casual user or a social media influencer, this guide will ensure you make the transition smoothly and without any hiccups.
What Is an Instagram Username?
An Instagram username, also known as your handle, is the unique name you use to identify yourself on Instagram. It’s the name that appears at the top of your profile and is used by others to tag or mention you in posts, comments, or direct messages. Think of it as your online signature or digital identity within the Instagram community.
Your username plays a crucial role in helping others find and connect with you. Unlike your display name, which can be changed freely and doesn’t have to be unique, your username must be one-of-a-kind. For example:
- Username: @travelwithsara
- Display Name: Sara’s Adventures
Instagram usernames have a few essential characteristics:
- Uniqueness: No two users can have the same username. If your preferred username is already taken, you’ll need to tweak it with numbers, symbols, or variations.
- Length and Format: Your username must be 30 characters or fewer and can include letters, numbers, underscores (_), and periods (.). However, it cannot contain spaces or special characters like “&” or “#.”
- Visibility: Your username is public, meaning anyone who searches for you on Instagram can see it.
Choosing a good username is essential because it’s part of your personal or brand identity. Whether you’re a business aiming for professionalism, an influencer wanting to stand out, or an individual looking to express yourself, your username is your first impression on Instagram.
Why Is Changing Your Instagram Username Important?
Changing your Instagram username is more than just a cosmetic update; it’s an opportunity to redefine your online presence and stay relevant. Here’s why this decision holds significant importance:
Rebranding or Personal Growth
Life evolves, and so does your identity or brand. Whether you’re starting a new business, shifting your content focus, or simply outgrowing your old handle, changing your username allows you to reflect those changes and present a fresh face to your audience.
Improved Recognition
A username that is easy to remember, professional, or aligned with your niche can make you more recognizable to your audience. If your old username was complicated or irrelevant, updating it can help boost your discoverability and credibility.
Consistency Across Platforms
Many users manage multiple social media accounts for personal or professional purposes. Changing your Instagram username to match your handles on other platforms helps maintain a consistent brand identity, making it easier for people to find you everywhere.
Enhanced Branding for Businesses and Influencers
For businesses and influencers, usernames are critical to branding. A name that reflects your niche, values, or products can help build trust and make your account more appealing to your target audience.
Reclaiming Control Over Your Online Image
Sometimes, usernames are chosen in haste or during a different phase of life. Changing your username gives you the chance to align your online persona with who you are today or what your brand represents.
Boosting Professionalism
If you’ve shifted from using Instagram casually to using it professionally, a well-thought-out username can signal that change. For example, switching from @cooldude123 to @JohnDoeFitness immediately elevates your profile’s professionalism.
Avoiding Misinterpretation
A username that’s unclear, outdated, or easily misinterpreted can hurt your online image. Choosing a clear and relevant username helps your audience understand who you are and what you stand for at a glance.
Staying Relevant
Trends, interests, and industries change over time. Updating your username ensures your profile remains relevant to your audience and resonates with current trends in your niche or personal life.
First Impressions Matter
Your username is often the first thing people notice about your profile. A well-crafted and purposeful username makes a strong first impression, encouraging others to engage with your content or follow your account.
Things to Consider Before Changing Your Username
Changing your Instagram username might seem simple, but it’s a decision that can have a lasting impact, mainly if you use Instagram for personal branding or business. Here are some essential factors to keep in mind before making the switch:
Username Availability
Your new username must be unique. Instagram doesn’t allow duplicate usernames, so you’ll need to come up with a handle that no one else is using. If your first choice is unavailable, try creative variations by adding numbers, underscores, or abbreviations.
Impact on Branding
If you’re a business or influencer, your username is a core part of your brand. Ensure that your new username aligns with your brand identity and remains recognizable to your followers. Sudden changes can confuse your audience or affect your brand’s credibility.
Searchability
When you change your username, it may temporarily affect how easily people can find you. Your followers won’t be directly notified, and any search engine results or social media links using your old username might become invalid.
Tagging and Mentions
Changing your username means your old username will no longer work in existing tags or mentions. If someone has tagged or mentioned you in older posts, those links won’t update automatically. Inform your followers and collaborators about the change to avoid confusion.
Frequency of Changes
While Instagram allows username changes, frequent changes might flag your account as suspicious and lead to restrictions. It’s a good idea to choose a username you’re confident about to avoid the need for frequent updates.
Claiming Your Old Username
Once you change your username, your old one becomes available for others to claim. If you want to revert to it later, it may no longer be an option.
Testing for Consistency
If you’re active on multiple social platforms, it’s helpful to keep your usernames consistent. This makes it easier for your audience to find you across different channels.
Technical and Community Guidelines
Instagram usernames must follow the platform’s guidelines:
- They can’t exceed 30 characters.
- They can only include letters, numbers, periods, and underscores.
- They must not impersonate someone else or violate Instagram’s rules.
Considering these factors will help you make an informed decision and ensure that your new username transition is smooth and hassle-free.

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Instagram Username
Changing your Instagram username is a straightforward process, whether you’re using the mobile app or accessing Instagram on your desktop. Follow these step-by-step instructions to update your username:
On the Mobile App
- Open the Instagram App
Launch the Instagram app on your smartphone. Make sure you’re logged into the account you want to update. - Go to Your Profile
- Tap the profile icon at the bottom-right corner of the screen.
- This will take you to your profile page.
- Tap on “Edit Profile”
- Below your profile picture and bio, you’ll see the “Edit Profile” button. Tap on it.
- Locate the Username Field
- In the Edit Profile section, find the “Username” field.
- Tap on it to delete your current username and type in your desired new username.
- Check Availability
- Instagram will automatically check if the username you entered is available.
- If it’s taken, you’ll see a message prompting you to try a different name.
- Save Your Changes
- Once you’ve entered a valid username, tap the checkmark (✓) on Android or “Done” on iOS to save your changes.
- Verify Your Profile
- Return to your profile page to ensure the new username appears correctly.

On the Desktop (Instagram Website)
- Log into Instagram
- Open your preferred web browser and go to Instagram’s website.
- Log into your account.
- Access Your Profile
- Click on your profile picture in the top-right corner.
- Select “Profile” from the dropdown menu.
- Click on “Edit Profile.”
- On your profile page, locate and click the “Edit Profile” button near the top.
- Edit Your Username
- In the Username field, delete the existing name and enter your new username.
- Check for Availability
- If the username is unavailable, you’ll need to try another variation until you find one that works.
- Save Your Changes
- Scroll down and click the “Submit” button to save your changes.
- Double-Check Your Profile
- Visit your profile to confirm the new username has been updated.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Changing Your Instagram Username
Advantages | Disadvantages |
---|---|
Allows rebranding to better reflect your current identity or business. | Old mentions and tags may no longer link to your profile. |
Improves searchability with a more relevant and easy-to-remember name. | Followers may have difficulty finding your new username initially. |
Helps maintain consistency across different social media platforms. | Links to your old username on websites or social media bios will break. |
Freshens up your profile, giving it a more professional or updated look. | Frequent username changes can confuse followers and harm brand trust. |
Enables alignment with current trends or a specific niche. | Your old username becomes available for others to claim. |
Helps eliminate usernames that might seem outdated or irrelevant. | Some usernames may already be taken, limiting your options. |
Common FAQs About Changing Your Instagram Username
Can I change my Instagram username anytime?
Yes, you can change your Instagram username whenever you like. However, keep in mind that frequent changes may confuse your followers or cause technical issues, so it’s best to choose a username you’re happy with long-term.
Will my followers be notified when I change my username?
No, Instagram does not notify your followers when you change your username. They will only notice the change when they visit your profile or try to tag you. However, if you have a large following, it’s a good idea to inform them about the change.
Will changing my username affect my Instagram account’s visibility?
Changing your username can temporarily affect your visibility. If people search for your old username, they may not find your profile right away. To avoid this, inform your followers through posts or stories and keep your new username easy to remember.
Will my old posts and photos still be linked to my new username?
Yes, your old posts, photos, and comments will still be linked to your account even after you change your username. However, any old tags or mentions using your old username will no longer work.
Can I change my Instagram username to something that has already been taken?
No, Instagram does not allow duplicate usernames. If the username you want is already taken, you’ll have to make slight variations, such as adding numbers or underscores or using a different spelling.
Is there a limit to how many times I can change my Instagram username?
While Instagram doesn’t have an official limit, changing your username too frequently can confuse your followers and potentially flag your account. It’s best to only change it when necessary.
Will changing my username affect my Instagram account’s followers?
No, changing your username won’t automatically cause you to lose followers. However, if your new username is very different, some followers may have trouble finding you. Make sure to update your followers about the change to keep your engagement high.
Can I change my Instagram username back to the old one?
Yes, you can change your Instagram username back to the old one if it is still available. If someone else claims your old username in the meantime, you won’t be able to return to it.
Will my Instagram links or website links break if I change my username?
Yes, any links that use your old username will no longer work after you change it. This includes links in your social media bios, email signatures, and external websites. Make sure to update these links after the change.
How do I choose a good Instagram username?
Choose a username that reflects your personality, business, or brand. Make sure it’s easy to remember, spell, and search for. Avoid using too many numbers or complicated symbols. It’s also a good idea to keep it consistent across all your social media platforms.
Conclusion
Changing your Instagram username is a simple yet powerful way to refresh your profile and make it more aligned with your identity or brand. Whether you’re rebranding, improving recognition, or keeping things consistent across platforms, a username change can have a positive impact. Just remember to consider the potential effects on your visibility and follower engagement, and choose a username that’s easy to remember and represents you well. With the right approach, your new username will help you stand out and make a lasting impression!