Can I Change My Instagram Name? If you’re asking this question, you’re not alone. Whether you’re rebranding your business, personalizing your profile, or simply tired of your current handle, knowing how and when to change your Instagram name is essential in today’s digital landscape. For many entrepreneurs, influencers, or casual users, your Instagram name is your digital signature—so making the right changes matters.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know—**from how to change your Instagram name, the difference between your username and display name, to things to consider before you make the switch**. Let’s get started!
What’s in a Name? Understanding Your Instagram Identity
Before answering “can I change my Instagram name,” it’s important to understand that Instagram distinguishes between two types of names:
- Username: This is your unique Instagram handle (e.g., @YourUsername). It appears at the top of your profile and in your URL.
- Display Name: This appears in your bio, does NOT need to be unique, and can include special characters, emojis, or your full name.
Both can be changed—but there are different rules and implications. Let’s break it down further.
Can I Change My Instagram Name? The Quick Answer
Yes, you can change both your Instagram username and display name. The platform is designed to be flexible, allowing users to rebrand or customize their identity. However, timing, availability, and other restrictions can impact whether your new name sticks or whether it causes unintended complications.
Why People Change Their Instagram Name
- Brand refresh or rebranding
- Changing from a personal to a professional profile (or vice versa)
- Including more SEO-optimized or keyword-rich terms
- Fixing typos or outdated references
- Desire to remain anonymous or private
Regardless of the reason, let’s explore the process step-by-step.
How to Change Your Instagram Name: Step-by-Step Guide
Changing your Instagram name is a straightforward process, whether you’re using the mobile app or the desktop version.
Changing via Mobile App (iOS/Android)
- Open your Instagram app and go to your profile.
- Tap on “Edit Profile”.
- Tap on either “Username” or “Name”.
- Enter your new desired name.
- Tap “Done” or the checkmark to save changes.
Changing via Desktop
- Log into Instagram.com.
- Click on your profile icon at the top right and go to “Profile.”
- Click on “Edit Profile.”
- Adjust your Username or Name as needed.
- Click “Submit” to save your changes.
Important Note: When changing your Username, Instagram will check whether the name is already taken. If so, you’ll need to choose a unique variation.
Things to Consider Before Changing Your Instagram Name
While it’s technically easy to change your name, it’s smart to pause and consider a few key points:
1. Username Availability
If your desired username is taken, even if the account is inactive, you won’t be able to claim it instantly. Instagram requires unique usernames for each account.
2. Branding Consistency
Changing your username can impact discoverability, especially if your handle is linked to other platforms or printed materials. You’ll need to update all domains where it’s mentioned:
- Business cards
- Website bios
- Social media links across platforms
- Email signatures
3. Username Retention
Instagram may temporarily lock your old username for 14 days. This means you may not be able to revert immediately if you change your mind.
4. Verification Status
If your profile is verified, changing your username could jeopardize your verification badge—Instagram may remove it and require re-verification.
Can Business Accounts Change Their Instagram Name?
Absolutely. Whether you’re managing a personal or business account, you can easily change your Instagram name. However, businesses should be particularly careful to avoid disrupting their digital branding.
Tips for Businesses Changing Their Instagram Name:
- Verify branding consistency across all platforms
- Notify followers about your name change
- Update your Instagram bio for clarity about the change
- Redirect traffic from your old handle if possible
Pro Tip: Use this opportunity to optimize your display name with keywords relevant to your niche to aid discoverability.
What Happens After You Change Your Instagram Name?
Once you hit “submit” and your name is successfully changed, here’s what you can expect:
- Your profile URL will change accordingly (e.g., instagram.com/newusername)
- All old mentions (@oldusername) will not automatically redirect
- Users may initially have a hard time finding you unless notified
- Changes will reflect instantly on your profile
To minimize confusion:
- Make a post or story announcing the change
- Add your old username in the bio for a few weeks
- Engage with your community to reaffirm your identity (especially after a rebrand)
How Often Can I Change My Instagram Name?
Instagram allows you to change your name and username as many times as you’d like. However, frequent changes can raise red flags or confuse your audience. Exercise good judgment and stick with names that reflect a long-term vision.
What If My Instagram Name Is Taken?
Seeing the dreaded “username not available” message? Try these strategies:
- Incorporate underscores, dots, or special characters
- Try slightly different variations
- Add your location or niche (e.g., @JohnSmithNYC)
- Use initials or acronyms
If a desirable username is taken but the account is inactive, there’s currently no guaranteed method to claim it. Continue checking occasionally, or consider securing a domain with the name via URL for overall personal branding efforts.
Is It Better to Change Display Name or Username?
Each has its purpose, so it depends on your objective:
- Change Display Name if you want to maintain your IG handle but brand your name differently
- Change Username if you’re rebranding or want to improve searchability and uniqueness
For many businesses and creators, display name changes are less disruptive and can still assist with visibility improvements.
SEO Tips When Changing Your Instagram Display Name
Your display name is searchable within Instagram and can help improve how people find your profile.
To make the most of it:
- Include industry keywords (e.g., Fitness Coach, Digital Marketer)
- Use emojis to attract attention 🔥💼
- Keep it short and memorable
By aligning your display name with your niche, you increase the likelihood of discovery by your target audience.
Common Myths About Changing Your Instagram Name
Let’s bust a few myths:
- Myth: You can’t change your name more than once.
- Fact: You can change it multiple times, but frequent changes aren’t recommended.
- Myth: Changing your username deletes your history.
- Fact: All posts, DMs, and data remain intact unless you delete your account.
- Myth: No one will find my new profile.