How to Change Your Instagram Username (Handle) in 2026

Quick Answer

To change your Instagram username, go to your profile → Edit profile → Username, enter your new handle, and tap Done (or the checkmark). Your old username is held for 14 days in case you want to switch back. Your followers, posts, and all content remain unchanged — only your @handle and profile URL change.

Username vs. Name: What's the Difference?

Instagram has two separate identity fields:

Username (handle): Your unique @identifier (e.g., @janesmith). This is used in your profile URL (instagram.com/janesmith), for mentions, and for login. Must be unique across all of Instagram.
Name (display name): The name shown on your profile (e.g., "Jane Smith"). Doesn't need to be unique. Can include emojis and special characters.

Changing your username changes your profile URL and how people tag you. Changing your name only changes the display text.

Step-by-Step: Change Your Username

On iPhone or Android

Open Instagram and tap your profile picture in the bottom-right corner.
Tap Edit profile below your bio.
Tap the Username field.
Delete your current username and type the new one.
If the username is available, a green checkmark appears.
Tap Done (iOS) or the checkmark (Android) to save.

On the Web (instagram.com)

Click your profile picture → Profile.
Click Edit profile.
Change the Username field.
Click Submit (or the checkmark).

What Happens to Your Old Username

When you change your username:

Your old username is held for 14 days. During this period, you can switch back to it without anyone else being able to claim it.
After 14 days, the old username is released and anyone can register it.
Your profile URL changes immediately (instagram.com/newusername).
Old links to your profile (instagram.com/oldusername) will stop working — they show "Sorry, this page isn't available."
Your followers, posts, comments, and all content remain unchanged.
People who have saved your old profile link or tagged you with your old @handle will need to update.

Tips for Choosing a Good Instagram Username

Keep it short and memorable. Shorter usernames are easier to type, share, and remember.
Use your real name or brand name when possible — it builds trust and recognition.
Avoid numbers and underscores if you can — @janesmith is cleaner than @jane_smith_123.
Check availability across platforms — if you're building a brand, try to secure the same handle on TikTok, Twitter/X, and YouTube.
Avoid trending or temporary references — your username should still feel right in two years.

Common Questions

Can I change my username back to my old one?

Yes, within 14 days. Instagram holds your old username for two weeks after you change it. After that, it's released and may be claimed by someone else.

Will my followers be notified when I change my username?

No. Instagram does not send a notification about username changes. Your followers will continue to follow you — only your @handle changes.

Does changing my username affect my verified badge?

If you have a traditional verification badge, changing your username may require re-verification. With Meta Verified, your badge is tied to your identity (government ID), so a username change should not affect it — but significant identity changes may require re-review.

Can two accounts have the same username?

No. Instagram usernames are globally unique. If someone else has the username you want, you cannot use it until they change or delete their account.

How often can I change my username?

Instagram doesn't publish a specific limit, but changing your username too frequently may trigger a temporary restriction. As a general guideline, avoid changing it more than a few times per month.

How to Deactivate Your Instagram Account — take a break from Instagram
How to Get Verified on Instagram — blue badge guide
How to Secure Your Instagram Account — protect your account
Instagram Account Guide — all account management guides