How to permanently delete a Facebook account you no longer use
To delete a second Facebook account, go to Settings & Privacy > Settings > Deactivation and Deletion, choose "Delete Account," and confirm your choice. Facebook will permanently remove the account and all its data after 30 days, though the deletion can be reversed if you log back in during that window. After 30 days, the account cannot be recovered.
The process is the same whether you're deleting a backup account, a test account, or one you created years ago and forgot about. You must have access to the email or phone number linked to that account to complete the deletion, and you should download your photos and messages first if you want to keep them.
Key Takeaways
- Facebook gives you 30 days to change your mind after you request deletion — logging back in during that time cancels the deletion.
- You need access to the email address or phone number on the account to confirm the deletion request.
- Downloading your information before deletion is optional but recommended if you want to keep photos, videos, or messages.
- Deactivation is temporary and reversible at any time, while deletion is permanent after 30 days.
- If you cannot remember the password, you can reset it using the email or phone number associated with the account.
The difference between deactivation and deletion
Facebook offers two separate options: deactivation and deletion. Deactivation hides your profile, posts, and messages from other users, but Facebook keeps all your data and can reactivate the account if you log back in. Deletion removes the account permanently after a 30-day waiting period.
Choose deactivation if you might want to use the account again later or if you're just taking a break. Choose deletion if you want the account gone for good and do not plan to return. Most people deleting a second account choose deletion because they no longer need it.
Steps to delete your account on desktop
Open Facebook on a computer and log into the account you want to delete. Click the downward arrow in the top right corner and select "Settings & Privacy," then click "Settings."
On the left sidebar, scroll down and click "Deactivation and Deletion." Select the "Delete Account" option (not "Deactivate Account"), then click "Continue to Account Deletion." Facebook will ask you to re-enter your password for security. Type it in and click "Continue."
On the next screen, Facebook explains what will happen: your profile will be removed, you will be untagged from photos and posts, and messages you sent will remain but will not show your name. Click "Delete Account" to confirm. You will see a message saying your account is scheduled for deletion.
Steps to delete your account on mobile
Open the Facebook app and tap the three horizontal lines (menu) in the bottom right corner. Scroll down and tap "Settings & Privacy," then tap "Settings."
Scroll down to "Account Ownership and Control" and tap "Deactivation and Deletion." Tap "Delete Account," then tap "Continue to Account Deletion." Enter your password when prompted and tap "Continue."
Review the information about what happens when you delete, then tap "Delete Account" to confirm. The app will show a confirmation message that your account is scheduled for deletion.
What happens during the 30-day waiting period
After you request deletion, Facebook keeps your account in a deleted state for 30 days. During this time, other people cannot see your profile or messages, but your data still exists on Facebook's servers. If you log back into the account at any point during these 30 days, the deletion will be cancelled and your account will return to normal.
After 30 days pass, Facebook permanently removes all your information from its servers. The account cannot be recovered after this point, even if you have the password. This is why the 30-day window exists — to prevent accidental permanent loss if you change your mind.
How to download your information before deleting
If you want to keep copies of your photos, videos, or messages before deletion, download your information first. Go to Settings & Privacy > Settings > Your Information and Connections > Download Your Information. Choose the date range and data types you want (photos, videos, posts, messages, etc.), then click "Request a Download."
Facebook will prepare a file of your data, which usually takes a few hours to a few days depending on how much information you have. You will receive an email when it is ready. Download the file to your computer before you delete the account, because you will not be able to access it after deletion is complete.
If you forgot the password to the account
If you cannot remember the password to the second account you want to delete, you can reset it. On the Facebook login page, click "Forgotten Password?" Enter the email address or phone number linked to that account. Facebook will send a reset link to that email or a code to that phone number.
Follow the link or enter the code to create a new password. Once you have reset the password, log into the account and follow the deletion steps above. You do not need to remember the old password — only the email address or phone number matters.
What to do if you cannot access the email or phone number
If you no longer have access to the email address or phone number on the account, you cannot delete it through the normal process. Instead, go to the Facebook Help Center and search for "I can't access my account." Click on the option that matches your situation, and Facebook will guide you through account recovery steps.
If you cannot recover access, you can report the account to Facebook as compromised or no longer yours. Facebook may review your request and take action, though this process is slower than self-deletion. Provide as much information as you can about when you created the account and why you no longer have access to it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I delete someone else's Facebook account?
No. You can only delete an account you have the password for. If someone else created the account and you do not have access to it, you cannot delete it yourself. You can report the account to Facebook if you believe it violates their rules or is impersonating you.
Will deleting my account remove me from group chats and messages?
Your messages will remain in other people's inboxes, but your name will not appear next to them. You will be removed from group chats, and other members will see that you left. Your profile will no longer be visible to anyone.
What if I delete my account but want to use the same email address for a new account later?
You can reuse the email address after the 30-day deletion period is complete. During the 30-day window, the email is still tied to the deleted account. After 30 days, you can create a new Facebook account with that same email address.
Does deleting my Facebook account delete my Instagram account too?
No. Facebook and Instagram are separate accounts. Deleting your Facebook account does not affect Instagram. If you want to delete your Instagram account, you must do that separately through Instagram's settings.
Can I delete my account if I have an outstanding balance or unpaid ads?
Yes, you can still delete your account. However, if you have unpaid charges for ads or other services, Facebook may pursue payment even after deletion. Settle any outstanding balances before you delete to avoid future issues.