The two names you can change on TikTok, and why they matter
TikTok lets you change two different names, and they do different things. Your display name is what appears above your videos and on your profile — you can change this whenever you want, as many times as you want, with no waiting period. Your username (the handle that starts with @) is harder to change: you get one free change every 30 days, and after that TikTok charges a small fee.
Most people want to change their display name because they created an account with a placeholder, got married or divorced, or simply want something that feels more like them now. The display name is the easier fix. If you want to change your actual handle — the @username people use to find and tag you — that takes a bit more planning because of the 30-day rule.
Key Takeaways
- Your display name can be changed instantly and as often as you want from your profile settings, with no restrictions.
- Your username (@handle) can be changed once every 30 days for free; after that, TikTok charges a fee for additional changes.
- Changing your username does not affect your followers, videos, or likes — they stay attached to your account.
- If you change your username, the old one becomes available for someone else to claim after a short period.
How to change your display name right now
Open TikTok and tap the profile icon in the bottom right corner. Tap "Edit profile" near the top. You will see a field labeled "Name" — this is your display name. Tap it, delete what is there, type your new name, and tap "Save" at the top right. That is it. The change takes effect immediately.
Your display name can be up to 30 characters long and can include spaces, numbers, and most symbols. You do not need to wait for anything to process, and you can change it again whenever you want. If you change your mind in the next few seconds, you can tap "Edit profile" again and change it back.
How to change your username (the @handle)
From your profile, tap "Edit profile" again. This time, look for the field labeled "Username" — it will show your current @handle. Tap it to edit. Type your new username. TikTok will tell you right away if the name is already taken or if it breaks their rules (usernames cannot have certain characters or be too long). If it is available, tap "Save."
The first time you change your username, or if it has been more than 30 days since your last change, there is no charge. If you want to change it again within 30 days, TikTok will ask you to pay. The fee varies by region and changes over time, but it is usually a few dollars. You can see the exact price before you confirm the purchase.
What happens to your old username
When you change your username, your old one does not stay reserved for you. After a waiting period (usually a few weeks, though TikTok does not publish the exact timeline), someone else can claim it. This matters if you have built a following and other accounts or websites link to your old @handle — those links will eventually lead to a different person's profile.
Your followers, videos, likes, and messages do not disappear when you change your username. Everything stays on your account; only the handle changes. If you are worried about people losing track of you, you can mention the change in a video or in your bio before you make it.
When you cannot change your username
If you created your account very recently (within the first few days), TikTok may not let you change your username yet. The platform also blocks usernames that are too similar to existing ones, contain certain words, or use characters outside the standard alphabet and numbers. If you see an error message, try a different name.
If you are locked out of your account or cannot access your profile settings, you may need to update your password or verify your identity first. Go to your account settings and look for "Security" or "Login and security" to check whether TikTok is asking you to confirm anything.
Changing your name on a business or creator account
If you have a TikTok Creator Fund account or a business account, the process is the same — display name and username both change from "Edit profile." However, if you have a verified account (indicated by a blue checkmark), changing your username may affect how the verification appears. TikTok usually keeps the verification attached to your account, but it can take a few hours to update across the platform.
If you have linked your TikTok to other platforms (like Instagram or YouTube), changing your TikTok username does not automatically change those other accounts. You would need to update those separately if you want them to match.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my username more than once a month without paying?
No. You get one free change every 30 days. If you want to change it again before 30 days have passed, TikTok charges a fee. The fee is usually a few dollars, and you can see the exact amount before you pay.
Will my followers see my old username if I change it?
No. Once you change your username, it updates everywhere on your profile and in your followers' feeds. Old links to your @handle will eventually stop working, but your followers will still be able to find you by your new username.
What if someone takes my old username after I change it?
There is not much you can do once someone else claims it. This is why it is a good idea to mention your username change in a video or update your bio before you make the switch, so your followers know where to find you.
Can I change my display name without changing my username?
Yes. Display name and username are separate. You can change your display name as many times as you want without touching your username at all.
Does changing my username delete my videos or followers?
No. Your videos, followers, likes, and messages all stay on your account. Only the @handle changes. Everything else is tied to your account, not to the specific username.