Where to find the name change option

Instagram lets you change the name that appears on your profile in two places: your username (the handle people use to find you, like @yourname) and your display name (the full name shown above your posts). You change each one in different locations, and Instagram treats them differently — your username is harder to change frequently, while your display name can shift as often as you want.

To change your display name, open Instagram and tap your profile icon in the bottom right. Tap "Edit profile" near the top. The first field shows your current display name. Tap it, clear the text, type your new name, and tap "Done" in the top right. The change takes effect immediately.

Your username is the handle people search for and mention. Changing it is more restricted. Tap your profile icon, then "Edit profile," and look for the username field (it appears below your display name and starts with @). Tap it to edit. Instagram allows you to change your username once every 14 days. If you changed it recently, you will see a message saying when you can change it again.

Key Takeaways

  • Your display name (the full name above your posts) can be changed anytime by going to Edit Profile and tapping the name field.
  • Your username (the @handle) can only be changed once every 14 days, and Instagram will tell you when you are may be able to access again.
  • Changing your name does not affect your followers, messages, or posts — everything stays connected to your account.
  • If your new username is already taken, Instagram will tell you immediately and you will need to choose a different one.

What happens to your followers and messages when you change your name

Changing either your display name or username does not disconnect your account from anything. Your followers stay your followers, your messages remain in your inbox, and all your posts stay on your profile. People who follow you will see your new name the next time they visit your profile or see your posts in their feed.

If someone has a direct link to your old username (like a saved bookmark or a link in another website), that link will redirect to your new username automatically. However, if you change your username and then someone else takes your old username, that old link will point to their account instead. For this reason, if you are changing your username because you want to rebrand, consider whether you want to keep the old one or let it go.

Rules for choosing a new username

Instagram usernames must be between 1 and 30 characters long and can contain letters, numbers, periods, and underscores. Spaces and most special characters are not allowed. Usernames are not case-sensitive — @JohnSmith and @johnsmith are the same account.

If the username you want is already taken, Instagram will show you that message when you try to save it. You cannot reserve a username or put your name on a waiting list. Your only option is to choose a different username or try again later if the account becomes inactive (though Instagram does not publish how long an account must be inactive before its username becomes available).

Your display name has fewer restrictions. You can use spaces, capital letters, accents, emoji, and most special characters. Instagram does not prevent you from using a display name that is already in use by someone else — many people can have the same display name.

Changing your name on the Instagram app versus the website

You can change your display name on both the Instagram mobile app and the Instagram website. The steps are the same: go to your profile, tap or click "Edit profile," and change the name field.

The mobile app is usually faster because the keyboard appears automatically. On the website, you may need to click the field twice to activate it. Both methods save your change immediately, and you will see the update reflected everywhere within seconds.

If you cannot find the edit profile button

If you are looking at someone else's profile, you will not see an "Edit profile" button — you will see a "Follow" button instead. Make sure you are on your own profile by tapping the profile icon in the bottom right corner of the app.

If you are on your own profile but do not see "Edit profile," your account may have restrictions. Business accounts and creator accounts have the same name-change process as personal accounts, so the button should appear. If it does not, try logging out and logging back in, or uninstalling and reinstalling the app. If the problem persists, contact Instagram through the app's help center.

Why Instagram limits how often you can change your username

Instagram restricts username changes to once every 14 days to prevent spam and account takeovers. If someone gains unauthorized access to your account, they cannot immediately change your username to lock you out permanently. The 14-day window gives you time to notice the change and regain control.

The 14-day rule applies to each username change individually. If you change your username on a Monday, you can change it again the following Monday. If you try to change it before 14 days have passed, Instagram will show you the exact date and time when you become may be able to access again.

Changing your name if your account was hacked

If someone else changed your username without your permission, you can change it back immediately — the 14-day rule does not apply to recovering a hacked account. First, regain access to your account by resetting your password through the Instagram login page. Once you are back in, go to your profile, tap "Edit profile," and change your username back.

If you cannot regain access to your account, use Instagram's account recovery form. You will need to provide information that proves you own the account, such as a photo of yourself holding your ID next to a piece of paper with your username written on it. Instagram reviews these requests and can help you regain control.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my username to something I used before?

Yes. If you used a username in the past and changed it, you can change back to that old username as long as no one else has claimed it. However, you still have to wait 14 days from your last username change before you can make a new change.

What if I change my name and then want to change it back?

You can change it back, but you have to wait 14 days from the date you made the first change. The 14-day timer starts when you change your username, not when you change it back. If you changed your username on Monday, you cannot change it again until the following Monday, even if you want to revert to your old name.

Does changing my name affect my Instagram business account or creator account?

No. Business and creator accounts follow the same name-change rules as personal accounts. You can change your display name anytime and your username once every 14 days. Changing your name does not affect your insights, ads, or any business features.

Will people be notified when I change my name?

Instagram does not send notifications when you change your display name or username. People will see your new name the next time they visit your profile or see your posts, but they will not receive a notification about the change.