Instagram, a hugely popular app for sharing photos and videos, lets you connect and express yourself creatively. Changing your name on Instagram is a simple yet powerful way to give your profile a fresh look—whether you’re rebranding, making personal updates, or just trying something new. Since your name is a big part of your online identity, it’s important to keep it updated. In this easy-to-follow guide, we’ll show you exactly how to change your Instagram name and keep your profile looking fresh and relevant!
Why You Might Want to Change Your Name on Instagram
There are various reasons why people decide to update their Instagram name:
- Rebranding or personal growth: If you’re evolving your personal or business brand, a name change can help reflect that.
- Switching to a business name: Businesses often shift their Instagram name to align with branding strategies.
- Reflecting a new style or online identity: Sometimes, your Instagram name no longer suits your vibe, and updating it can better represent who you are.
- Correcting typos or errors: Accidentally type your name wrong? No worries, you can easily correct it.
Things to Know Before Changing Your Instagram Name
Before making the change, there are a few important things to consider:
- Instagram username vs. display name: Your username is unique and appears in your profile URL, while your display name is more flexible and visible on your profile.
- Limitations and restrictions: Instagram doesn’t allow frequent username changes, so be sure you want to commit to the new one.
- Impact on followers and profile searchability: A name change could affect how easily people can find your profile.
- Username availability issues: Keep in mind that usernames are unique, so your desired name might already be taken.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Change Your Name on Instagram
Changing Your Name via Instagram Mobile App (iOS/Android)
Follow these simple steps to update your name using the Instagram app:
- Open the Instagram app and go to your profile.
- Tap on the Edit Profile button.
- In the Name or Username fields, type your new name.
- Tap Done or Save to confirm the changes.
Changing Your Name via Instagram Web Browser
If you prefer using the web browser, here’s how:
- Open Instagram in your web browser and log into your account.
- Click on your profile icon in the top right and select Edit Profile.
- Enter your new name or username in the appropriate fields.
- Click Submit to save the changes.
Troubleshooting: Common Issues When Changing Your Instagram Name
While changing your Instagram name is usually straightforward, there are a few common issues users might face:
- Name not available: If your desired name is already taken, try adding numbers, underscores, or slight variations to find an available option.
- Too frequent name changes: Instagram limits how often you can change your username, so if you’ve updated it recently, you may need to wait before changing it again.
- Instagram error messages and how to fix them: If you encounter any error messages, try refreshing the app or browser, ensure your internet connection is stable, and double-check for any policy violations (e.g., inappropriate content in your new name).
Can You Change Your Instagram Name Multiple Times?
Instagram allows users to change both their username and display name, but there are rules:
- Instagram’s policies on name changes: While you can change your display name as often as you’d like, changing your username comes with restrictions. Instagram requires a waiting period between username changes, typically 14 days.
- Waiting time between changes: If you’ve already changed your username recently, you’ll have to wait for the 14-day period before making another change. This helps prevent spam and account misuse.
Conclusion
Updating your Instagram name is a quick and easy way to keep your profile fresh and relevant. Whether you’re changing it for rebranding, fixing a mistake, or just wanting a new look, the steps in this guide make it simple to do. Keeping your name updated is important so your followers can always find you. If you know someone who needs help changing their Instagram name, feel free to share this guide with them!
FAQ’s
Can I change my name back to the original name?
Yes, as long as the original name is still available, you can change it back.
Is there a fee for changing names on Instagram?
No, it’s completely free to change your name on Instagram.
How long does it take for the new name to show up?
Your new name usually shows up right away, but it might take a few minutes for everyone to see it.
Will changing my name affect my followers?
No, your followers won’t be affected, and they’ll still be connected to your account.
Can I change both my display name and username?
Yes, you can change both, but keep in mind that your username must be available, and there are limits on how often you can change it.
