Your Instagram name is an essential part of your online identity. Whether you use Instagram for personal connections, as an influencer, or for business branding, the right name can make a big difference. But what happens when you want to change it? Maybe you’re rebranding, evolving your personal style, or just need a fresh start.
If you’re wondering how to change Instagram name, the process is simple, but there are a few things you should consider before making the switch. From username availability to the impact on your followers, a name change can have lasting effects. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about changing your Instagram name, including step-by-step instructions, important considerations, and expert tips to make the transition seamless.
Instagram Username vs. Display Name: What’s the Difference?
Before diving into the steps of changing your Instagram name, it’s important to understand the difference between your username and display name. Many people confuse the two, but they serve different purposes.
Your username (@handle) is the unique identifier for your Instagram account. It appears in your profile URL and is how people tag and mention you. Since usernames must be unique, you may have to get creative if your preferred name is already taken.
Your display name, on the other hand, is the name that appears on your profile, just below your profile picture. Unlike your username, it doesn’t have to be unique, so many users can have the same display name. This is a great option if you want to refresh your brand or personal identity without worrying about username availability.
How to Change Instagram Name in a Few Simple Steps
Now that you know the difference between a username and a display name, let’s go through the actual process of changing your Instagram name. Whether you’re updating your display name or your username, the steps are straightforward.
How to Change Your Instagram Name or Username:
You need to follow these steps to change your Instagram username:
- Open the Instagram app and go to your profile picture and tap it.
- Tap on Edit Profile under your bio.
- In the Name field, enter your new display name (if changing it).
- In the Username field, enter your new Instagram handle (if updating it).
- Click on Done (or the checkmark) to save your changes.
- If the username is already taken by another instagram user, It will prompt you to choose another variation.
If you’re changing your username, make sure to update any links, business cards, or promotional materials where your Instagram handle appears.
Things to Consider Before Changing Your Instagram Name
Changing your Instagram name may seem like a small tweak, but it can have a significant impact. Here are some important things to keep in mind before making the change.
Username Availability: Your ideal username might already be taken, so be prepared with a few backup options. If your desired handle is unavailable, try adding a period, underscore, or an extra letter.
Impact on Searchability: If you’re an influencer or a business, changing your Instagram name could make it harder for followers to find you. A sudden name change without notice may also confuse your audience.
Mentions and Tags: When you change your username, previous mentions and tags won’t automatically update. If people try to tag your old username, they might not find your account.
Verification Badge Risks: If you’re a verified user, changing your username could cause Instagram to remove your verification badge. Contact Instagram support if you’re concerned about this.
Temporary Lock: Instagram sometimes restricts frequent name changes. If you switch your name too often, you might need to wait before changing it again.
How Often Can You Change Your Instagram Name?
Instagram allows users to change their display name and username, but there are some limitations.
- Display Name: You can change this as often as you want, but excessive changes may trigger Instagram’s spam filters.
- Username: You can change it at any time, but if you try to revert to a previous username, it may no longer be available.
For businesses and influencers, it’s best to avoid frequent name changes to maintain brand consistency and audience recognition.
Choosing the Best Instagram Name for Personal and Business Accounts
Choosing the right Instagram name is crucial, especially if you’re using it for branding or personal growth. A well-chosen user name can enhance your online presence and make it easier for others to find and remember you. If you’re selecting a name for a personal account, keeping it simple and easy to spell will make it more user-friendly.
Avoid excessive numbers or special characters that can make it difficult to search. Your name should reflect your personality or niche, whether you’re a travel enthusiast, fitness expert, or artist.
For business accounts, consistency across all platforms is key. Your Instagram name should match your brand’s name as closely as possible to maintain recognition. If your exact business name is taken, add a keyword related to your industry or location to differentiate it. Avoid long or complex names that might be hard for users to recall or type in. By selecting a strong Instagram name, you create a more recognizable and professional identity that helps you stand out.
Common Issues When Changing Your Instagram Name & How to Fix Them
Changing your Instagram name isn’t always a seamless process. Some users run into problems when trying to update their usernames. One of the most common issues is that the desired username is already taken. If this happens, try adding a period, underscore, or an extra letter to create a unique variation.
Another issue is that Instagram may temporarily prevent you from changing your name if you’ve already made multiple updates in a short period. If you get an error message or email stating that you can’t change your name, you may need to wait 14 days before attempting again.
If you can’t find your profile in search results after changing your name, don’t panic. Instagram’s search algorithm may take some time to update. Engaging with your followers, posting content, and using relevant hashtags can help improve your visibility again.
For those with a verified account, be aware that changing your username may result in the loss of your verification badge. If this happens, you can reach out to Instagram support to request re-verification, but there’s no guarantee that it will be restored.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to change Instagram name, you can confidently update your profile without any hassle. Whether you’re making a minor tweak or completely rebranding, planning ahead will help you avoid common issues and ensure a smooth transition.
If you’re updating your Instagram name for business purposes, remember to update your username across all other platforms and notify your audience about the change. This will help maintain engagement, prevent confusion, and keep your brand identity strong. Making a name change is a small step, but when done correctly, it can have a big impact on your online presence.
Looking for more ways to optimize your Instagram presence? Check out these guides on Insta Navigation
Sofia Lindstrom
A Swedish marine biologist researching deep-sea ecosystems. She has participated in multiple Arctic expeditions and advocates for ocean conservation. When not on research trips, she enjoys kayaking and photography.
