How to Change Your Instagram Username in 2025

Last Updated on May 4, 2025 by Himanshu Rawat

Your Instagram username is the name that shows up after the “@” symbol—like @jessica_arts or @coffeelover22. It’s how people find you, tag you in posts, or mention you in comments. Basically, it’s your identity on Instagram.

Sometimes, you might want to change it. Maybe you’ve outgrown your old username, started a new business, or just want something that sounds better. Whatever the reason, changing your Instagram username is super simple—and you can do it in just a few steps.

In this blog, I’ll show you exactly how to change your Instagram username, whether you’re using the app or logging in from a computer. Let’s get started!

What is an Instagram Handle (Username)?

Your Instagram handle is the name that comes after the @ symbol—like @emma.designs or @travelwithjay. It’s what people use to find you, tag you in posts, or mention you in comments and stories.

No two people can have the same handle, so it has to be unique. It’s also part of the link to your Instagram profile. For example, if your handle is @emmacreates, your profile link will be instagram.com/emmacreates.

In short, your handle is like your Instagram identity. It’s how others recognize and connect with you on the app.

What is the Instagram Display Name?

Your Instagram display name is the name that appears at the top of your profile—just above your bio. It’s not the same as your username, and it doesn’t have to be unique. That means other people can have the same display name as you.

You can use your real name, your business name, or even add emojis if you want. For example, if your username is @theplantlady, your display name could be something like 🌿 Sarah’s Plant Shop.

People can also find you by searching your display name, so it’s a good idea to use something that clearly shows who you are or what your account is about.

Difference Between Instagram Username and Display Name

It’s easy to get confused between the username and the display name, but they’re actually pretty different:

• Username (Handle): This is your unique name on Instagram. It starts with “@” and shows up in your profile link—like @mariaartstudio. No one else can have the same one.
• Display Name: This is the name that appears on your profile, just above your bio. It can be anything—your real name, business name, or even something fun with emojis. More than one person can have the same display name.

Think of it like this:
Your username is your official tag on Instagram, and your display name is more like your public name or nickname.

Can You Change Your Instagram Username?

Yes, you can change your Instagram username anytime! If you want a new name or just something easier to remember, it’s really simple to do.

When you try to change your username, Instagram will check if anyone else is already using it. If someone is, you’ll need to pick a different one.

If you don’t like the new username, you can change it back—but only if no one else has taken it. So, it’s a good idea to think carefully before making the change!

How to Change Instagram Username (Step-by-Step on Mobile)

Changing your Instagram username on your phone is super easy. Just follow these steps:

• Open the Instagram app.

• Tap your profile icon (it’s in the bottom right corner).

• Tap Edit Profile.

• In the Username section, erase your old username and type in your new one.
• Once you’re happy with it, tap Done at the top right.

That’s all! Your username will update right away.

How to Change Instagram Username on Desktop (via Accounts Center)

If you’re on your computer, you can change your Instagram username too. Here’s how:

• Go to instagram.com and log in to your account.

• Click on your profile picture in the top right corner.
• then, Click Edit Profile.

• At the top left, click See More in the Accounts Center.
• Select the profile you’d like to update.

• Click the profile information (name, username, or profile picture) you want to change.
• Make your desired changes to the username.
• Click Done to save the changes.

That’s it! Your username will be updated instantly.

Note: For the latest info or if you need help from Instagram directly, you can check Instagram’s official Help Center on usernames.

What Happens After You Change Your Username?

After you change your Instagram username, here’s what will happen:

• Your profile link will change. So if your old username was @oldname, and you change it to @newname, your new link will be instagram.com/newname.
• Old tags and mentions won’t work. If someone tagged you using your old username, it won’t link to your profile anymore.
• Your followers won’t be affected. They will still follow you, and nothing will change for them.
• If you want your old username back, someone else can take it. So, once you change it, someone else might grab your old username.

That’s what you need to know after you change your username!

Tips Before Changing Your Username

Before you change your Instagram username, think about these things:

1. Pick a name that fits you. Choose something easy to remember and that shows who you are or what you do.
2. Check if the name is free. Instagram will tell you if someone else is using the name you want.
3. Tell your followers. If you have lots of followers, it’s a good idea to let them know about the change so they don’t get confused.
4. Remember your links. If you’ve shared your username anywhere else, those links will change, so keep that in mind.
5. Make sure you like it. Once you change your username, it might be hard to get the old one back if someone else takes it, so make sure you’re happy with the new name.

Note: Want more helpful Instagram marketing tips to go with your new username? Check out our full guide!

Wrapping Up

Changing your Instagram username is easy, but it’s a good idea to think about it first. Your username helps people find you, so pick something that works for you. Remember, when you change it, your profile link will also change, and old tags or mentions won’t work anymore.

Take your time to choose a username you like and let your followers know if you need to. Once you’re happy with it, go ahead and make the change!