How to Change Your Name and Handle on Instagram

Did you know that over 2 billion people use Instagram every month, and many change their names or handles to reflect personal changes or business updates? Whether you’re rebranding, starting fresh, or simply correcting a typo, knowing how to modify your Instagram name and handle is important.

Changing your name or username (also called a handle) on Instagram is easy, but it’s important to understand the differences between the two and how each change can affect your account. This guide breaks down everything you need to know in simple terms.

What’s the Difference Between an Instagram Name and Handle?

Before you make any changes, it’s important to know the difference between your Instagram name and Instagram handle:

• Instagram Name: This is your display name. It shows up on your profile and is often your real name or brand name. You can use spaces and emojis here.
  
  
• Instagram Handle (Username): This is your @username (like @amjtechsolutions). It’s how people tag or search for you. It must be unique, and it can’t contain spaces or special characters (other than periods and underscores).
  
  

Why You Might Want to Change Your Instagram Name or Handle

There are many reasons someone might want to change their Instagram name or handle. Here are a few:

• You’ve changed your real name or business name.
  
  
• You want to create a more professional or creative brand.
  
  
• Your current name doesn’t match your other social media accounts.
  
  
• You made a typo or want something easier to remember.
  
  
• You want to grow your audience with a catchy or keyword-friendly username.
  
  

Things to Know Before You Change

Changing your Instagram username can impact your visibility. Here's what to keep in mind:

• Your followers won’t be notified, but they’ll see your new name.
  
  
• All your old tags and mentions may no longer link to your profile.
  
  
• If someone takes your old handle, you may not be able to get it back.
  
  
• Usernames must be unique, while names can be repeated.
  
  
• If your account is very active, Instagram may review the change before it goes live.
  
  

How to Change Your Instagram Name or Handle on Mobile

Most people use Instagram on their phones, so let’s start with the mobile version.

Steps to Modify Instagram Name or Handle:

1. Open the Instagram app on your iPhone or Android device.
   
   
2. Go to your profile by tapping your profile picture in the bottom right.
   
   
3. Tap the “Edit Profile” button.
   
   
4. To change your name, type a new one in the Name field.
   
   
5. To change your handle, type a new one in the Username field.
   
   
6. Tap “Done” (top right on iPhone, checkmark on Android).
   
   

You’re all set! If your new handle is available, the change will be instant.

How to Change Your Instagram Name or Handle on Desktop

If you prefer using a computer, you can still make the changes easily.

Steps for Desktop Users:

1. Visit www.instagram.com and log in.
   
   
2. Click your profile picture in the top right and select Profile.
   
   
3. Click “Edit Profile” next to your username.
   
   
4. Change your Name and/or Username fields.
   
   
5. Click Submit to save changes.
   
   

It’s just as simple as doing it on your phone!

Best Practices for Choosing a New Instagram Handle

If you’re thinking about a username change, here are some quick tips to make it better:

• Keep it short and easy to remember.
  
  
• Avoid numbers or random characters unless they’re part of your brand.
  
  
• Use a consistent handle across your other social media platforms.
  
  
• Add a keyword related to your brand or niche (for example, @jessmakeup or @veganchefmark).
  
  
• Try to keep your old Instagram followers in the loop by posting a quick update.
  
  

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Changing too often: This can confuse your audience and make it harder for people to find you.
   
   
2. Using special characters in your handle: Remember, no spaces or emojis in the handle.
   
   
3. Choosing: A name that doesn’t reflect your brand or personality.
   
   
4. Not checking availability on other platforms – consistency is key if you’re using social media for business.
   
   

What Happens After You Change Your Handle?

Once you change your handle:

• Your new @username will show up everywhere instantly.
  
  
• Old mentions or tags might no longer link to your profile.
  
  
• Your profile URL changes too (for example, from instagram.com/oldhandle to instagram.com/newhandle).
  
  
• If you have links on your website or business cards, update them.
  
  

How to Let People Know About Your Name Change

To avoid confusion, especially for businesses or creators:

• Share a Instagram post or story saying you changed your username.
  
  
• Update your bio with a short note like “formerly @oldhandle.”
  
  
• Inform your followers in an email or newsletter if you have one.
  
  
• Update other platforms like Facebook, Twitter, or TikTok to match.
  

Can You Change Your Instagram Name and Handle Multiple Times?

Yes, but with limits:

• You can change your Instagram name as often as you like.
  
  
• You can change your username (handle) too, but if your account is popular, Instagram might temporarily block frequent changes.
  
  
• Once you give up a handle, someone else can claim it.
  
  

Troubleshooting: What If You Can’t Change Your Username?

If Instagram won’t let you change your username:

• It might already be taken – try adding a dot, number, or underscore.
  
  
• Your internet connection might be weak – try again later.
  
  
• There may be a temporary issue – log out and log back in or update the app.
  
  
• If you still can’t change it, contact Instagram Support through the Help Center.
  
  

SEO Recap: Why Instagram Username Change Matters

Updating your Instagram handle or display name isn’t just for looks — it helps your audience find you more easily. Whether you’re a business, content creator, or just updating your personal page, learning how to modify Instagram name, change Instagram handle, and manage your Instagram username change properly can help you grow your presence online.

Final Tips

• Think carefully before making changes.
  
  
• Try to choose a handle that you’ll stick with long-term.
  
  
• Keep your branding consistent across platforms.
  
  
• If you run a business, secure the new handle across your channels before switching on Instagram.

Ready to refresh your Instagram profile? Change your name and handle today to better match your brand or personality! Start now with AMJ Technology Solutions—your upgraded identity is just one tap away.

FAQs: How do I change my handle name?