TikTok allows users to change their username, though there are some limitations on how frequently it can be done. Usernames are an important part of a TikTok profile, as they create a recognizable identity on the platform. However, TikTok realizes that users may want to update their username over time as their interests and goals evolve. The ability to change your username gives users more control over their presence on TikTok.
Why Change Your Username?
There are several reasons why you might want to change your TikTok username:
Your interests may have changed over time. The username you chose when you first joined TikTok might no longer reflect the content you post. Changing your handle to something more relevant can help you establish a consistent brand and attract followers who are interested in your niche.
Your original name may be unprofessional or embarrassing. Many people sign up for TikTok without thinking too hard about their username. But as your account grows, an unprofessional or silly handle can undermine your brand. Changing to something more polished can give you a fresh start.
You want to create a consistent brand. If you post content related to a specific niche like fashion, gaming or cooking, having a relevant username can reinforce what your account is about. Changing your handle to match your niche can help establish cohesion across your TikTok presence.
Requirements
To change your TikTok username, your account must meet certain requirements:
- Your account must be over 30 days old. TikTok does not allow username changes on brand new accounts. You must wait at least 30 days before changing your username for the first time [1].
- You can only change your username once every 30 days. After changing your username, you’ll need to wait 30 days before doing it again [2].
- Your new username must meet TikTok’s content guidelines. Usernames cannot contain prohibited or impersonating content [1].
Meeting these requirements ensures your new username will be accepted when attempting to change it on TikTok.
How to Change Username
Changing your username on TikTok is a straightforward process that can be done directly within the app. According to TikTok’s Help Center, here is the step-by-step guide to changing your username:
1. Open the TikTok app and tap on your profile icon in the bottom right corner.
2. Tap “Edit Profile” to access your profile settings.
3. Tap on the username field and delete your current username.
4. Type in the new username you want and tap “Save” when finished.
TikTok notes that you can only change your username once every 30 days. The URL associated with your profile will also change to reflect the new username.
It’s important to keep in mind that both your old and new username will be searchable for up to 6 months after changing. Your previous content will still be accessible under the old URL during this time.
Changing Display Name
While your username can only be changed once every 30 days, your display name is not subject to the same restrictions. According to TikTok’s Help Center, you can change your display name as often as you want [1]. Your display name is the name that appears on your profile and with your videos, but it does not affect your URL or account handle.
To change your display name, simply tap on your profile icon, select “Edit profile”, then tap on your current display name to change it. The new display name will be updated across your profile. Changing your display name frequently can help you rebrand or test out different names, but consistency is key if you want your brand to be easily recognizable.
The key difference from your username is that changing your display name has no effect on your followers, existing content or URL. It simply changes how your name appears within the app. Your handle and unique account identifier remain the same.
Username Taken?
If your ideal username is already taken on TikTok, try adding variations like extra numbers or characters. For example, @johnson22 or @johnsonnnn. You can also add underscores, dots or dashes like @johnson_22 or @john.son22. Checking different variations is the best way to find a suitable similar username.
If a username has been inactive for over 6 months, TikTok may recycle and release that username. So you can try periodically checking to see if your desired inactive username has been freed up for you to claim. TikTok’s inactive account policy states that “If an account remains inactive for 180 days or more, the username may be reset to a randomized numeric username.” (source) So keep patiently checking for your ideal username if it’s currently taken but inactive.
Effects on Followers
When you change your TikTok username, all of your current followers will be notified of the change. They will see a notification that your username has been updated.
In addition, any links or embeds that used your old username will break. For example, if someone previously linked to your profile using your old handle, that link will no longer work after you change usernames. According to TikTok support, your old username becomes available for anyone else to claim once you switch.
So while the effects on your current followers are relatively minor, changing your username can break existing links. This is something to keep in mind if you have a large following or lots of posts referencing your old profile.
Effects on Content
Changing your TikTok username will not automatically update it on your previously posted videos and content. According to The Verge, your old username will remain on all of your past videos and content even after you change to a new name. This means that previous videos will still be associated with and searchable by your old username.
If you want your previous videos to display your new username, you’ll have to delete them and reupload. But keep in mind that deleting and reuploading videos means you’ll lose any views, likes, and comments on those past posts. You’ll have to rebuild that engagement from scratch.
Overall, changing your username on TikTok leaves your previous content intact under the old name. You can choose to leave it that way or do the extra work of reuploading if you want everything unified under the new username.
Pros and Cons of Changing Your TikTok Username
There are both advantages and disadvantages to changing your username on TikTok. Here are some of the key pros and cons to weigh:
Pros:
- Rebrand your account with a new identity or focus
- Professionalize your username for career or business purposes
Changing your username allows you to give your account a fresh start and rebrand with a new name more aligned to your current interests or goals. It can also help professionalize your presence by removing an old nickname in favor of your real name or business name [1].
Cons:
- Lose existing brand recognition and audience loyalty
- Break existing links, embeds, and tags tied to your old username
The downside is you may lose some brand consistency or recognition you had built up with your old username. Any links, embeds, or tags with your old handle will also break. This disruption can confuse fans who are used to your original name [2].
Conclusion
In summary, it is possible to change your TikTok username, with some limitations. Users are allowed to change their username once every 30 days. When you change your username, your old username becomes unclaimable by other users for 6 months. This allows you to switch back to a previous username if you want.
It’s important to strategize your username choice to allow some flexibility in the future. Don’t use numbers or dates that lock you into a certain identity. Aim for a username that describes your brand and content style, but isn’t so specific that you can’t tweak it later on. That way, you’ll have the option to rebrand or adjust your username over time if needed.
Changing your username also doesn’t affect your previous content or followers. Your old videos remain on your profile under the new name. Followers will still recognize you by your profile photo and content. However, those who search for your old username won’t be able to locate you anymore. So there are tradeoffs to weigh when altering your established TikTok identity.
With the ability to modify your username approximately every month, you have an opportunity to refine your brand over time. Just be sure to choose thoughtfully, considering both current needs and future flexibility.
