Changing your Reddit username is a simple yet essential task for those who want to update their online identity on the platform. Whether you are new to Reddit and want to personalize your profile or you simply made a mistake during account creation, the process to change your username differs slightly depending on the device you’re using.
Once a Reddit username is set, it is permanent and cannot be changed. This policy means that users are stuck with the username they chose or were assigned when they created their account. The only exception to this rule occurs if a user created their account using a Google or Apple login and has not yet finalized their assigned username within the first 30 days. In that case, they can change their username once before it becomes permanent.
It’s important to note that while Reddit allows you to change your display name (visible name), the username, which is your unique identifier on the platform, can typically only be modified once if prompted after initial account creation.
In this guide, we will walk you through the specific steps to change your Reddit username, both on the desktop (web version) and on mobile devices such as Android, iPhone, or iPad. This guide will also cover any limitations and provide tips to ensure your new username meets Reddit’s guidelines.
How to Change Your Username on Reddit (Website)
Changing your Reddit username on the website is straightforward but can only be done under specific circumstances, such as when you’re prompted to set a username for the first time after account creation.
- Log in to Your Reddit Account
Begin by navigating to the Reddit website and logging in with your current credentials. Once logged in, click on your profile icon located at the top-right corner of the page to open a drop-down menu. - Click Profile Icon
After clicking your profile icon, a drop-down menu will appear. If you’re still using a temporary username, Reddit will prompt you to choose a new, permanent username. Click the “Change Username” button to proceed.
- Enter and Confirm Your New Reddit Username
A new window will appear asking you to enter your desired username. After typing in your preferred username, confirm it by clicking “Continue“. Ensure that your chosen name follows Reddit’s guidelines and is available.
- Save Your Reddit Username
Confirm it by clicking “Save Username“.
How to Change Username on Reddit Mobile
If you’re using Reddit on a mobile device, the steps to change your username are slightly different. This method applies to both Android and iOS devices.
- Open the Reddit App and Sign In
Launch the Reddit app on your Android or iOS device. If you’re not already signed in, enter your credentials to access your account. - Access Profile Settings
Once logged in, tap on your avatar or profile icon at the top-left or top-right corner of the app, depending on your device. This will open a sidebar menu where you can access “Profile“. - Check for Username Prompt
Similar to the web version, if you are using a temporary username, Reddit will prompt you to set a permanent one. Tap “Change Username” to proceed. - Choose and Save the New Reddit Username
Enter your new desired username in the field provided, then tap “Continue” to save the change. Make sure your username is unique and adheres to Reddit’s guidelines.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About the Reddit Username
What are the username guidelines I need to follow on Reddit?
When choosing a Reddit username, ensure that it is unique and not in use by another user. Adhere to the platform’s content guidelines by avoiding offensive or explicit language, impersonation, and sensitive content. Your username should represent your identity without violating community norms and should be easy to remember.
How can I check if a Reddit username is available?
To check the availability of a Reddit username, start the process of changing your username as detailed in the platform’s interface. As you input your desired username, Reddit will automatically verify its availability and inform you if it’s already taken. You may have to attempt different variations if your initial choice is unavailable.
What should I do if my desired username is already taken?
If your preferred username is already taken, try modifying it slightly by adding numbers, underscores, or variations in spelling. Keep experimenting with alternatives until you find an available username that still resonates with your personal or brand identity.
Will changing my username affect my previous posts or comments?
Changing your username on Reddit will not affect the visibility or continuity of your previous posts and comments. They will still be accessible and visible to other users, but they will be associated with your new username. Be aware that direct mentions (@username) in the comments will not update to reflect your new username.
What happens to mentions of my old username in comments and posts?
When you change your Reddit username, any mentions of your old username in comments and posts will not update. These mentions will no longer link back to your profile, which may affect how new users find your past interactions if they are searching for your old username.
Can I use special characters in my Reddit username?
Reddit usernames must be alphanumeric and cannot include special symbols or characters. This includes spaces and punctuation, except for underscores. Your username must also start with an alphabetic character and can have a length between 3 to 20 characters.
Does Reddit notify my followers when I change my username?
Reddit does not send out notifications to your followers when you change your username. It is advisable to inform your followers through a post or comment if maintaining contact or community presence is important to you.
How long does it take for a username change to reflect across the Reddit platform?
Username changes on Reddit are typically reflected immediately across the platform. However, there might be a short delay for all instances of your new username to appear in all sections, especially in comments, posts, and direct mentions.
Can I revert to my old Reddit username after changing it?
Once you finalize a username change on Reddit, you cannot revert to your old username. As usernames are unique and can subsequently be claimed by new users, it is important to be certain before making a final decision on changing your username.
What should I consider when choosing a new Reddit username to ensure it reflects my identity?
Choose a username that aligns with your identity, interests, or brand while ensuring it is appropriate and adheres to Reddit’s community standards. Consider how your username will be perceived publicly and whether it fits the niche or communities you are involved in. A memorable, easy-to-spell username often has the best impact and recall.
Can I change my username if I set it up without using Google or Apple?
If you initially set up your Reddit account without using Google or Apple, your username is permanent and cannot be changed. This policy underscores the importance of choosing a username carefully during the account creation process.
Can I change my username more than once using the mobile app during the initial period?
During the initial 30-day period after creating your account using a Google or Apple login, you are allowed to change your username once. If you miss this window or have already finalized your username, no further changes are possible.
If I mistakenly choose a username, can I change it immediately before finalizing it?
Yes, if within the first 30 days of account creation via Google or Apple, and before finalizing your username, you can change it. Make sure to finalize your choice only when you are satisfied with the new username, as after this point, it becomes permanent.
Is changing my Reddit username reversible within the first 30 days if I haven’t finalized my choice?
Yes, you can change your username within the first 30 days of account creation if set up through Google or Apple, provided you haven’t finalized it. This window allows you to try out different usernames but remember, you can only change it once.
Are there any restrictions on changing my Reddit username during the initial setup on desktop?
During the initial setup, specifically within the 30-day window for accounts created via Google or Apple login, you may change your username once. Ensure you have not clicked “Save Username” because once the username is finalized, it becomes permanent, and no further changes can be made.
Related: How to Change the Snapchat Username or Display Name
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Related: How to Change Your Instagram Username
If you have changed your niche, target audience, or style of content, you might want to change your username to reflect that. In our other guide, we show you how to change your name on Instagram in the mobile app or on a PC using the web version.
Related: How to Change Your Spotify Username and Profile Picture
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Last Updated on November 7, 2024 3:14 pm CET
