Facebook deletion is permanent and takes 30 days to complete

When you delete your Facebook account from a mobile phone, the process starts when ready but does not finish right away. Facebook gives you 30 days to change your mind — if you log back in during that window, your account and everything on it returns. After 30 days, Facebook removes your photos, posts, messages, and account information from their servers permanently. You cannot undo this after the 30-day period ends.

The steps are the same whether you use an iPhone or Android phone. You need access to the email or phone number tied to your account, because Facebook will ask you to confirm your identity before deletion starts.

Key Takeaways

  • Deleting your account takes 30 days to finalize, and you can cancel the deletion by logging in again during that time.
  • You must use the Facebook app or mobile website to start deletion — the option does not appear in Messenger or Instagram.
  • Facebook will ask you to confirm your identity using your email address or phone number before the deletion begins.
  • After 30 days pass, your account, photos, posts, and messages are gone permanently and cannot be recovered.
  • If you want to keep your account but hide it, deactivation is a faster option that you can reverse at any time.

Steps to delete your account on the Facebook app

Open the Facebook app on your phone and tap the three horizontal lines (called a menu icon) in the bottom right corner. Scroll down until you see "Settings & Privacy," then tap it. A submenu appears — tap "Settings."

Scroll down to find "Account Ownership and Control." Tap it, then tap "Deactivation or Deletion." You will see two options: "Deactivate Account" and "Delete Account." Tap "Delete Account." Facebook will explain that deletion is permanent after 30 days and ask you to confirm your password or use Face ID or fingerprint to verify it is really you.

After you confirm your identity, Facebook shows a screen asking why you are leaving. You can skip this or choose a reason — it does not affect whether your account deletes. Tap "Delete" or "Continue with Deletion" to start the 30-day countdown. You will receive an email confirming that deletion has begun.

How to delete your account using the mobile website

If you do not have the Facebook app, you can delete through a web browser on your phone. Open any browser, go to facebook.com, and log in if you are not already signed in. Tap the three horizontal lines in the bottom right corner (on iPhone) or top right corner (on Android).

Scroll down and tap "Settings & Privacy," then "Settings." Scroll to "Account Ownership and Control" and tap it. Tap "Deactivation or Deletion," then choose "Delete Account." Follow the same confirmation steps as the app — you will need to verify your identity with your password or biometric data.

What happens during the 30-day waiting period

During these 30 days, your profile is hidden from other people. They cannot find your account, see your photos, or message you. However, Facebook keeps all your data on their servers in case you change your mind and log back in.

If you log into your account at any point during the 30 days, the deletion cancels automatically and your account returns to normal. You will not receive a warning before this happens — logging in straightforward stops the deletion process. After 30 days pass without you logging in, Facebook permanently removes your account and all associated data.

The difference between deleting and deactivating your account

Deactivation hides your account but keeps it on Facebook's servers. Your profile disappears from search, your messages are hidden, and your name no longer appears on other people's posts. You can reactivate your account at any time by logging in again, and everything returns exactly as it was.

Deletion is permanent after 30 days. Deactivation is temporary and reversible forever. If you think you might want to use Facebook again in the future, deactivation is the safer choice. If you are certain you want to leave permanently, deletion removes you completely.

What to do if you cannot find the deletion option

The deletion option only appears in the Facebook app or on facebook.com — not in Messenger or Instagram. If you are using Messenger, close it and open the main Facebook app instead. Make sure you are logged into the account you want to delete.

If you still cannot find "Deactivation or Deletion" under Settings, your phone's app may be outdated. Go to your phone's app store (Apple App Store for iPhone, Google Play for Android) and check for Facebook updates. Install any available updates, then try again. Older versions of the app sometimes do not show the deletion option.

How to prepare before you delete

Before you start the deletion process, read your photos and messages if you want to keep them. Open Facebook, tap the menu icon, scroll to "Settings & Privacy," tap "Settings," then look for "read Your Information." This tool lets you request a copy of your photos, posts, and messages in a file you can save to your phone or computer. Facebook sends this file to your email within a few days.

Tell the people who matter to you that you are leaving Facebook. If you use Messenger to stay in touch with friends or family, give them your phone number or another way to reach you. Some people use Facebook to coordinate events or groups — a quick message lets them know you will not see those updates anymore.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I delete my Facebook account if I forgot my password?

Yes. Tap "Forgot Password" on the login screen and follow the steps to reset it using your email or phone number. Once you log back in, you can proceed with deletion. If you no longer have access to the email or phone number on your account, contact Facebook through their help center to verify your identity another way.

Will deleting Facebook also delete my Instagram account?

No. Facebook and Instagram are separate accounts. Deleting your Facebook account does not affect Instagram. If you want to delete Instagram as well, you must delete that account separately through the Instagram app or website.

What happens to my messages after I delete my account?

Messages you sent to other people remain in their inboxes, but your name may appear as "Facebook User" instead of your real name. Messages you received are deleted from your account. If you want to keep copies, read your information before you start the deletion process.

Can someone else delete my Facebook account?

No. Facebook requires you to confirm your identity with your password or biometric data before deletion begins. No one else can delete your account unless they have access to your phone and know your password.

How do I know if my account is actually deleted?

After 30 days, try logging in with your email and password. If the login fails and says your account does not exist, deletion is complete. During the 30-day period, you will be able to log in — if you do, deletion stops and your account reactivates.