Your Fortnite username changes through Epic Games, not through Nintendo Switch settings

Your Fortnite name is tied to your Epic Games account, not your Nintendo Switch profile. Even though you play Fortnite on your Switch, changing the name happens on Epic's website or through the Fortnite app on any device. Nintendo Switch username changes do not affect your Fortnite identity — they are separate systems.

The process takes about five minutes and requires you to sign into your Epic Games account. You can change your name once every 30 days, and the change takes effect when ready in all Fortnite matches and lobbies.

Key Takeaways

  • Your Fortnite username lives on your Epic Games account, so you change it through Epic's website or the Fortnite app, not through Nintendo Switch settings.
  • You can change your Fortnite name once every 30 days, and each change takes effect right away across all platforms.
  • If your Switch is linked to a child account, you may need parental permission to change the name depending on your account restrictions.
  • The name you choose must be between 3 and 16 characters, cannot contain certain words, and cannot match another player's current name.

Sign into your Epic Games account on the web

Go to www.epicgames.com and click Sign In in the top right corner. Enter the email address and password for the Epic Games account linked to your Nintendo Switch. If you have two-factor authentication turned on, you will need to enter a code from your authenticator app or email.

Once you are signed in, look for your account menu — usually a circle with your current username or avatar in the top right. Click it and select Account.

Navigate to your display name settings

In your account page, find the left sidebar menu and click General. You will see a section labeled Display Name with your current Fortnite username displayed.

Next to your display name, click the pencil icon or Edit button. A text box will appear where you can type your new name.

Choose and confirm your new username

Type the new name you want. Fortnite usernames must be 3 to 16 characters long and can include letters, numbers, and underscores. The name cannot start with a number, and Epic Games blocks certain words from being used.

As you type, Epic will tell you whether the name is available. If it shows a green checkmark, the name is yours to claim. If it shows a red X, that name is already taken or contains blocked words — try a different combination. Once you see the green checkmark, click Save or Confirm.

Wait for the change to take effect

Your new username appears in Fortnite when ready after you save it. The next time you launch Fortnite on your Nintendo Switch, you will see your new name in the lobby and in matches. Friends will see the updated name right away too.

You cannot change your name again for 30 days from the date you made this change. If you try to change it before 30 days have passed, Epic will show you a countdown timer telling you when you can change it next.

What to do if the name is unavailable or blocked

If every name you try is taken or blocked, add numbers or underscores to make it unique. For example, if "Shadow" is taken, try "Shadow_2024" or "Shadow42". Epic allows underscores in usernames, and numbers at the end usually make a name available.

If you see a message that your chosen name violates Epic's content policy, it contains a word or phrase that Fortnite does not allow. Try removing or replacing that part of the name. Common blocked words include slurs, explicit language, and references to real people or brands.

Change your name through the Fortnite app instead

If you do not want to use a web browser, you can change your display name through the Fortnite app on your Switch, phone, or computer. Open Fortnite, go to the main menu, and select your profile icon in the top right. Choose Account, then General, then Display Name. The steps are the same as on the website.

Some players find the app easier because they are already in Fortnite and do not need to open a separate browser. The result is identical either way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my Fortnite username if my Switch account is a child account?

You can change it, but your parent or guardian may need to give permission depending on your account restrictions. If you see a message saying you need parental consent, ask the adult who set up your account to sign into their parent account on Epic Games and approve the change.

Will changing my Fortnite username affect my V-Bucks or skins?

No. Your V-Bucks, skins, battle pass progress, and all other items stay on your account. Only your display name changes. Everything else remains exactly the same.

What happens if I change my username and then want the old one back?

You have to wait 30 days before you can change your name again. After 30 days, you can change it back to your old name if no one else has claimed it in the meantime. If someone else took it, you cannot use that exact name again.

Does my Nintendo Switch username need to match my Fortnite username?

No. Your Switch profile name and your Fortnite name are completely separate. You can have any Nintendo Switch username and any Fortnite username, and they do not have to be the same.

How long does it take for my new Fortnite username to show up in matches?

It shows up when ready. The next time you load into a match after changing your name, everyone will see your new username. You do not have to restart your Switch or the game.