You cannot change your PokerStars username once it is created

PokerStars does not allow you to edit or modify your username after you have registered your account. The name you choose during signup is permanent — there is no built-in tool in the PokerStars client, website, or account settings to alter it.

This is a deliberate policy. PokerStars treats usernames as fixed identifiers tied to your account history, tournament records, and player statistics. Changing a username would break the connection between your play history and your account, which would affect leaderboards, tournament results, and how other players recognize you.

If you created an account with a username you now dislike or regret, your only option is to contact PokerStars support and request account closure, then create a new account with a different username. This means starting fresh — your old account's statistics, balance, and play history remain on the closed account and cannot be transferred.

Key Takeaways

  • PokerStars usernames cannot be changed after account creation, and no in-app tool exists to modify them.
  • If you want a different username, you must close your current account and create a new one from scratch.
  • Closing an account does not transfer your balance, statistics, or tournament history to a new account.
  • You should choose your username carefully during signup because it will be permanent for the life of that account.
  • PokerStars support cannot change your username even if you request it — the policy applies to all accounts.

How to contact PokerStars support if you want to close your account

If you have decided to close your current account and start over with a new username, you will need to go through PokerStars support. Log into your account, go to the Help or Support section (usually found in the menu or settings), and look for "Contact Us" or a similar option. You can also visit the PokerStars website and find their support contact page without logging in.

When you contact support, be clear that you want to close your account permanently. Explain that you wish to create a new account with a different username. Support will walk you through the closure process. They may ask you to confirm your decision because account closure is irreversible — once closed, you cannot reopen it or recover the balance or history associated with it.

The closure process typically takes a few business days. After your account is closed, you can register a new account with a fresh username. You will need to provide new contact information and go through the standard signup process again, including any identity verification PokerStars requires.

What happens to your money and statistics when you close an account

Any real money balance in your account stays with the closed account — it does not transfer to a new one. If you have cash in your account, you should withdraw it to your bank or payment method before requesting closure. Once the account is closed, retrieving that balance becomes much more difficult and may require additional support requests.

Your tournament history, player statistics, achievements, and any rewards or loyalty points are tied to the closed account. None of this carries over to a new account. You will start with zero statistics, zero tournament results, and zero loyalty points on your new account. This is an important consideration if you have built up a significant play history or earned rewards you value.

Why PokerStars does not allow username changes

The reason PokerStars locks usernames is the same reason most online poker sites do: player identity and account security. Your username is how other players know you, how tournament results are recorded, and how your skill rating and reputation are built over time. If usernames could be changed, a player could change their name to hide a losing streak, evade a reputation, or confuse other players about their skill level.

Usernames are also linked to anti-fraud and responsible gaming systems. PokerStars uses account history to detect suspicious activity and to enforce self-exclusion or cooling-off periods. A changeable username would make these protections weaker because the connection between a person and their account history would become unclear.

Tips for choosing a username before you sign up

Since you cannot change your username later, take a moment to think about what you want it to be. Avoid usernames that include your real name, birthdate, or other personal information — this is a security risk on any online platform. Do not use a username that you might regret or that could be embarrassing if other players see it.

Consider whether you want your username to reflect your playing style, your personality, or something neutral. Some players prefer usernames that are memorable and straightforward for others to type. Others prefer something generic that does not stand out. There is no right answer — just choose something you are comfortable seeing in tournament results and chat for as long as you play on PokerStars.

If you are unsure, you can always create a new account with a test username first, play a few hands to see how it feels, and then decide whether to close it and create your real account. This costs nothing and takes only a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can PokerStars support change my username for me?

No. PokerStars support cannot change usernames under any circumstances. The policy applies to all accounts equally. If you want a different username, you must close your account and create a new one.

Will I lose my money if I close my account?

Your money does not disappear, but it stays in the closed account and does not transfer to a new one. Withdraw your balance to your bank or payment method before requesting closure. After closure, retrieving the balance requires contacting support and may take additional time.

Can I reopen a closed PokerStars account?

No. Once you close an account, it is permanently closed. You cannot reopen it or recover the username. You can only create a brand new account with a different username and contact information.

How long does it take to close my account?

Account closure typically takes a few business days after you submit the request to support. You can create a new account when ready after closure is complete, but you will need to wait for the old account to be fully processed first.

What if I forgot my username and want to create a new account instead?

You can create a new account with a different username at any time. You do not need to close your old account first — you can have multiple accounts registered under different usernames. However, PokerStars terms of service typically allow only one active account per person, so check their current policy before registering a second account.