Your Fortnite username changes separately from your Xbox gamertag

When you change your Xbox gamertag, your Fortnite username does not change automatically. Fortnite uses its own account system — an Epic Games account — that sits on top of your Xbox login. This means you need to make the change in two places: first on Xbox (which you may have already done), then in Fortnite itself through Epic Games.

The process takes about five minutes and requires you to sign into your Epic Games account from a web browser or the Epic Games Launcher. You cannot change your Fortnite username from inside the game on Xbox.

Key Takeaways

  • Your Fortnite username is controlled by Epic Games, not Xbox, so changing your gamertag on Xbox does not change your Fortnite name.
  • You must sign into your Epic Games account through a web browser or the Epic Games Launcher to change your Fortnite username.
  • Fortnite usernames can be changed once every 30 days, and the change takes effect when ready in-game.
  • If you do not remember your Epic Games password, use the "Forgot Password" link on the Epic Games sign-in page to reset it.

Sign into your Epic Games account

Go to www.epicgames.com in any web browser and click the sign-in button in the top right corner. Enter the email address or username associated with your Epic Games account, then enter your password.

If you are not sure which email you used, check your Xbox settings. Go to Settings > Account > Connected apps & experiences and look for Epic Games. The email shown there is the one linked to your Fortnite account.

If you have two-factor authentication enabled on your Epic Games account, you will be asked to enter a code from your authenticator app or email after you enter your password. Complete that step to finish signing in.

Navigate to your account settings

Once you are signed in, click your account name or avatar in the top right corner and select Account from the dropdown menu. You will be taken to your Epic Games account page.

On the left side of the page, you will see a menu with several options. Click General to access your basic account information, including your username.

Change your display name

In the General section, look for the field labeled Display Name. This is the name that appears in Fortnite and other Epic Games titles. Click the pencil icon next to it or click directly in the field to edit it.

Type your new username. Fortnite usernames can be 3 to 16 characters long and can include letters, numbers, hyphens, and underscores. Spaces and special characters like @ or # are not allowed. Epic Games will tell you when ready if the name is already taken or contains blocked words.

Click Save to confirm the change. The new username takes effect right away in Fortnite, though it may take a few minutes to appear in all game menus and to other players.

Understand the 30-day waiting period

After you change your Fortnite username, you cannot change it again for 30 days. This rule applies whether you change it through the Epic Games website or through another method. If you try to change it before 30 days have passed, the save button will be greyed out and you will see a message telling you when you can change it next.

If you made a typo or chose a name you do not like, you will need to wait the full 30 days before you can change it again. Plan your username carefully before you save.

What to do if you cannot sign into Epic Games

If you forgot your Epic Games password, click Forgot Password on the sign-in page. Enter the email address associated with your account, and Epic Games will send you a password reset link. Check your email (including spam folders) and click the link to create a new password.

If you do not have access to the email address linked to your account, you will need to contact Epic Games support. Go to www.epicgames.com/help and click Contact Us. Describe your situation and provide proof that you own the account, such as a receipt from a purchase made on that account or the Xbox gamertag linked to it. Epic Games support can help you regain access.

Verify the change in Fortnite

Launch Fortnite on your Xbox and sign in. Your new username should appear in the top left corner of the main menu and in your profile. If you still see your old name, try restarting the game or signing out and back in.

Other players will see your new username in matches, on your profile, and in chat. If you are in a party with friends, they will see the change the next time they view your profile or the next time you join a match together.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my Fortnite username more than once?

Yes, but only once every 30 days. After you change your username, you must wait a full 30 days before you can change it again. The 30-day timer starts the moment you save the new name.

Will changing my Fortnite username affect my Xbox friends list?

No. Your Xbox friends list is tied to your Xbox gamertag, not your Fortnite username. Friends will still see you in their Xbox friends list under your Xbox gamertag, but they will see your new Fortnite username when you are playing Fortnite.

What if my desired username is already taken?

Epic Games will show you an error message if the name you chose is already in use. Try a variation — add numbers, hyphens, or underscores to the end of the name you want. You can also check if a username is available before you sign in by visiting the Epic Games website and searching for the player.

Does my Fortnite username have to match my Xbox gamertag?

No. Your Fortnite username and Xbox gamertag are completely separate. You can have any username in Fortnite regardless of what your Xbox gamertag is. Many players keep different names on each platform.

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

The change takes effect when ready, though it may take a few minutes to appear in all menus and to other players. If you do not see it right away, restart Fortnite or sign out and back in.