You can change your Xbox gamertag through your Microsoft account settings on any device with internet access
Your Xbox gamertag is the name other players see when you're online. Microsoft lets you change it once per year for free, and additional changes cost money. The process takes about five minutes and happens through your Microsoft account, not through the Xbox console itself — though you can start from the console if you want.
You don't need to be at your Xbox to make the change. You can do it on a computer, phone, or tablet by signing into your Microsoft account. The new name takes effect when ready across all your Xbox devices and services tied to that account.
Key Takeaways
- Your first gamertag change each year is free; changes after that cost money, which varies by region.
- You can change your gamertag on any device with a web browser by signing into your Microsoft account — you don't need to be at your Xbox.
- The new name appears everywhere your account is used within a few minutes, including on your profile, in games, and on the Xbox app.
- If someone else has already claimed the name you want, you'll see that when ready and can choose a different one before paying.
- You can't change your gamertag if your account has an outstanding balance, a suspension, or an enforcement action against it.
How to change your gamertag on a computer or phone
Go to account.microsoft.com and sign in with the email and password for your Xbox account. Once you're signed in, look for "Your info" or "Account" in the left menu, then select "Manage your Microsoft account" or similar wording depending on which version of the site you see.
Find the section labeled "Gamertag" or "Xbox profile" — it's usually near the top of your account settings. Click or tap the option to change it. You'll see a box where you can type a new name. Type what you want, and the system will tell you right away whether it's taken. If it is, try another name until you find one that's available. Once you've found a name you like, you'll see the cost (free for your first change that year, or a fee for additional changes). Confirm the change, and it's done.
Changing your gamertag from your Xbox console
If you're at your Xbox, you can start the process there. Press the Xbox button on your controller to open the guide, then go to "Profile & system" and select "Profile." Choose "Customize profile," then select "Change gamertag."
This will open a browser window on your console that takes you to the same Microsoft account page described above. You'll still need to sign in and follow the same steps. The console method is convenient if you're already playing, but it's not faster than using a computer or phone — it just saves you from switching devices.
What happens if your name is taken or blocked
If the name you want is already in use by another player, the system will tell you when ready. You can keep trying different variations until you find one that's available. There's no waiting list — you either get the name or you don't.
Some names are blocked by Microsoft because they contain profanity, slurs, or references to real people or organizations. If you try a blocked name, you'll see a message saying it's not allowed. The system won't tell you exactly why, but common reasons include offensive language, impersonation of celebrities or public figures, or names that violate Xbox's code of conduct. You'll need to choose a different name.
When you can't change your gamertag
Your account must be in good standing to change your gamertag. If your account has an outstanding balance (money you owe Microsoft for games or services), you won't be able to change it until you pay. The same applies if your account is under suspension or has an enforcement action against it — these are penalties Microsoft applies when an account violates the Xbox code of conduct.
If you see a message saying you can't change your gamertag, check your account status first. Go to enforcement.xbox.com to see if there are any active suspensions or enforcement actions. If there's a balance owed, you can see that in your Microsoft account billing section. Resolve the issue, and you'll be able to change your gamertag.
The cost of changing your gamertag more than once per year
Your first gamertag change in a calendar year is free. If you want to change it again within that same year, Microsoft charges a fee. The price varies by region and currency — it's typically between $7 and $10 USD equivalent, but check your local Microsoft store to see the exact amount in your area.
The fee is charged to your Microsoft account payment method at the time you confirm the change. If you don't have a payment method on file, you'll need to add one before you can pay for a second change. The charge appears on your statement as "Microsoft Store" or similar.
What changes and what stays the same
Your gamertag is the name that appears on your profile, in multiplayer games, on leaderboards, and in messages to other players. When you change it, that name updates everywhere within a few minutes. Your friends list, achievements, game progress, and play history all stay exactly the same — changing your name doesn't affect any of that.
Your Microsoft account email address does not change when you change your gamertag. Your email is what you use to sign in; your gamertag is just the display name. If you want to change your email address, that's a separate process in your Microsoft account settings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my gamertag back to what it was before?
Yes, but only if no one else has claimed that old name. If someone else took it after you changed away from it, you can't use it again unless they change their name first. You can try to claim it as your next change, but if it's taken, you'll need to pick something else.
How long does it take for my new gamertag to show up in games?
It usually appears within a few minutes across all your devices and in all games. Sometimes it takes up to an hour in older games or if you're already signed in — you may need to sign out and back in to see the new name. Restarting your console or app can speed this up.
What if I change my mind right after changing my gamertag?
You can change it again when ready, but you'll have to pay the fee for a second change within the same year. Microsoft doesn't offer refunds for gamertag changes, so make sure you're happy with the new name before you confirm it.
Do I need Xbox Game Pass to change my gamertag?
No. You only need a Microsoft account and internet access. Game Pass is not required. The change is available to any account, whether it has Game Pass or not.
Will my friends still be able to find me after I change my gamertag?
Yes. Your friends list doesn't change, and they'll see your new name the next time they look at their friends list or play with you. You don't need to re-add anyone or send new friend requests.