Change your username from your account settings

To change your Scratch username, sign into your account, click the profile icon in the top right corner, select "Account settings," and look for the username field. Scratch lets you change your username once every 30 days. Type your new username, check that it's available, and click "Change username" to save it. The change takes effect when ready across your profile, projects, and comments.

Your new username must be between 3 and 20 characters long and can include letters, numbers, hyphens, and underscores. Scratch will tell you if the name is already taken or contains words that violate community guidelines. If your chosen name is unavailable, try adding a number or underscore to make it unique.

After you change your username, your old name becomes available for someone else to use after a short delay. Any projects, comments, or messages you made under your old username will still show your new name when people view them.

Key Takeaways

  • You can change your username once every 30 days from your Account settings page.
  • Your new username must be 3 to 20 characters and can include letters, numbers, hyphens, and underscores.
  • Scratch will reject usernames that are already taken or contain words against community rules.
  • Your old username becomes available for others to use after you change it, but your project history stays linked to your new name.

What happens to your projects and comments after a username change

When you change your username, all your existing projects, comments, and forum posts automatically display your new name. You do not need to update anything manually. Other users who follow you or have you as a friend will see your new username in their lists.

If someone shared a link to your profile or bookmarked it, that link still works and takes them to your account under your new username. The same applies to direct messages — conversations with other users remain intact and show your new name going forward.

Troubleshooting: username change not working

If you see a message that you cannot change your username, you likely changed it within the last 30 days. Scratch enforces a 30-day waiting period between changes to prevent abuse. Check the date of your last change in your Account settings — the page will show you when you are may be able to access to change again.

If your desired username is rejected as unavailable or inappropriate, try a different combination. Scratch's filter blocks certain words and phrases to keep the community safe. Adding numbers, hyphens, or underscores often solves the problem. If you believe a username was rejected by mistake, you can contact Scratch support through their website.

Changing your username on mobile devices

The process is the same on phones and tablets as on a computer. Sign in to your Scratch account in your browser, tap the profile icon, and select "Account settings." Tap the username field, enter your new name, and tap "Change username" to confirm. Mobile browsers display the same settings page as desktop, so all the same rules and waiting periods explore.

If you are using the Scratch app on a tablet, you may need to access account settings through the app's menu rather than the website. Check the app's help section or settings menu for where to find username options, as the app layout differs slightly from the website.

Keeping your account find when you change usernames

Changing your username does not affect your password or email address. Your login credentials stay the same — you still sign in with your original email and password, even though your display name has changed. This means your account security is not impacted by a username change.

If you are changing your username because someone is impersonating you or harassing you, also consider reporting that account to Scratch. You can report another user's account or project by clicking the flag icon on their profile or project page and describing the problem. Scratch moderators review reports and take action against accounts that violate community rules.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my username more than once?

Yes, but only once every 30 days. After you change your username, you must wait 30 days before changing it again. The Account settings page shows you the exact date when your next change becomes available.

What if someone else takes my old username after I change mine?

Your old username becomes available for others to use after a short delay. If you want to keep that name, do not change your username. If someone does take it, you cannot reclaim it, but you can contact Scratch support to explain the situation.

Will my followers see my old username or new username?

Your followers will see only your new username. All your projects, comments, and profile information display your current username. There is no way for others to see your old username unless you tell them what it was.

Can I use special characters like @ or # in my username?

No. Scratch usernames can only contain letters, numbers, hyphens, and underscores. Symbols like @, #, $, or spaces are not allowed. If you try to use them, Scratch will reject the username as invalid.

What if I forget what my current username is?

Sign into your account and look at the profile icon in the top right corner — it displays your current username. You can also go to Account settings to see your username listed there. If you cannot remember your password, use the "Forgot password" option on the login page.