Change your name in Facebook settings in under two minutes

To change the name on your Facebook page, open Facebook on any device, click the downward arrow in the top right corner, select Settings and privacy, then Settings. On the left side, click Personal information, then click next to your name to edit it. Type your new name and click Save changes. The change takes effect when ready, though it may take a few minutes to appear everywhere on Facebook.

Facebook limits how often you can change your name — you can change it once every 60 days. If you try to change it more frequently, Facebook will tell you when you can change it again. This limit exists to prevent impersonation and spam.

Key Takeaways

  • You can change your name through Settings and privacy > Settings > Personal information on any device.
  • Facebook allows one name change every 60 days, and the system will tell you the exact date you can change it again if you hit the limit.
  • Your new name appears on your profile, in comments, and in messages, but may take a few minutes to update everywhere.
  • If you want to use a name Facebook considers fake or offensive, you may need to provide ID or wait for a review before the change goes through.

Step-by-step instructions for desktop

On a computer, start by logging into Facebook. In the top right corner, you will see a downward-pointing arrow or your profile picture. Click it to open a menu.

From that menu, click Settings and privacy, then click Settings in the submenu that appears. On the left side of the page, you will see a column of options. Click Personal information. Your name will appear at the top of this section with an edit button next to it — it usually looks like a pencil icon or the word "Edit". Click that button.

A box will open showing your current first and last name. Clear the first name field and type your new first name. If you want to change your last name too, clear that field and type the new one. You can leave either field blank if you prefer. When you are done, click the blue Save changes button at the bottom of the box.

Step-by-step instructions for mobile

On a phone or tablet, open the Facebook app and tap the three horizontal lines (the menu icon) in the bottom right corner. Scroll down and tap Settings and privacy, then tap Settings.

Scroll down until you see Personal information and tap it. Your name will appear with an edit option next to it. Tap to edit. Change your first name, last name, or both in the fields that appear. When you are finished, tap Save at the top right of the screen.

What happens if Facebook blocks your name change

Sometimes Facebook will not let you change your name right away. This happens when Facebook thinks your new name might be fake, offensive, or designed to impersonate someone. When this occurs, Facebook will show you a message explaining why and may ask you to provide a photo of your ID or government-issued document that shows the name you want to use.

If you are asked to provide ID, take a clear photo of the document showing your name and upload it through the prompt Facebook gives you. Facebook reviews these submissions and usually responds within a few days. You do not need to send the original document — a photo is enough. If your name change is denied, Facebook will explain why and may tell you when you can try again.

If you are trying to change your name to something that includes numbers, symbols, or unusual spacing, Facebook may flag it as suspicious. Facebook's name rules require that names look like real names people actually use. If your preferred name genuinely is unusual, providing ID usually resolves the issue.

How long the change takes to show up

Your new name takes effect when ready in your settings, but it may take a few minutes to a few hours to appear everywhere on Facebook — in your profile, in comments you have made, in messages, and in other people's friend lists. This delay happens because Facebook updates different parts of its system at different times.

If you do not see your new name after a few hours, try logging out and logging back in. If it still has not appeared after 24 hours, contact Facebook through the Help Center by searching for "name change" and selecting the option to report a problem.

Changing your name back or changing it again

You can change your name back to your old name using the same process, but you still have to wait 60 days between changes. If you changed your name yesterday and want to change it again today, Facebook will not let you — the system will show you the exact date when you can make another change.

The 60-day timer resets each time you make a change. If you change your name on January 15, you cannot change it again until March 15. If you change it again on March 15, the next change is not available until May 15.

What your old name looks like to other people

When you change your name, everyone on Facebook sees your new name going forward. Old comments and messages you sent will show your new name, not your old one. People cannot see your previous names unless you tell them — Facebook does not display a history of past names on your profile.

If you are concerned about people recognizing you after a name change, remember that your profile picture, friends list, and posts all stay the same. People who know you will likely figure out it is you. If you want more privacy, consider adjusting your profile settings to limit who can see your friends list, posts, or profile picture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my name to something with numbers or symbols in it?

Facebook generally does not allow numbers or special symbols in names because it considers them suspicious. If your real name genuinely includes numbers or symbols, you can try uploading a photo of your ID to prove it. Facebook will review your request, though approval is not may provide.

What if I forgot my password and cannot log in to change my name?

Go to facebook.com and click "Forgotten password?" on the login screen. Facebook will send a reset link to the email or phone number connected to your account. Once you reset your password and log in, you can change your name using the steps above.

Does changing my name affect my Facebook Page if I run a business page?

No. Your personal profile name and your business Page name are separate. Changing your personal name does not change your business Page name. To change a business Page name, go to the Page, click Settings, then click Page information, and edit the name there.

How long does it take Facebook to review my ID if they ask for one?

Facebook usually reviews ID submissions within a few days, though it can take up to a week during busy periods. You will receive a notification when the review is complete. If approved, your name change goes through when ready. If denied, Facebook explains why.

Can I change my name if I have been reported for impersonation?

If your account is under review for impersonation, Facebook may restrict name changes until the review is complete. If you cannot change your name, a message will explain that your account is restricted. Contact Facebook through the Help Center to ask about the status of your review.