You cannot take a username from another account, but Instagram has a process to request one under specific circumstances
If the username you want belongs to an inactive account, you can request it from Instagram through their official form. Instagram does not transfer usernames between active accounts, and there is no way to buy, trade, or force a transfer from another user. Your only path is to contact Instagram directly and explain why the account should be considered inactive.
The account holding the username must meet Instagram's definition of inactive: no posts, no profile picture, and no activity for at least six months. Even then, Instagram reviews each request individually and does not may provide approval. If the account is active in any way—even just a profile photo or a single old post—your request will be denied.
Key Takeaways
- Instagram only releases usernames from accounts with no posts, no profile picture, and no activity for at least six months.
- You submit a request through Instagram's official username request form, not through direct messages or support chat.
- Instagram reviews requests manually and may take weeks to respond; approval is not may provide even if the account appears inactive.
- If your request is denied, you can try again after waiting several months, or choose a variation of the username you want.
- Usernames held by verified accounts, brand accounts, or accounts with any recent activity will not be released.
How to submit a username request to Instagram
Go to Instagram's Help Center and search for "Request a Username." This takes you to a form where you enter the username you want and explain why you need it. Instagram asks you to describe your intended use—whether it is for a business, creator account, or personal brand—and why that specific username matters to you.
Fill in the form completely and honestly. Instagram is more likely to approve requests from people building a legitimate presence than from people who want a username purely to resell it or keep it unused. Include details like your account name, the username you are requesting, and how long you have been trying to use that name.
Submit the form and wait. Instagram does not send automatic confirmation that your request was received. You will only hear back if they approve or deny it, which can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks. Check the email address associated with your Instagram account regularly.
What makes an account inactive enough to release the username
The account must have no posts at all—not even one old photo from years ago. It must have no profile picture. And it must show no activity for at least six months. "Activity" means logging in, posting, commenting, liking, or following new accounts. A completely blank profile that has not been touched in half a year is the only kind Instagram will consider.
Verified accounts are almost never released, even if they are inactive. If the account belongs to a public figure, celebrity, or brand—even a dormant one—Instagram protects it. The same applies to accounts that Instagram has flagged as important to the platform's history or culture.
If the account has a profile picture but no posts, or posts but no activity in months, it does not meet the threshold. Instagram's standard is strict because usernames are valuable and the company wants to prevent harassment or impersonation.
What to do if your request is denied
If Instagram denies your request, the account likely has some activity you could not see, or it does not meet their inactivity standard. You can submit another request after waiting several months, in case the account becomes more clearly inactive or Instagram's review changes.
In the meantime, consider a username variation. Add a number, underscore, or period to the name you want: username_official, username.real, or username2024. Many successful accounts use variations because the exact name was taken. Your followers will find you through search, and the variation becomes part of your brand identity.
You can also check whether the account holder is reachable. If the account has a business email or contact information in the bio, you could ask directly whether they would be willing to release the username. Some inactive accounts are held by people who have moved on from Instagram and might agree to a transfer if asked politely. Instagram does not facilitate these private transfers, but if both parties agree, one person can delete their account and the other can claim the username when ready after.
Why Instagram will not let you buy or trade usernames
Instagram's policy prevents username sales and trades to stop impersonation and fraud. If usernames could be bought, people could purchase names that look like major brands or public figures and use them to scam followers. The restriction protects both users and the platform.
Third-party services that claim to sell Instagram usernames or broker transfers are scams. They cannot actually transfer usernames, and they often steal account credentials or money. Do not use them.
Alternatives if the username is truly unavailable
If the account is active or the username is protected, you have other options. Create a username that is close but distinct: add your location, profession, or a descriptor. Username_nyc, username_designs, or realusername all work if the base name is taken.
Use a period or underscore strategically. user.name and user_name look similar to username but are separate handles. Many accounts use these variations intentionally.
If you are building a business or creator account, the exact username matters less than consistency across platforms. Use the same handle on TikTok, YouTube, Twitter, and your website. Your audience will recognize your brand by your profile picture, bio, and content—not by whether your Instagram handle is exactly what you wanted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I request a username if the account has one old post from 2015?
No. Instagram requires zero posts for the account to be considered for release. Even a single post from years ago disqualifies it. The account must be completely blank except possibly for a username and bio.
How long does Instagram take to respond to a username request?
Responses typically arrive within two to four weeks, but can take longer. Instagram reviews requests manually, so timing varies. You will not receive a confirmation email when you submit—only a response if they approve or deny.
What if the account has a profile picture but no posts?
That account does not meet Instagram's inactivity standard. A profile picture counts as activity or customization. The account must be completely blank—no picture, no bio, no posts—to may have access to.
Can I message the account owner and ask them to release the username?
You can try if the account has contact information in the bio, but most inactive accounts do not respond. If both of you agree to a transfer, one person would need to delete their account entirely, then the other could claim the username when ready after. Instagram does not process transfers between existing accounts.
Is there a way to buy a username from someone who is using it?
No. Instagram does not allow username sales, trades, or transfers between active accounts under any circumstances. Services that claim to broker these deals are scams and will not deliver.