How to Change Your Name on Facebook: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide ( 2025 )
How to Change Your Name on Facebook: Changing your name on Facebook can help you present a more professional image or simply update your online identity. Whether you’re transitioning after a legal name change, adjusting your profile for a new career, or just tidying up your digital presence, the process is straightforward. Here’s a clear and professional guide to help you through the process.
Why Change Your Name on Facebook?
Before you make any changes, consider why you want to update your name. Your name is an important part of your identity—it tells your story and how others recognize you online. Some common reasons include:
- Professional Branding: Switching to your legal or commonly used name for work-related networking.
- Personal Changes: Reflecting a legal name change, marriage, or other personal updates.
- Clarity: Eliminating nicknames or outdated monikers that no longer represent who you are.
Take a moment to reflect on your choice, ensuring that your new name will be both recognizable to friends and professional contacts alike.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Change Your Facebook Name
For Mobile Devices
How to change your name on facebook on iphone:
- Open the Facebook app and tap the three horizontal lines at the bottom of the screen.
- Scroll down, tap Settings & Privacy, and then select Settings.
- Under Account Settings, tap Personal and Account Information and then Name.
- Enter your new name following Facebook’s guidelines (use your real name, avoid special characters or titles).
- Review your changes, re-enter your password to confirm, and tap Save Changes.
How to change your name on facebook on android
- Open the Facebook app and tap the three horizontal lines at the top right corner.
- Scroll down to Settings & Privacy and tap Settings.
- Under Account Settings, go to Personal Information and then tap Name.
- Input your new name, ensuring you follow the same guidelines as for the iPhone.
- Confirm the changes by re-entering your password, then tap Save Changes.
For Desktop
- Log into your Facebook account and click your profile picture in the top-right corner.
- Select Settings & Privacy and then click Settings.
- On the left side, choose Personal Information. Under the Name section, click Edit.
- Enter your new name, following Facebook’s naming rules (your authentic name, without unnecessary symbols or titles).
- Click Review Changes, check that everything is correct, re-enter your password, and click Save Changes.
Important Points to Consider
- Facebook’s 60-Day Rule: After you change your name, you won’t be able to change it again for 60 days. Make sure your new name is final.
- Consistency Across Platforms: If you use other social media accounts (LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter), consider updating those profiles as well to maintain a professional and consistent image.
- Privacy Settings: Remember that your new name will make you more searchable. Review your privacy settings if you prefer to keep some parts of your profile private.
- Profile Updates: Along with your name, update your profile picture and other details (like your bio or contact information) to match your new identity.
Final Thoughts
Changing your name on Facebook is more than just a cosmetic update—it’s a step towards aligning your online presence with your current identity. By following these simple instructions, you can confidently make the change while ensuring that your profile reflects who you truly are. Whether you’re rebranding for professional reasons or making a personal update, a well-managed Facebook profile can help you connect more effectively with your network.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often can I change my name on Facebook?
Facebook enforces a 60-day limit between name changes. Once you update your name, you must wait 60 days before making another change to ensure consistency and prevent abuse.
What types of names are allowed on Facebook?
Facebook requires that you use your authentic, real-life name. Avoid using nicknames, symbols, unusual punctuation, or titles (e.g., “Dr.” or “Prof.”) that aren’t part of your legal name. This policy is in place to maintain trust and transparency across the platform.
How do I change my name on Facebook using a mobile device?
For iPhone:
Open the Facebook app and tap the three horizontal lines at the bottom.
Go to Settings & Privacy, then Settings.
Tap Personal and Account Information > Name.
Enter your new name, review the changes, re-enter your password, and tap Save Changes.
For Android:
Open the Facebook app and tap the three horizontal lines at the top right corner.
Navigate to Settings & Privacy, then Settings.
Tap Personal Information > Name.
Input your new name, confirm with your password, and save the changes.
How do I change my name on Facebook using a desktop computer?
Log in to your Facebook account and click on your profile picture in the top-right corner.
Select Settings & Privacy, then Settings.
On the left-hand side, click Personal Information.
Under the Name section, click Edit, enter your new name, and follow the prompts to review and confirm your change.
