Changing your name in everyday life often means dealing with legal procedures, fees, and waiting periods. However, updating your name on social media platforms like Facebook is much simpler-just a few taps or clicks are all it takes. Whether you want to fix a typo, reflect a new married name, or add a preferred nickname, this guide will walk you through the process.
Here’s what you’ll discover:
- How to locate the name change settings on both mobile devices and desktop browsers.
- Step-by-step instructions for updating your name via the Facebook app and website.
- Important guidelines and restrictions, plus what to do if Facebook requests identity verification.
- Solutions for common issues like errors, limitations, and the difference between profile and Page name changes.
Before diving into the steps, consider these helpful pointers.
Essential reminders before updating your Facebook name
Before finalizing your new name, take a moment to verify everything to avoid unnecessary delays or rejections. Here are some key points to check:
Proofread carefully – Ensure your name is spelled correctly, including accents and spaces. Minor mistakes can look unprofessional and may lock you out of making changes for 60 days.
Check your last update – Facebook limits name changes to once every 60 days. Confirm you’re eligible to make a new change.
Have your ID ready – If Facebook asks for verification, prepare a clear, legible photo or scan of an accepted document. Use a steady hand or scanner and keep the file size manageable for uploading.
Consider adding alternate names – If you want to display a nickname, maiden name, or professional alias, add it under ‘Manage other names’ instead of changing your main profile name. This keeps your primary name consistent for login and recognition.
For Facebook Page administrators – Changing your personal profile name won’t update your Page’s name. You’ll need to submit a separate request in your Page’s settings under Page Info.
Review linked Meta accounts – If your Facebook is connected to other Meta services like Instagram, check the Accounts Center. Name changes may sync across platforms depending on your settings.
With these tips in mind, let’s explore how to update your name on mobile devices.
Step-by-step: Changing your Facebook name on mobile
Most users start on their phones, so here’s a clear, numbered guide to follow:
- Launch the Facebook app on your smartphone.
- Tap the Menu icon (bottom-right on iPhones, top-right on Android devices).
- Scroll down and select Settings & Privacy, then tap Settings.
- Go to Accounts Center, then tap Personal details and pick the Facebook profile you want to edit. If you also use Instagram or Threads, you’ll see those profiles here-choose Facebook.
- Tap on Name, enter your new first, middle (if applicable), and last names, then hit Review change or Save.
- If Facebook flags your name, follow the prompts to adjust formatting or provide verification.
Facebook’s naming rules on mobile and desktop: What’s allowed and what’s not
Keep in mind that Facebook applies the same naming policies across devices. Names can’t include unusual characters, titles, or excessive punctuation. If your name looks unusual, you might be asked to verify your identity.
- Use the name you’re commonly known by and that matches your official ID when possible.
- Avoid symbols, titles like “Dr.” or “Prof.”, and repeated punctuation marks.
- Add nicknames or other variations through the ‘Manage other names’ feature rather than altering your main name.
- Don’t attempt to change your name multiple times in quick succession; Facebook enforces waiting periods.
Pro tip: On smaller screens, autocorrect might insert unwanted characters. Double-check each name field for correct capitalization and spacing before saving.
How to update your Facebook name on desktop
Using a desktop browser offers a larger interface and spell-check tools, making it ideal for detailed edits, especially for complex names.
- Log into Facebook on your desktop.
- Click your profile picture or the dropdown arrow in the top-right corner.
- Select Settings & Privacy, then Settings.
- Navigate to Accounts Center or Personal Information depending on your layout, then select your profile.
- Click Name, enter your new name details, and click Review change or Save changes.
- If prompted, upload verification documents through the browser.
What happens if Facebook requests identity verification?
If your new name triggers a flag, Facebook may require you to submit proof of identity. This usually involves uploading a clear image or scan of an official document such as a passport, driver’s license, birth certificate, or legal name change certificate.
Facebook provides a list of acceptable documents and detailed instructions for submission. If your ID is rejected, consider these factors:
- Does the name on your ID exactly match the name you entered?
- Is the image clear, fully visible, and free of glare or cropping?
- Is the document type accepted by Facebook?
- Try submitting a higher-quality scan or a different valid document if needed.
Tips for preparing your ID to avoid verification issues
- Use a scanner app or a steady hand to capture a high-resolution photo showing all four corners.
- Minimize glare by adjusting the angle or lighting conditions.
- Crop the image to focus on the document without obscuring important details.
- If one document is rejected, try another accepted form like a passport or driver’s license.
Facebook’s verification page will guide you through the upload process.
Quick comparison: Changing your Facebook name on mobile vs. desktop
For those who prefer a quick overview, here’s a comparison table. However, if this is your first time changing your name, reading the detailed instructions above is recommended, especially if verification or waiting periods apply.
| Feature / Task | Mobile (Facebook App) | Desktop (Facebook.com) |
|---|---|---|
| Starting point | Open the app → Menu → Settings & Privacy → Settings → Accounts Center → Personal details → Name | Click profile photo or dropdown → Settings & Privacy → Settings → Accounts Center or Personal details → Profiles → Name |
| Navigation | Stacked, touch-friendly menus for quick swiping | Horizontal menus with more space and clarity |
| Editing experience | Smaller input fields, faster for quick fixes | Larger fields, better for detailed formatting and spell-check |
| Verification uploads | Upload photos directly from camera roll or files | Attach pre-scanned documents via browser |
| Preview before saving | Small preview below input fields | Full preview of public name display |
| Adding alternate names | Manage other names available in app | Manage other names accessible in profile settings |
| Linked Meta accounts | Changes may sync via Accounts Center | Same syncing with clearer linked profile overview |
| Speed and convenience | Quick for simple edits on the go | Better for thorough review and complex names |
Common issues when changing your Facebook name and how to resolve them
Error: “You can’t update your Facebook name because you were previously asked to confirm it.”
- Reason: Facebook has restricted changes due to a recent update, pending verification, or automated flagging.
- Solution: Verify when you last changed your name (must wait 60 days). If verification is pending, upload the required documents.
Error: “This name isn’t allowed.”
- Reason: The name violates formatting rules or Facebook’s policies (e.g., titles, special characters).
- Solution: Remove disallowed characters and resubmit. If your name is legitimate but unusual, be ready to verify with ID.
Issue: Profile name changed but Facebook Page still shows the old name.
- Reason: Pages have separate name change processes.
- Solution: Go to your Page’s Settings → Page Info → Name and submit a name change request for the Page.
Concern: Facebook requests ID and you worry about privacy.
- Reason: Verification is part of Facebook’s effort to maintain authentic accounts.
- Solution: Use the official upload process. Facebook details accepted IDs and explains data handling. Review their privacy policies if you have concerns.
Key takeaways
- Use the appropriate method for your device: access Accounts Center via Settings & Privacy to update your name securely.
- Always double-check spelling and formatting before saving, and ensure you’re outside the 60-day change window.
- Be prepared to provide valid ID if Facebook requests verification to finalize your name update quickly.
In summary,
Changing your Facebook name is straightforward once you know where to go and what to expect. Whether on mobile or desktop, you now understand the process, Facebook’s naming policies, and how to handle verification smoothly.
Before making changes, review your spelling, timing, and readiness. Then navigate to Settings & Privacy → Accounts Center → Personal details → Name and update your profile with confidence.
Now it’s your turn-go ahead and personalize your Facebook identity with ease.
Frequently Asked Questions about changing your Facebook name
1. How frequently can I update my Facebook name?
You can change your Facebook name once every 60 days.
2. Why am I unable to change my Facebook name?
Possible reasons include being within the 60-day waiting period, using disallowed characters or titles, or Facebook flagging your request for verification.
3. Can I use a nickname instead of my legal name?
Facebook encourages using your real name. However, you can add nicknames, maiden names, or stage names under the ‘Manage Other Names’ section.
4. Will changing my profile name affect my Facebook Page?
No, profile and Page names are managed separately. You must submit a separate name change request for your Page.
5. Is an ID required to change my Facebook name?
Only if Facebook requests it for identity verification.
6. Does changing my Facebook name impact my Instagram account?
It can, if your Facebook and Instagram accounts are linked through Meta’s Accounts Center and you have profile syncing enabled.