How to Change the Name on Facebook: 7 Steps to Follow

Jul 10, 2025 - 12:22
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Sometimes, people want to switch their name on Facebook. It could be after marriage, for fun, or just to match how theyre known in real life. If youre thinking the same, dont worry. Changing your name on Facebook isnt hard. You just need to follow a few steps, and its done.

In this post, well show you the easiest way how to change the Name on Facebook. Its written in simple words so anyone can follow it without confusion.

1. First, Pick the Name You Want

Before doing anything, decide which name you want to show on your profile. Facebook allows a first name, and last name or a full name that looks like a real persons name. You cant use symbols, numbers, or fake stuff. Also, avoid nicknames that dont look real.

Check the spelling. Make sure it looks right. This name will be seen by people when they visit your profile. So, take a moment to double-check it.

2. Open the Facebook App or Website

You can change your name from the Facebook app or by going to the Facebook website. Both work the same way. Pick what you use most. If youre using a phone, open the Facebook app. Additionally, for a laptop or a desktop, navigate to Facebook in a browser.

3. Go to Settings

Once youre logged in, look for the menu. On mobile, its the three lines at the top or bottom. On the website, its in the top-right corner. Tap or click it.

Then scroll down and find the Settings & privacy section. Tap it. After that, tap on Settings.

This will take you to your account settings page.

4. Tap on Personal Details

Now that youre in settings, look for the part that says Personal and account information. Its where Facebook keeps your basic info. Tap on it.

Youll see a list of things like name, phone number, email, and birthday.

Tap the first one. It should say Name. Thats where youll go next.

5. Enter the New Name

Youll get the three blank boxes on the screen

1. one for first name,

2. one for middle name (optional),

3. And, last one for last name.

Type the new name in the right boxes. You can leave the middle one empty if you dont want to use it.

Take your time. Make sure everything looks the way you want it. Capitalise the first letters. Dont add anything extra like emojis or strange marks.

6. Preview How It Looks

Before saving, Facebook shows you a preview. It helps you see how your name will appear on your profile.

Look at the example of your name, which you want to change.

Is it how you want it? If not, go back and fix it.

Once youre done with it, you can move to the next step.

7. Enter Your Password

To keep your account safe, you have to type your password before saving any changes. This stops random people from changing your details.

Type your password in the box and press the save button.

Youre Done!

After that, Facebook will change your name. It may take a few minutes to show up everywhere.

Also, remember you cant change your name again for 60 days. So, be sure before pressing the final button.

Why Some Names Dont Work

Sometimes, Facebook doesnt allow certain names. If you get an error, it could be because:

  • The name has numbers or symbols

  • The name looks fake or silly

  • The name is all in lowercase or uppercase

  • Youve changed it too many times before

If this happens, try a different version of the name. Make it simple and real-looking. It should match what people usually call you.

Proof May Be Needed

In some cases, Facebook might ask for ID. This happens if your name change looks strange or doesnt match your account details.

Dont worry. You can use a photo of a government ID like a drivers license or Aadhaar card (if youre in India). Make sure the name and photo are clear.

Facebook checks it and then updates your name once they confirm its real.

Bonus Tip: Nickname Option

Dont want to change your full name? Just want to show a fun name or short name?

Theres another way. Go back to settings, then tap Name again. Look for the option that says Add other names or Add nickname.

This lets you show a second name on your profile without changing the real one. It shows up in brackets next to your name, like: Ravi Sharma (Raj).

Conclusion

Now you know how to change the name on Facebook. Its not tricky. Just follow each step one by one, and youre done in a few minutes. This guide works on Android, iPhone, and computers.

Always pick a name thats simple and true. Dont try anything that might look strange or fake.