Annoyingly, Snapchat doesn't let you change your username. Once you've created your account for the first time, you are permanently stuck with whatever name you selected.

Officially, Snapchat cites "security reasons" for the restrictions. Frankly, it's more likely to be a case of poor design.

Regardless, there are still a couple of workarounds. So if you're desperate, check out these two methods for how to change your Snapchat username...

1. Change Your Snapchat Username by Making a New Account

If you want a new Snapchat username, the only method suggested by Snapchat is to simply delete your Snapchat account and create a fresh one. Given that Snapchat is struggling for users, recommending people to delete their accounts seems rash.

However, the workaround here is that you can transfer your Snapchat friends to your new account so that you don't have to start from scratch.

(Note: If you're not sure what you selected when you made your account, you can find your Snapchat username by tapping on your profile icon in the upper-left corner.)

To make a new account, navigate to accounts.snapchat.com, click on Create Account, and fill in the form. You can also make a new account on the Snapchat mobile app; log out of your old account and tap Sign Up on the welcome screen.

snapchat sign up

Whichever method you choose, make sure you enter your new preferred username. When you're ready, click Sign Up and Accept. Snapchat will send a code to your mobile phone to complete the process.

snapchat verify

Keep in mind that while the method works—you will end up with a username you like—you will lose all your other Snapchat data. That includes friend lists, memories, your best Snap streaks, trophies, awards, geo-filters, and anything else that is connected to your account. Only you can decide whether the tradeoff is worth it.

How to Migrate Snapchat Friends to a New Account

Even though Snapchat recommends making a new account, it still does not provide a way to migrate your friends over to your new profile.

There is no easy workaround. You'll need to make a note of all your friends' usernames (not their display names), then re-enter them into your new account once it's up and running. Yes, it is tedious, but it's the only way.

The best way to see all your friends in one place is to create a new chat. Scroll down to All, and you will see your connections listed in alphabetical order. Either take screenshots or use a pen and paper to keep a record of them.

2. How to Change Your Snapchat Display Name

In addition to your username, Snapchat also lets you choose a display name. Your display name is far more prominent in your Snapchat profile than your username, so it is an adequate workaround for most users.

You can change your display name as often as you like, and it will be visible to both your existing contacts and any new users you add.

To change your display name, follow the steps below:

  1. Tap on your profile picture in the top-left corner of the Snapchat app.
  2. Tap the Gear icon in the top right-hand corner of the new window.
  3. A new menu will appear. Select Name from the list of options.
  4. Enter your new preferred display name.
  5. Hit Save.

Your new name will be instantly visible across the Snapchat network, and it will show up in search results when other people look for it.

Does Your Snapchat User Name Even Matter?

Your Snapchat username is not something that is worth stressing over.

If you've used the platform for many years, you probably have hundreds of connections and thousands of chats. That almost never going to be worth sacrificing. Our suggestion is to just change your display name and forget your Snapchat username even exists.

Image Credit: TPOphoto/Depositphotos