A Comprehensive Guide to Changing Your Name on Facebook

Changing your name on Facebook can be a straightforward process, whether due to a legal name change, wanting to streamline how others find you, or simply personal preference. Below, we outline the various methods for updating your name on Facebook and summarize the platform’s specific name policies to ensure you’re informed before making the switch.

Understanding Facebook’s Name Change Policy

Before diving into the how-to, it’s important to familiarize yourself with Facebook’s name guidelines. Here are the key points:

• Multilingual Characters: Names containing characters from multiple languages are not accepted.
• Character Usage: Avoid unusual capitalization, numbers, symbols, or repetitive punctuation.
• Title Restrictions: Professional or religious titles are not allowed.
• Acceptable Variations: Nicknames, maiden names, or variations of your legitimate name are permitted.
• Language and Decency: Profanity or offensive language is prohibited.
• Identity Integrity: Impersonating another individual is against Facebook’s policies.
• Change Frequency: Users can only change their names once every 60 days.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Change Your Name on Facebook

Now that you’re aware of the guidelines, let’s go through the steps for changing your name across different platforms.

Changing Your Name on Mobile Devices (iOS and Android)

To change your name on the Facebook mobile app, follow these steps:

1. Log in to your Facebook account using your mobile device.
2. Tap on the three horizontal lines located at the bottom-right corner (the hamburger menu).
3. Select Settings & Privacy.
4. Tap on Settings.
5. In the Meta Accounts Center section, tap to open it.
6. Click on Profiles and select the profile you wish to modify.
7. Tap Name and input your new name.
8. Click on Review Changes and then Save Changes to finalize the modification.

Changing Your Name on Desktop

If you prefer using a desktop, use the following procedure:

1. Log into your Facebook account.
2. Click on your profile picture at the top right of the interface.
3. Select Settings & Privacy from the dropdown menu.
4. Click on Settings.
5. On the left sidebar, find the Accounts Center section and click to expand it.
6. Choose the profile you want to update.
7. Select Name and enter your new name.
8. Click Review Changes, then save the changes to complete the process.

Adding a Nickname on Facebook

Adding a nickname on your profile is allowed so long as it reflects a variant of your legal name. For example, you could use Kathy instead of Katherine. Here’s how to add a nickname:

1. Go to your profile by clicking on your profile picture.
2. Click on About on your profile page.
3. Select Details About You.
4. Click on Other Names to access fields for adding a nickname and choose if you want it displayed at the top of your profile.
5. Enter your nickname and click Save.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How Do I Change the Name on My Facebook Business Page?

Changing the name of a business page involves slightly different steps:

1. Log into Facebook and click on your profile picture in the upper right corner.
2. Select See All Profiles and choose the Page you want to edit.
3. Click on your Page picture.
4. Head to Settings & Privacy then select Settings.
5. Click on View and navigate to the General Page Settings, where you can click Edit.
6. Update your page name and choose Review Change.
7. You may need to re-enter your password.
8. Select Request Change.

Important Note: If you only have Task Access on a business page, you cannot change the name.

Why Can’t I Change My Name on Facebook?

If you’re experiencing difficulty changing your name, it could be due to several factors:

• Your proposed name might not comply with Facebook’s guidelines.
• Business page name changes may require specific permissions you might not possess.
• You can only change your name once every 60 days, so if your recent attempt falls within this window, you may need to wait.
• Facebook may require documentation to verify your identity, particularly for significant changes.

These security measures are designed to protect users from potential identity fraud issues.

Is There a Limit to Facebook Page Name Changes?

Currently, there’s no limit to how often you can change your Facebook page name, provided each change adheres to the once-per-60-day rule.

Facebook aims to create a secure user experience while allowing individuals the flexibility to manage their identity on the platform. If you’re considering a name change, ensure that you inspect the policies thoroughly to avoid any inconveniences.