Facebook offers users the ability to change their Facebook ID to a unique username. This allows you to customize your profile URL and establish your personal brand on Facebook. Changing your Facebook ID to a username is a simple process that only takes a few minutes to complete.
What is the difference between a Facebook ID and username?
When you first create a Facebook account, you are automatically assigned a numerical Facebook ID as your profile URL (for example: facebook.com/profile.php?id=123456789). This ID number does not say anything about you or represent your brand.
A Facebook username is a unique name you can choose that replaces your numerical ID in your profile URL (for example: facebook.com/yourusername). This allows you to establish your personal brand and makes it easier for people to find and remember your profile.
Here are some key advantages of using a custom username:
- Allows you to brand yourself on Facebook – Your username can contain your name, business name, nickname or anything else that represents you.
- More recognizable than a number ID – A custom username is much more memorable.
- Looks more professional – Usernames project a more professional image than a random number ID.
- Improves discoverability – Usernames appear in search engines, allowing people to find your profile more easily.
Requirements for your Facebook username
When choosing a new Facebook username, there are a few requirements you need to keep in mind:
- Must be at least 5 characters long
- Must not contain any spaces
- Can only contain alphanumeric characters (A–Z, 0–9) and periods (.)
- Periods cannot be at the beginning or end of the username
- Cannot use any punctuation besides periods
- Cannot be the same as another user’s name or offensive terms
- Cannot be exclusively numeric (like 123456)
How to change your Facebook ID to a username
Changing your Facebook ID to a custom username only takes a few steps:
- Go to your Facebook profile page and click on the “About” section
- Find the username box underneath your name. This will currently display your Facebook ID number.
- Delete the ID number and type in your new desired username
- Click on the blue “Confirm Change” button
Facebook will check to make sure your selected username meets all the requirements and is not already in use. If it is available, your numerical ID will change to your new username immediately!
Tips for choosing your perfect username
Picking the right username involves creativity and strategy. Here are some tips:
- Use your real name or a version of it so people know it’s you.
- Incorporate your business name, brand or niche.
- Use keywords related to your work if you want to be searchable.
- Pick something memorable and catchy.
- Shorter is better – try to keep it under 15 characters.
- Be consistent across social media platforms.
Common questions about changing your Facebook username
How many times can you change your Facebook username?
You can change your username as many times as you want. However, there is a 60 day waiting period before you can change it again after making a change.
Does changing your username change your URL?
Yes, when you change your username, it automatically updates your profile URL from a numerical ID to your new username.
Can you revert back to your old Facebook ID?
Unfortunately no, once you change your ID to a username you cannot revert back to your old numerical ID. The only option is to change your username again.
What happens to your old profile URL?
Your old profile URL with your numerical ID will still work and redirect people to your new URL with your username. However, the old URL will not show any of your profile info.
Pros and cons of changing your Facebook username
Before taking the plunge and changing your Facebook ID, weigh the pros and cons:
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Mistakes to avoid when changing your Facebook username
To ensure a smooth transition, avoid these common mistakes:
- Don’t forget to update your username across all social media platforms for consistency.
- Don’t use obscure abbreviations that people may not understand.
- Don’t change usernames too frequently or it may look suspicious.
- Don’t use a username that does not clearly represent you or your brand.
- Don’t choose a username that is difficult to spell or pronounce.
Conclusion
Changing your Facebook ID to a custom username can help establish your brand and make it easier for people to find and engage with you on Facebook.
To recap how to change your Facebook ID to a username:
- Go to your profile and click “About”
- Find the username box and delete your ID number
- Type in your new desired username
- Click the “Confirm Change” button
Just follow Facebook’s username requirements, pick something memorable, and avoid common mistakes. Changing to a username gives you an opportunity to refine your personal brand on the world’s largest social network.