When creating a Facebook page, choosing an appropriate username is an important decision. The username, along with the page name, are the two main identifiers for your page on Facebook. Facebook has specific rules and guidelines regarding what types of usernames are allowed. Here is a quick overview of what is eligible for a Facebook page username.
General Username Guidelines
Facebook allows usernames between 5 and 50 characters. Usernames can consist of letters, numbers, periods, underscores and hyphens. Facebook recommends keeping usernames simple and easy to remember.
Usernames are unique on Facebook. Once a username is taken, no other page can use it. Facebook will append numbers if someone tries to create a duplicate username. For example, if “techcompany” is taken, the next user would get “techcompany2” as their username.
Usernames should accurately represent the Page or brand name. Avoid using unrelated words or phrases just to get a specific username. Facebook may remove Pages that violate their policies around impersonation, trademarks and other community standards.
Reserved Usernames
There are certain phrases and formats that are restricted from use in Facebook usernames. These include:
- fb
- any variations of “facebook” like faceb00k, facebookofficial, etc.
- admin
- support
- page
- pages
- profile
- news
- newsfeed
Trying to set any of these as a username will result in an error message. These are reserved by Facebook to avoid brand impersonation or confusion.
Unique Identifiers
To help users identify and find pages, Facebook recommends using a unique identifier in the username. This is especially important for businesses, brands, organizations and public figures.
Some examples of unique identifiers include:
- Business or brand name
- Product name
- Organization or group name
- Public figure’s full name
Avoid generic terms like “marketing”, “social media” or “fashion” as these make your page difficult to search for and identify. The unique name immediately tells users what your page is about.
Location Information
For local businesses and organizations, adding location information can help users find your Facebook page. This is especially useful if your brand name does not indicate location or if you have multiple locations.
Some examples include:
- City name – seattlegelato, miamisurfshop
- Area of city – downtownbakery, eastsideyoga
- State abbreviation – capitolretailTX, centralhighschoolNC
Keep in mind that adding location details may limit your ability to expand your page outside of that area in the future. But for local entities, it can help reinforce where you are located and improve discoverability.
Words to Avoid
There are certain words and phrases that should generally be avoided in Facebook usernames. These include:
- Trademarked terms for brands you are not affiliated with
- Offensive, abusive or inappropriate language
- Violent, dangerous or illegal content
- Misleading or false information
- Affiliations like “official” or “fans” without authorization
Facebook wants to provide a safe and trusted environment for users. Usernames that include these types of words or phrases may be removed. Make sure your username adheres to Facebook’s Community Standards and Terms of Service.
Tips for Changing Usernames
Facebook allows pages to change their username once every 28 days. If you want to change it, here are some tips:
- Double check the spelling and formatting before changing.
- Update your profile and cover photos to match the new username.
- Inform followers of the change through posts, stories and off-Facebook marketing.
- Create redirects from old username to help people find new profile.
- Change @username mentions across Facebook and Instagram.
Changing the username too frequently or drastically can confuse followers. But periodic updates to streamline or refine your identifier can help keep the username relevant.
Promoting Your Username
Once you’ve chosen the perfect username, you’ll want to promote it so people can easily find your Facebook page. Here are some ideas:
- Include the @username in your page description.
- Add it to your other social media profiles and marketing materials.
- Create an easy to remember custom URL with the username.
- Ask followers to tag your page using the @username.
- Register the username as a domain if available.
Consistent use of your unique username across Facebook and other channels makes it easier for interested users to locate your page and brand.
Conclusion
Facebook page usernames should be representative, unique, and consistent with Facebook’s policies. Choosing an appropriate identifier makes it simpler for your target audience to find and engage with your page. Consider your brand, locations, and language guidelines when selecting a username. Promote it widely once established to maximize discoverability. With an optimized Facebook page username, you can build stronger connections with the people you most want to reach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use emojis in my Facebook page username?
No, Facebook does not allow the use of emojis or special characters in page usernames at this time. Usernames can only include numbers, letters, periods, hyphens and underscores.
What happens if I want an already taken username?
Facebook usernames must be unique. If you try to create an account with an already claimed username, Facebook will append a number to the end, such as “techcompany123”. It’s best to brainstorm alternative name options rather than use an already taken name.
Can I change my Facebook username?
Yes, page owners can change the username for a Facebook page once every 28 days. This allows businesses to refine their identifier over time if needed. Be aware changing usernames too frequently may confuse existing followers.
Should my Facebook username match my Instagram username?
Ideally, yes – having consistent usernames across Facebook and Instagram makes it easier for audiences to connect with you across multiple platforms. If the preferred name is taken on one platform, variations like adding your business name or location can help link accounts.
Is there a character limit for Facebook usernames?
Facebook allows page usernames between 5 and 50 characters. Shorter usernames are easier to remember and type, but longer names allow more specificity. Just be sure to stay within the 5-50 character limit.
Facebook Username Policy Examples
Here are some examples of Facebook page usernames that adhere to or violate Facebook’s policies:
| Username | Adheres to Policy? | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| BestBurgersDenver | Yes | Clear brand name with location |
| NorthCoastSurfboards | Yes | Brand name with region identifier |
| FacebookOfficialFans | No | Uses Facebook branding without authorization |
| YahooNews | No | Uses trademarked name without affiliation |
| PhillyCheesesteak$$ | Yes | Location with generic name is allowed |
| IllegalBusinessPage | No | Promotes illegal activities |
Facebook aims to balance the ability for pages to create useful, identifying usernames with the need to protect users and brands. Following Facebook’s policies helps ensure your username will be allowed on the platform.
Tips for Creating a Facebook Username
Here are some key tips for coming up with an ideal Facebook page username:
- Brainstorm multiple name options before deciding
- Make it representative of your brand or entity
- Check username availability before finalizing
- Add location or descriptors if needed for identification
- Avoid restricted words like “Facebook” or “official”
- Keep it simple and easy to remember
- Use consistent username across Facebook and Instagram
- Take advantage of one free change every 28 days
With a bit of planning, you can create a Facebook username that complies with policies, resonates with your audience, and helps attract more ideal followers.
How to Check Facebook Page Username Availability
Here are the steps to check if a desired username is available for a new Facebook page:
- Go to Facebook.com and click “Create New Page”
- Select the category that best fits your page
- Type your preferred username into the field provided
- If the name is taken, a red “X” will appear next to it
- Modify the username until you get a green checkmark indicator
- Once an available name is found, proceed with making the page
You can also check username availability when converting an existing profile to a page. Following these simple steps will ensure you secure the ideal available username for your Facebook presence.
Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Username
Here are some common mistakes people make when selecting a Facebook page username that you’ll want to avoid:
- Using a generic term like “marketing” that is difficult to search for
- Selecting an overly broad location identifier like “EastCoastShop”
- Including words like “official” or “fanpage” that are restricted
- Misspelling your brand name or location
- Copying another business’s name or trademarks
- Changing usernames too frequently which confuses followers
- Using usernames that violate Facebook’s terms of service
- Forgetting to check availability before finalizing
- Neglecting to secure username matches on other social platforms
Avoiding these missteps when going through the username selection process will set your Facebook presence up for maximum discoverability and success.
Username Ideas for Different Industries
Ideal usernames can take many different forms based on your niche and target audience. Here are username examples for different business industries:
Restaurants & Cafes
CityCafe, EastCoastEatery, TastyBurgers, Beachfood55, DenverDonuts
Retail & Ecommerce
AccessoryHub, NWOutdoorGear, CoastalHomeShop, AustinClothingCo, CityThriftStore
Professional Services
SmithDentalPractice, FirstAccountingLLC, AplusTutoringAgency, TotalWellnessMassage
Entertainment & Media
PhillyMusicScene, SVPhotography, PacificNorthwestPodcast, NYCFoodCritic
Nonprofits & Causes
AnimalRescueCalifornia, HelpTheHomelessDC, CleanOceanProject, EducationReformInitiative
Brainstorming industry-relevant keywords and geo-locators can help generate ideas suited to your particular niche and audience.
Conclusion
Facebook page usernames represent an important element of your brand’s identity and discoverability. Choosing one that aligns with Facebook’s policies while resonating with your followers takes forethought and care. Avoid restricted terms, impersonation, and violating trademarks. Include unique descriptors tailored to your target users. Check availability for your preferred name prior to selecting. With a username that adheres to Facebook guidelines and meets the needs of your audience, you’ll be off to a strong start on the platform.