Facebook name change: the 60-day limit and what names are allowed

What to do first

Check the date of your last change. If it was within 60 days, the option is blocked and you’ll have to wait. Also check what name you want against Facebook’s naming rules before you type it in, because a rejected request can start the wait too.

Step 1: Know what’s allowed

Facebook asks for the name you use in daily life, so that friends can find you. Its rules say a name can’t include symbols, numbers, unusual capitalisation, repeated characters or punctuation, characters from multiple languages, titles of any kind such as professional or religious ones, words or phrases in place of a name, or offensive words. Nicknames are fine when they’re a variation on your real name, such as Bob for Robert.

Step 2: Make the change

Open Settings, then Accounts Center, then Profiles, select your Facebook profile, and choose Name. Enter the first, middle and last name, review the preview, and save with your password. Facebook shows the date you’ll be allowed to change again.

Step 3: If it’s refused or locked

Facebook’s help page lists reasons a name can’t be changed, such as a recent change, a name that doesn’t follow the rules, or a review in progress. If your real name is written in a way the system rejects, you can use Facebook’s contact form and attach up to three documents that show the name. Accepted documents are the same types used for ID checks.

Step 4: Use a Page for brands

If you want a business name, a pen name or a brand identity, create a Facebook Page instead of putting it on your personal profile. A personal profile with a brand name can be asked to change it or be restricted.

What passes and what gets flagged

A few examples make the rules easier to apply. “Ana Maria Lopez” and “Ana Lopez” are both fine if you use either one in real life. “Dr. Ana Lopez” breaks the title rule. “Ana Lopez ✨” breaks the symbol rule. “AnaLopez” in odd capitals can be flagged. “Ana Lopez Photography” belongs on a Page, not a profile. If your legal name includes characters that look unusual in Latin script, you can keep them in one language; mixing scripts is what gets flagged.

If you’re known by a different name, such as a married name, a chosen name or a nickname, a profile can use it as long as it’s the name your friends and family know you by. Facebook may ask for documents that show that name if there’s a challenge.

What not to do

• Don’t use a fake or celebrity name. It’s an impersonation risk.
• Don’t add titles, emojis or symbols to look unique.
• Don’t change your name repeatedly while an ID check is pending.

After a change

Update your Messenger and Instagram connections, tell close friends so they recognise the new name, and expect a short delay before everything shows consistently.