How to Change Your Reddit Username in 2025

Ever created a Reddit account in a hurry and ended up with a weird username like Throwaway_34567 or User123abc? Don’t worry—you’re not alone. Thousands of Redditors regret their first username choice, and one of the most common questions online is:

“Can I change my Reddit username?”

The short answer is: sometimes, but with strict rules.

In this guide, we’ll break down:

• Reddit’s official username change policy (what you can and cannot do).
• A step-by-step process (mobile + desktop) if you’re eligible.
• Alternatives if you can’t change your username.
• Tips for choosing a memorable, professional username.
• Mistakes to avoid so you don’t regret later.
• FAQs + real user examples.

This isn’t just a quick tutorial—it’s an authoritative, researched, user-friendly guide that clears every doubt, written in a style similar to Neil Patel’s blogs.

Can You Really Change a Reddit Username? (Official Policy Explained)

Here’s the truth: Reddit usernames are permanent for most users. Once you pick one, you can’t change it.

The only exception:

• If you created your account using Apple ID, Google, or a temporary login, Reddit assigns you a placeholder username (like throwaway_xxyyzz).
• When you log in for the first few times, Reddit may give you one opportunity to change that placeholder to a permanent username.
• After that, your username is locked forever.

Display Name vs Username (Common Confusion)

• Username: Permanent, part of your Reddit profile URL (e.g., reddit.com/u/YourName).
• Display Name: Optional. It appears under your avatar and can be changed anytime.

👉 Many users think they “changed username” when actually they only edited the display name.

Authority Check: Reddit’s Help Center confirms that usernames are permanent, except for temporary accounts.

Step-by-Step Guide to Change Username (If Eligible)

If you’re lucky enough to have a temporary username, here’s how to change it before it gets locked forever.

On Reddit Mobile App (iOS / Android)

1. Open the Reddit app.
2. Tap your profile icon in the top-left corner.
3. Go to My Profile.
4. Reddit will prompt: “Would you like to change your username?”
5. Enter your new username.
6. Check availability (Reddit won’t allow duplicates).
7. Confirm → Once saved, it’s permanent.

On Desktop (Reddit Web)

1. Log in to your Reddit account.
2. Click on your profile avatar (top-right).
3. Go to Profile.
4. If eligible, Reddit will ask if you want to change username.
5. Enter new name → Save → Permanent.

Pro Tip: Don’t rush. Once confirmed, you cannot edit or undo it.

What If You Can’t Change Your Username? (Alternatives)

Don’t be disappointed—most Reddit users can’t change usernames either. Here’s what you can do instead:

1. Create a New Account

• Pros: Fresh start, new username of your choice.
• Cons: You lose karma, history, and awards.

2. Use a Display Name

• Add a professional or fun display name to your profile.
• Example: Username: tech_guy_77, Display Name: SEO Expert Kartik.

3. Transfer Subscriptions Manually

• If you create a new account, re-subscribe to your favorite subreddits.
• Unfortunately, you can’t transfer karma or posts.

What Happens After Changing / Creating a Username?

Many users worry about losing data. Here’s the reality:

• If you change a temporary username → Account remains same, posts & karma stay intact.
• If you create a new account → Old karma, history, and awards stay behind.
• Your profile URL changes → Share new link if people follow you.

Caution: Some subreddits may not allow brand-new accounts to post immediately (to prevent spam).

Tips for Choosing a Perfect Reddit Username

A username is your online identity. Whether you’re browsing memes, discussing tech, or building a personal brand—it matters.

Here are proven tips:

✅ Keep it short & simple – Easier to remember.
✅ Avoid personal info – Don’t use real name, birthdate, or phone numbers.
✅ Stay on-topic – If you’re into crypto, CryptoWizard works better than PizzaLover999.
✅ Think long-term – Don’t pick something childish you’ll regret in 2 years.
✅ Check availability across platforms – Consistency helps branding.

Tool: Use Namechk to see if your username is free on other platforms too.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Using offensive words – May lead to account suspension.
❌ Copying brand names – Can cause copyright or trademark issues.
❌ Adding random numbers – Looks unprofessional.
❌ Trusting third-party tools – No tool can “unlock” a username change.

Reddit Username FAQs

Q1. Can I change my Reddit username after creating an account?
No. Once finalized, usernames are permanent—unless you had a temporary one from Google/Apple sign-up.

Q2. Will I lose karma if I make a new account?
Yes. Karma, posts, comments, and awards do not transfer.

Q3. Can I change my username on the Reddit app?
Yes, but only if eligible (temporary username). Otherwise, you can only edit your display name.

Q4. Is display name same as username?
No. Display name is cosmetic (editable anytime). Username is permanent and part of your profile URL.

Q5. What if the username I want is already taken?
You’ll need to choose a variation. Reddit doesn’t allow inactive usernames to be claimed.

Real-Life Example

When Rahul signed up using Apple ID, Reddit gave him throwaway_a7x9. He changed it once to TechExplorer and locked it forever.

But his friend, Priya, created her account directly with email and username. She’s stuck with Priya1998 forever—unless she makes a new account.

Conclusion

Reddit usernames are permanent—most people can’t change them. But if you’re new with a temporary name, grab the chance before it’s gone.

Best practices:

• Choose a future-proof, brand-safe username.
• If stuck, use the display name or start fresh with a new account.
• Avoid scams and shortcuts—stick to Reddit’s official methods.

Your username is your digital identity. Choose wisely.

Bonus: Want to Build a Stronger Online Brand Beyond Reddit? 🚀

Changing your Reddit username is only the first step. If you’re serious about building a professional online presence, you need to think bigger—SEO, website design, and digital marketing.

At Calm Coders, we help individuals and businesses create powerful digital identities:

• Custom websites
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• Social media branding

👉 Ready to grow your online brand? Contact Calm Coders today