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Reddit generally does not allow changing usernames after account creation.
New users with Google or Apple sign-up might get a one-time chance to choose a custom username.
The only workaround to change a Reddit username is to create a new account.
Reddit is a vibrant community of millions, where users often navigate the balance between privacy and public visibility. But what happens when a user's username no longer reflects their online identity? Unlike Instagram or Twitter, Reddit has strict rules about username changes, which may surprise many users. Understanding these rules is key to managing one's online presence on the platform.
The official position from Reddit is clear: usernames are generally permanent once chosen. That means the moment a Reddit account is created with a username — either manually or via third-party sign-in — it is set for life.
One important thing is different, though. People who sign up through Google, Apple, or other third-party services might be given a nickname like Traditional_Cat9473, which is made up of the system. Reddit gives these people a one-time chance to choose a custom name, but only if there have been no posts, comments, or upvotes.
There's no going back once that chance is lost.
Not at all. Reddit does not allow changing, editing, or adjusting a nickname once it is set. This applies to all users, even if the username was created years ago and no longer feels relevant.
The reason has to do with how Reddit is set up. Users' names are linked to their account history, reputation, post history, and jobs as moderators. Actually changing them, there would be an inconsistency between posts and subreddits, which would make the site less useful for archiving.
Also read: Reddit vs. Other Platforms: Why It’s Better for Marketing
Users who want to change their identity must make a new Reddit account because they can not modify their username. This means starting over (with no karma and no comment history), but it gives a fresh start.
Here’s how to do it:
Log out of the current account.
Visit www.reddit.com.
Click Sign Up.
Use an email or third-party service (Google, Apple, etc.).
Choose a new, desired username.
Customize the new profile.
Tip: If important posts or articles are linked to a previous account, it may be worth preserving or manually copying them to a new account.
This is a hot subject on Reddit. A lot of users have asked for the option to change their brand, especially after using the site for a while. But the fact that Reddit is committed to openness and responsibility, especially in community control, probably helps keep usernames the same.
Even though it may be annoying, it's part of what keeps Reddit's organisation and consistency.
Reddit fails to make it easy to change the nickname like some other sites do, but this is on purpose. Reddit puts a high value on openness, accuracy in archives, and group organisation. If seeking a new online name, the best thing to do is make a new Reddit account.
A new username will not remove old posts, but it will give it a new point of view and the chance to come back to Reddit with a fresh mind.
Also read: Reddit Launches AI Tool to Revolutionize Search and Engagement
