How to change Twitch username

Usernames are unique taglines that are tied to a specific account. On most platforms that include user interactions such as Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, Reddit, and in this case Twitch, usernames are tied to only one account. This means that one username cannot be used on more than one account.

A username is like a primary key that sets your records apart from those of others. Twitch has enabled its users to change the usernames of their accounts. Since this may not be as easy or as straightforward for most people, this article is going to guide you on how to change your username on Twitch. Before that, here’s what you should know.

You should know

1. Usernames work on a first-come, first-serve basis; whoever gets its first uses it.
2. When registering your account, Twitch checks the availability of the username you desire. If it exists, they tell you to come up with another.
3. Once you change your Twitch username, the URL you were using for your channel will become inactive. It will not redirect people to your account (because of the new username) so you need to update it.
4. If a username is not active for at least 12 months, Twitch frees it up. It can then be chosen by another person who desires to use it.
5. You can change your username once every 60 days.
6. You need to have a verified email to be able to change your username.
7. Changing your username takes effect almost immediately.
8. If you have a username that is hard to pronounce or has numbers and letters sandwiched together, you should change it. This will help viewers find your channel easily.
9. If you recently joined Twitch, you will have to wait for 2 months to change it.
10. Also, you cannot change your username through the app. You must be on a PC.

Changing it

The steps to change your username are quite easy:

1. On your Windows, Mac, or Linux, visit Twitch’s website.
2. Log in to your account using your username and password.
3. Click on your profile’s avatar on the top-right corner of the page.
4. On the displayed menu, click on ‘Settings’. This will open you up to the ‘Settings’ screen. The "Profile" tab will open up.
5. Scroll down to "Profile Settings". From there, you can change the identifying details for your account.
6. If you are eligible to change it, you will see a pencil icon next to the "Username" section. Click on it. A "Change your Username" screen will appear.
7. Enter the username you want to use. Twitch will check its availability. If the username has not been taken, a green tick will show next to it. On the same screen, you will see your new channel URL. Click the ‘Update’ button.
8. You will be asked to enter your Twitch password to confirm the changes. Your new username will start to show on your profile.

You should also know

If you change to a new username, your old username will be abandoned. Twitch will then hold it for at least 6 months. Twitch may then decide to throw it back on the list of available usernames so that anyone who desires it picks it.

Since you can’t change it too often, take time before you decide on your username. Have in mind that you use your username left more often than your viewers and followers do.

Choose a username that will be easy to remember, type, and pronounce.