Your name on Facebook is more than just a label — it represents your identity, brand, and first impression online. Many users search daily for how to change your name on Facebook step by step because they want to correct a spelling error, update their surname, rebrand professionally, or simply use the name people know them by in real life.
However, Facebook doesn’t always make this process straightforward. Many users complain that:
- Facebook rejects their name change
- They don’t see the edit option
- They changed their name recently and are now stuck
- Facebook says its name violates policy
If you’ve ever asked, “Why can’t I change my name on Facebook?”, you’re not alone.
Understanding Facebook’s Name Policy
Before you try to change your name, you need to understand Facebook’s name policy. Facebook wants users to use names that reflect how they are known in real life.
What Facebook Allows
Your Facebook name should be:
- Your real name or a variation of it
- The name friends call you in everyday life
- A professional name (if commonly used)
- A maiden or married name
Examples Facebook usually accepts:
- Miracle Uchenna
- Miracle John-Uchenna
- Rev. Godwin Edochie (if commonly used)
What Facebook Does NOT Allow
Facebook will reject names that include:
- Nicknames with symbols (e.g. Mir@cle)
- Titles like King, Queen, Dr., Sir (unless verified)
- Words instead of names (Blessed Child, Money King)
- All capital letters
- Emojis or special characters
- Business names on personal profiles
Important: If your name violates these rules, Facebook may block you from changing your name for a long time.
How to Change Your Name on Facebook Step by Step (Using Phone)
This is the most common method, especially for users in Nigeria. Simply follow the steps given below.
1. Open the Facebook App
- Launch the Facebook app on your Android or iPhone
- Make sure you are logged into the correct account
2. Go to Menu
- Tap the three horizontal lines (☰) at the top right (Android) or bottom right (iPhone)
3. Open Settings & Privacy
- Scroll down and tap Settings & Privacy
- Tap Settings
4. Go to Personal Details
- Under Accounts Center, tap Personal Details
- Tap Name
5. Edit Your Name
You’ll see three fields:
- First name
- Middle name (optional)
- Last name
Enter your new name carefully.
6: Review Change
- Tap Review Change
- Choose how your name will appear
- Enter your Facebook password
- Tap Save Changes
Done! Your new name will appear immediately or after review.
How to Change Your Name Using a Computer
If you prefer a laptop or desktop, follow these steps:
1: Visit Facebook
- Go to Facebook and log in.
2: Open Settings
- Click your profile picture (top right)
- Click Settings & Privacy
- Click Settings
3: Personal Information
- Click Accounts Center
- Click Personal Details
- Click Name
4: Enter New Name
- Type your new name correctly.
5: Confirm
- Click Review Change
- Enter your password
- Click Save Changes
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How Often Can You Change Your Facebook Name?
Facebook allows you to change your name once every 60 days.
Important Rules:
- You cannot change your name again for 60 days
- If you change it too many times, Facebook may block future changes
- Fake or misleading names increase the risk of permanent restriction
Tip: Be 100% sure before saving your new name.
Why Facebook Won’t Let You Change Your Name (Common Reasons)
- You Changed It Recently
If it hasn’t been 60 days since your last change, Facebook will block you.
- Your Name Breaks Facebook Rules
Using symbols, emojis, titles, or fake names triggers rejection.
- You’re Changing It Too Often
Frequent name changes look suspicious to Facebook’s system.
- Account Is Restricted
If your account has:
- Policy violations
- Suspicious activity
- Identity issues
- Facebook may disable name editing.
Facebook may disable name editing.
- Poor Internet Connection
Sometimes, the option doesn’t load properly.
What to Do If Facebook Rejects Your Name Change
If Facebook refuses your request, don’t panic.
Solution 1: Use a Simpler Version
Remove:
- Titles
- Emojis
- Extra words
Use plain first and last name.
Solution 2: Wait 60 Days
Sometimes waiting is the only solution.
Solution 3: Submit ID Verification
If Facebook asks for identity confirmation:
- Upload a government-issued ID
- Ensure name matches the ID
- Follow on-screen instructions
Examples of accepted IDs:
- National ID (NIN slip or card)
- International Passport
- Driver’s License
Solution 4: Use the Facebook Name Appeal Form
Facebook may provide a form to explain your name change.
Can You Use a Nickname on Facebook?
Yes, but carefully.
Facebook allows nicknames only if:
- It looks like a real name
- Friends recognize you by it
Better approach:
- Use real name as main name
- Add nickname in “Other Names” section
How to Add a Nickname Without Changing Your Main Name
Steps:
- Go to your profile
- Click About
- Click Details About You
- Scroll to Other Names
- Add nickname
- Set visibility to Public or Friends
This keeps you compliant and searchable.
How to Change Your Facebook Name After Marriage
Many people change their surname after marriage.
Best format:
- First Name + Married Surname
- Or First Name + Maiden-Married (Hyphenated)
Example:
- Miracle Uchenna-Adoma
Facebook usually approves this easily.
Changing Facebook Name for Branding or Ministry
If you are:
- A pastor
- A content creator
- A public speaker
Use:
- Your real name
- A commonly known variation
Avoid turning personal profiles into business names. Use a Facebook Page instead.
Difference Between Facebook Profile Name and Page Name
| Feature | Profile | Page |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Personal identity | Business/Brand |
| Name Rules | Strict | Flexible |
| Change Limit | 60 days | Anytime |
| Emojis | Not allowed | Allowed |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- How long does Facebook take to approve a name change?
Usually instant, but sometimes up to 24–72 hours.
- Can I change my Facebook name without ID?
Yes, if it follows rules and isn’t suspicious.
- Why does Facebook keep rejecting my name?
It likely violates policy, or you changed recently.
- Can I use initials on Facebook?
Yes, if it looks natural (e.g., M. Uchenna).
- Will my friends be notified?
No official notification, but they’ll see the new name.
Conclusion
Understanding how to change your name on Facebook step by step makes the process easy and stress-free. As long as your name follows Facebook’s rules and you wait the required 60 days between changes, you won’t face rejection. Take your time, choose a name that truly represents you, and update your Facebook profile with confidence.
Whether you’re correcting a mistake, rebranding, or updating your identity, this guide has shown you how to go about it without getting blocked or rejected.
Take your time, choose the right name, and always follow Facebook’s policy to avoid future restrictions. If you found this guide helpful, feel free to share it with someone struggling to change their Facebook name.