Choosing the right username on Twitch is important, as it becomes your unique identity on the platform and provides a fresh start for your social media strategy. You may want to change your username for several reasons, whether you’re rebranding, your interests have evolved, or you’ve simply outgrown your current username.
Regardless of the reason, knowing how to change your Twitch username can breathe new life into your streaming journey, and making sure it adheres to Twitch’s standards to maintain a positive and inclusive community.
Twitch offers flexibility with two distinct types of names, including the username for logging in to your channel’s URL and the display name for how your name appears to viewers. This article will guide you through the process of how to change your Twitch username so you can get the best benefits on this platform.
Prerequisites Before Changing Twitch Username
Before changing your Twitch username, it’s important to be aware of some prerequisites to ensure a smooth transition. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Verified Email Requirement: To change your Twitch username, your account must have a verified email address. This ensures that Twitch can communicate with you during the process and for any related needs.
Username Hold Period: After changing your username, Twitch holds onto the old username for a minimum of 6 months. This is a security measure to prevent impersonation and maintain account integrity.
Limitation Time Period: You can change your username once every 60 days. This limitation helps maintain consistency and prevents confusion among your viewer base.
Impact on Partners: Changing your username will not affect your revenue streams if you are a Twitch Partner. However, updating your username across any external platforms or marketing materials is essential to match your new Twitch identity.
Username Recycling for Partners: The old username will not be recycled back into the available pool for Twitch Partners. This policy helps protect the brand and identity that Partners has built.
Note for Affiliates and Partners: Changing your username will not change your ticket product name, which is used in the URL and directly links to your subscription page.
Restrictions During Broadcasts and Uploads: You cannot change your username while you are actively broadcasting, and the process will not go through if there is an active VOD (Video on Demand) upload pending. Ensure you are not live and have no pending uploads before attempting to change your username.
These prerequisites, outlined in Twitch’s username rename and recycling policies, are designed to protect users and maintain the platform’s integrity. By following these guidelines, you can navigate the username change process effectively and continue building your presence on Twitch.
Step-by-Step Guide to Change Your Twitch Username
Changing your Twitch username is a straightforward process that can be completed in just a few steps. Whether you’re on a desktop or mobile, here’s how you can update your Twitch identity:
On Desktop
Step 1: Open https://www.twitch.tv/ in your preferred web browser.
Step 2: Click on your Profile icon at the top-right corner of the screen, then select “Settings” from the dropdown menu.
Step 3: In the Settings menu, click on the “Profile” tab to access your account information.
Step 4: Scroll down to the “Profile Settings” section, where you can change your username. Enter the new username you wish to use. Note that the username you want might already be taken, or it could be available. Twitch will indicate the availability as you type.
Step 5: Once you’ve entered an available username, click “Save Changes” to update your profile.
On Mobile
The process for changing your Twitch username on mobile is more straightforward:
Step 1: Open the Twitch app and tap on your profile picture.
Step 2: Navigate to account settings, then click on “Account.”
Step 3: Under Account, click on “Edit Profile” to change your current Twitch name and Twitch channel URL or just the display name (without the URL).
Step 4: While updating your desired username, it may already be taken or available. Click “Update” to save the changes if the username is available.
What to Do if Your Desired Twitch Username is Taken?
You find that your desired Twitch username is taken or not available. In that case, the best solution is to monitor the Twitch username using our handle monitor tool – an innovative tool designed to help you keep an eye on specific usernames you need to monitor across Twitch platforms and notify you instantly when they become available.
This tool is the perfect way to stay ahead and secure your desired username without checking manually and frequently. It saves time and increases your chances of getting your preferred username once it becomes available.
Frequently Asked Question
Does any Usernames Violate Twitch Username Guidelines?
Yes, Twitch has specific guidelines for usernames. A username that violates Twitch’s community guidelines, such as those containing offensive language, hate speech, references to drugs or sexual content, or impersonation, is not allowed.
Does Changing My Twitch Username Affect My Existing Followers, View Count, Followed Channels, or Subscriptions?
No, changing your Twitch username does not impact your existing followers, view count, followed channels, or active subscriptions. All these elements remain intact and are transferred to your new username. Your community will still be there but under your new name.
Should I Tell My Followers About My New Twitch Username?
Yes, it’s highly recommended to inform your followers about your new Twitch username. Although changing your username won’t directly affect your followers, notifying them helps avoid confusion and ensures they can continue to find and interact with your content without interruption.
Can I Change My Twitch Username to an Already Existing One?
No, if another account currently uses a username, you cannot claim it. Even if a username becomes available, Twitch holds onto usernames for a minimum of 6 months before they might be recycled for someone else to use. This policy is in place to prevent impersonation and protect user identity.
Does Changing My Twitch Username Affect My Display Name?
Yes, changing your Twitch username will also change your display name on the platform. However, Twitch allows you to customize your display name. This means you can adjust how your username is presented to others.
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