Instagram Username Already Taken? Here’s How to Claim It

So, you finally get around to making an Instagram account. You enter your ideal username — the one that aligns with your brand, vibe, or even with your personal identity. But then … Instagram displays the dreaded message: “This username isn’t available.” Frustrating, right?

You’re not alone. It’s a common problem experienced by Millions of users every day. Whether you are a small business, a personal brand, or just someone who wants a clean username, discovering that it is already taken can be very discouraging.

But don’t worry. In this blog, we’ll show how to get a taken Instagram name in easy steps. You’ll discover why your username is important, what aspects are within your control (legally and safely), & some creative ways to choose an alternative username that will allow you to live boldly and share it out.

Why Instagram Usernames Matter

Your Username is Your Digital Identity

On Instagram, your username isn’t just a name—it’s your digital identity. It’s how people recognize you, tag you, and remember you. For a business, it’s often the first impression customers get. A good username increases credibility and makes you look professional.

Suppose you’re on the hunt for a bakery and have two options to compare:

@sweetdelightsbakery
@sweetdelights12345_xoxo

Which one feels more trustworthy? Exactly, it’s @sweetdelightsbakery.

Discoverability and Search

Usernames play a big role in searchability. With your handle the same as your brand name, people find you more easily. If it’s confusing or full of random characters, you lose people before you even start attracting them.

Consistency Across Platforms

Having the same username on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, Twitter and elsewhere makes it easy for people to find you and reach out to you wherever they’re already spending time. Consistency helps to gain trust and for your brand to grow smoothly.

How to Claim a Taken Instagram Username

Firstly. It is essential to know that there are over 1.4 billion Instagram users globally, of whom millions of people are businessmen. So, it’s not surprising that the username you are going to choose for your brand is already taken because Instagram acts on a first-come, first-served policy. Thus, be prepared for that situation.

Now, it’s time to highlight the main points of how you can take an Instagram name that is already in use. Here are a few ideas you can attempt.

1. Check the Current Username Owner

Start by visiting the profile that is currently using the username you desire to have. Ask yourself:

Is the account open or closed?
Do they write regularly, or have there been years of silence?
Real person or spam account?

This helps you decide your next step.

2. Try Reaching Out Directly

If you observe that the account with the same username is still active, send them a friendly DM. While sending DM, remember to be professional and respectful. For example:

“Hello, I noticed you have a username with @ExampleName. I’m creating a brand with the same name and thought I would ask you to sell it. I would be happy to talk about it.”

Some individuals will simply ignore the request, others may open it — sometimes for a price. Just know that Instagram discourages the buying and selling of usernames, so proceed carefully and don’t fall for a scam.

3. Report an Inactive Account

If the account is inactive (no posts, no profile picture, no recent activity), you can claim it. Instagram doesn’t always release inactive usernames, but you can try reporting the account if it violates guidelines.

For this:

Go to the profile.
Tap the three dots (top right).
Select Report and follow the steps.

It’s not guaranteed, but some users have been able to receive a name after reporting.

4. File a Trademark Claim (for Businesses)

If someone else is using your username on Instagram and you have a registered trademark for your business name, this is great evidence to make your case and take it away from them.

Instagram has a trademark infringement form that you can use to submit the proof. Even if approvd but it still may take the name from you.

This is a good choice for business, brand or public figure, that have legal rights to the name

5. Use Smart Variations

If none of the above works, try creative variations of your username:

If none of the above steps work, experiment with creative versions of your username:

Add an underscore: @sweet_delights
Use location: @sweetdelightsNYC
Add “official”: @sweetdelightsofficial
Shorten smartly: @sweetdlt

Make it simple and make sure you’ll remember it! Don’t rely on random numbers or too many symbols — these can make your account look unprofessional.

Do’s and Don’ts When Trying to Get a Username

Do’s

Stay professional – Always approach people with respect.
Secure names early – Even if you’re not using Instagram right now, register your handle before someone else takes it.
Protect legally – If you have a trademark, use it to your advantage.

Don’ts

Don’t harass or spam the current owner. That can get you reported.
Don’t hack or use shady services—this is against Instagram’s policies and your account can be banned.
Don’t overcomplicate your username with too many numbers or symbols. Simplicity wins.

What to Do if You Can’t Get the Exact Name

Sometimes, no matter what you try, the username just isn’t available. That doesn’t mean you can’t build a strong Instagram brand and enhance your online business presence.

Use Creative Branding

Think beyond just your name. For instance, if @LunaBakery is taken, go with something like:

@TheLunaBakery
@BakeWithLuna
@LunaBakeryCo

These are not only professional in appearance, but it bring personality to your brand.

Leverage Keywords

If you’re running a niche business, adding keywords can help with discoverability. For example:

@LunaBakeryCakes
@LunaBakeryDesserts
@LunaBakeryGlutenFree

Those looking for a particular product are more likely to find you.

Focus on Content, Not Just the Handle

Thus, your content is more important than your handle. A profile full of amazing posts, reels and stories will always grow, no matter what the username. Let the absence of a name not keep you away.

Final Tips for Building a Strong Instagram Presence

Don’t stress about perfection – Many top influencers and brands who don’t have their “perfect” handle. The key is consistency and value.
Optimize your bio and profile –Your bio is the only place that you can use a URL, so spend time making it look how you want. It makes a bigger impact than your username.
Encourage proper tagging – If you’re handle has alternatives, let your followers know how to tag you correctly.

Conclusion

It can be discouraging to have your dream Instagram username taken — but all is not lost. You now know how to get a taken Instagram name—from reaching out directly, reporting inactive accounts, and filing trademark claims, to using smart variations that still represent your brand.

Just remember: If you can’t get the exact handle, you are still able to make a strong impression on Instagram. What counts most is your creativity, content, and connection to your audiences.

So, don’t stress about having your perfect username. Now, it’s time to show up, be a part of your community and show more of the personality of your brand.

Start optimizing your Instagram presence today—your community is waiting.