How to Get an Unavailable Instagram Username

You’ve found the perfect Instagram username - it’s punchy, brandable, and perfectly you. You type it in, hit next, and see the dreaded message: “This username is not available.” It’s a frustrating moment, but it doesn't have to be the end of the line. This article breaks down the legitimate, actionable strategies you can use, from simple tweaks and direct negotiation to official trademark claims, helping you finally secure the handle you really want.

Why Your Instagram Username Matters More Than You Think

Before diving into the tactics, it’s worth remembering why this is so important. Your Instagram username isn't just a label, it's your brand's digital address. A great username is memorable, easy to find, and adds a layer of professionalism and credibility to your profile. Think of it as prime real estate. The right one makes you instantly recognizable, while a clunky, misspelled, or random one creates friction for potential followers and customers trying to find you. Ideally, your username should be consistent across all your social media platforms to create a unified, easily searchable brand presence.

Is the Username *Actually* Unavailable or Just Dormant?

First, you need to do a little recon. Not all “unavailable” usernames are in the same situation. They typically fall into two categories:

1. It’s an active account. Someone is actively posting, engaging, and using the handle. This is the hardest scenario to overcome, but not always impossible.
2. It’s an inactive, or “ghost,” account. The account exists, but there’s no activity. You might see zero posts, a default profile picture, and a last login date that feels ancient.

To find out which it is, simply navigate to instagram.com/[username] in your browser. If a profile loads - even if it's private or empty - it's taken. If you get a "Sorry, this page isn't available" message, it likely means the account was deleted or banned. In this case, the username is still locked in Instagram's system and unfortunately, it's very unlikely to become available again. Your best bet is to focus on usernames tied to existing inactive profiles.

Strategy 1: Play with Variations (The Easy Win)

Before you embark on a complex quest, let's explore the easiest path forward: modifying the username. Too often, people give up when a simple, brand-aligned adjustment will do the trick. You can still maintain brand consistency with a small tweak.

Add a Modifier or Prefix

Adding a simple word can make your name unique while keeping the core identity intact.

• Geographic Location: Perfect for local businesses or creators. Example: @carlys_bakery becomes @carlysbakerynyc.
• "The" or "I am": Classic additions that add a bit of personality. Example: @janesmith becomes @thejanesmith or @iamjanesmith.
• "Official" or "Real": Often used by public figures, this can signal authenticity. Use with care. Example: @yourbrand becomes @yourbrandofficial.
• "HQ," "INC," or "App": Great for businesses, startups, and software companies. Example: @launchpad becomes @launchpadhq or @launchpadapp.

Use an Action Word

Attaching a verb can make your handle more dynamic and descriptive, especially for service-based brands or creators.

• Example: If @lisatravels is taken, try @GoWithLisa or @ExploreWithLisa.
• Example: If @fitbites is gone, try @GetFitBites or @EatFitBites.

Use Underscores Smartly

Underscores are a great way to separate words for clarity when the combined version is taken. However, keep them minimal - too many can look cluttered or outdated. An underscore can be an effective and clean differentiator.

• Example: @firstlast becomes @first_last.
• Example: @brandslogan becomes @brand_slogan.

A quick note: Instagram does not distinguish usernames with and without periods. So, @john.smith is the same handle as @johnsmith. If one is taken, the other is too. Underscores, however, are unique identifiers.

Strategy 2: The Diplomatic Approach: Ask Nicely (And Be Prepared to Pay)

If you're set on the exact username and it belongs to a dormant account, your next move is direct outreach. This requires tact, professionalism, and patience.

Step 1: Find Their Contact Information

Scour the inactive profile for any clues. Sometimes, a long-forgotten bio will have an old email address, a link to a blog, or a personal website. If it’s an old business account, that’s even better - you can usually find contact info on their website.

Step 2: Craft a Polite & Professional Message

Your first message is critical. Don't be demanding, entitled, or vague. Be clear, polite, and explain your situation.

Here’s a friendly template you can adapt:

Subject: Question About Your Instagram Account, @[username]

Hi [Name, if you can find it],

My name is [Your Name], and I’m the founder of [Your Business Name/Project]. We’re launching our brand, and the name is very important to our identity.

I noticed you have the Instagram handle @[username], and I wanted to reach out to see if you might be open to transferring it. I understand you registered it first, but it seems like the account hasn't been active in a while, and it would be perfect for our brand.

If you're willing to part with it, I would be happy to offer a fair price for your trouble.

Thanks for considering.

Best,

[Your Name]

Step 3: Negotiate Securely

If they reply and are open to the idea, be prepared to make a financial offer. Selling usernames is technically against Instagram’s terms of service, so this is a gray area. To protect both parties, never send money directly. Insist on using a secure escrow service like Escrow.com or similar platforms that specialize in digital asset sales. The service holds your money until the seller provides you with the account credentials and you confirm you have control. This minimizes the risk of someone taking your money and disappearing.

Strategy 3: The Official Channels (For When You Have a Legal Claim)

This path is the most difficult but also the most legitimate. It’s not for people who simply want a cool handle, it's for brands and individuals with legal standing.

The Inactivity Policy Myth

Let's clear this up first: Instagram will not transfer an "inactive" username to you just because you ask. There's no form to fill out or number to call to report a dormant account for release. Instagram's policy on inactive accounts reserves the right for them to remove accounts, but they don't do it on request for the benefit of other users. Anyone telling you otherwise is misinformed.

Filing a Trademark Claim

This is the most effective official method, but it has a very specific requirement: you must own a registered trademark for the name. A company name or a DBA is not enough - you need the official registration certificate from a government body like the USPTO.

If you have a registered trademark, and someone is using your exact name in a way that could confuse consumers, you have a strong case. Here's how it generally works:

1. Navigate to Instagram’s Help Center and find the "Report a Trademark Violation" form.
2. Fill out the form with your contact details and trademark information, including your registration number and the relevant class of goods/services.
3. Clearly explain how the account in question is infringing on your trademark and creating brand confusion. Your argument is that their use of the name misleads people into thinking their account is officially associated with your brand.

This process can be lengthy, as Instagram's legal team has to review everything. If your claim is successful, they will likely force the other account to change its name, freeing it up for you.

Filing an Impersonation Claim

This is for an even more specific issue. An impersonation claim is only valid if an account is actively pretending to be you (as a person) or your company. To prove this, you need to show that they are using your photos, posting content intended to mislead followers, or otherwise directly imitating your identity. Just owning the handle isn't usually enough to be considered impersonation. If this is happening, you can report the account for impersonation through the Help Center and may be asked to provide proof of identity, such as a government-issued ID.

What Not To Do: Avoid These Username Scams and Bad Practices

On your quest, you might come across services or suggestions that seem too good to be true - because they are.

• "Username Claiming" Services: Dozens of shady websites claim they can secure any unavailable Instagram username for a fee. The vast majority of these are scams. They will either take your money and vanish or use prohibited means to try and get the account, which could get your own profile banned in the process.
• Attempting to Hack or Phish: Do not try to gain unauthorized access to someone's account. It’s illegal, unethical, and will get you permanently banned from Instagram and potentially in legal trouble.
• Repeatedly Reporting an Account: Falsely reporting an inactive account in an attempt to get it disabled is a form of platform manipulation. This tactic does not work, as it won’t free up the username.

Final Thoughts

Securing the perfect username is part persistence, part creativity, and part strategy. You can often land a fantastic handle by making simple variations, or by professionally and respectfully reaching out to the current owner. For those with intellectual property rights, the official trademark process remains the most powerful tool available. Whichever route you choose, approach it with patience and a clear plan.

We know that a strong username is the first step toward building a recognizable brand presence. Once you secure that handle, the real work begins - creating and consistently publishing amazing content. That's why we built tools like Postbase from the ground up for modern social media. We help you plan your content on a visual calendar, schedule posts (especially short-form video), and manage all your comments and DMs in one simple inbox, letting you focus on growth without wrestling with your software.