Forgot your Instagram password: how to reset it

In short

How do I reset my Instagram password?

On the login screen, tap Forgot password?, enter your username, email address or phone number and tap Send login link. Instagram sends a link to your email or phone to help you reset the password. If that doesn't work, Instagram points you to instagram.com/hacked on a computer or mobile browser.

Reset it from the login screen

1On the Instagram login screen, tap Forgot password?.
2Enter your username, email address or phone number and tap Send login link.
3Tap OK and follow the instructions. Instagram sends a link to your email or phone to help you reset the password.

If the reset email doesn't arrive

Instagram names two common reasons: the email went to spam, or the address was mistyped when the account was created. In the second case, Instagram says it can't give you access to that account.

Check your spam folder.
If your Instagram and Facebook accounts are linked, reset the password through Facebook verification instead.
Ask your email provider to confirm you can receive email from the @instagram.com domain.

If you can't reach the email or phone

Try to get the inbox or number back first: your email provider can help with the inbox, and your mobile carrier with the number. Instagram says it can't help you get back into your email account, and that if you can't access the email you signed up with and the account isn't linked to Facebook, it can't give you access to the account. Our two-factor guide covers lost phones in more detail.

If someone changed your details

If you can't reset the password this way, Instagram points you to instagram.com/hacked on a computer or mobile browser to secure your account. If the email on the account was changed by someone else, follow our guide to a hacked Instagram account.

Once you're back in

1Choose a new password you don't use on any other site.
2Turn on two-factor authentication and save your backup codes, as our two-factor guide explains.
3Make sure the email and phone number on your profile are ones you can reach.

Frequently asked questions

I don't remember my username either.

On the Forgot password? screen you can enter your email address or phone number instead of your username.

How do I know the reset email is really from Instagram?

Instagram lets you see the emails it recently sent you in its settings, so you can check whether a message is genuine. Never enter your password on a page you reached from a link you're unsure about.

Can you reset my password for me?

No. Only Instagram can send a reset link, and only to the email or phone on your account. Never give anyone your password or a login code.

Official sources

The platforms' own help and policy pages. We are not affiliated with them.