How to Claim Your Dream Instagram Username (Even If It’s Taken)

The Social Success Hub
Jul 10
4 min read

You go to create your Instagram account, type in the perfect handle—and it’s already taken. Worse, the account looks completely inactive. No posts. No profile picture. No signs of life.

Annoying? Definitely. Uncommon? Not at all.

You're not alone. As Instagram grows, the demand for clean, on-brand usernames is higher than ever. Whether you're building a personal brand, launching a business, or just want a consistent handle across platforms, having the right username matters.

The good news? Just because a username is taken doesn’t mean you’re out of options. In this guide, we’ll break down how to claim an inactive Instagram username, platform-specific workarounds, and the steps you can take to secure the handle you really want.

Why Instagram Usernames Matter More Than Ever

Your username is your brand’s digital front door. Whether you’re a creator, startup, or Fortune 500 brand, a clean and consistent handle improves:

Brand Recognition
Cross-platform Consistency
Search Engine Discoverability
User Trust
Competitive Protection

In today's digital-first world, securing the right handle is more than vanity — it’s an investment in long-term branding.

How to Claim a Taken Instagram Username

Instagram follows a first-come, first-served policy, but usernames can become available due to inactivity, trademark violations, or other unique factors. Here are the top five methods to secure one:

1. Contact the Current Username Holder

This is often the simplest and most direct approach. If the account appears inactive or has minimal use, consider sending a message like:

“Hi! I'm building a brand presence and really interested in using the handle @YourUsername. Would you be open to transferring it?”

If the user is open to discussion, great. If not, don’t worry — there are still other options.

2. Monitor for Instagram Username Purges

Instagram periodically purges inactive accounts. While unpredictable, these sweeps often free up thousands of usernames at once.

To increase your chances:

Set alerts using tools like Namechk
Monitor your target username regularly
Look for signs of a global purge (e.g. sudden drops in follower counts on large accounts)

3. Report Trademark Infringement

If someone is using a name that matches your registered trademark, you may be eligible to reclaim the username under Instagram’s official policy.

To do this, you'll need:

A registered trademark (USPTO, WIPO, etc.)
Proof the username is causing confusion or misleading users
Active use of the brand name in commerce

Instagram’s Trademark Report Form allows you to file a formal complaint.

If this feels complex or risky, The Social Success Hub can help file it properly, increasing your odds of success.

4. File a Report for Inactivity + Brand Conflict

While Instagram doesn’t provide a public form for claiming inactive usernames, verified partners and media reps have access to internal channels.

If the username:

Has no posts or engagement
Matches your domain, trademark, or brand identity
Hasn’t been active for years

...then it may be eligible for reassignment.

⚠️ False reports can lead to penalties — use this option carefully or get expert assistance. At The Social Success Hub, we have close connections with media reps that allow us to escalate legitimate claims through proper internal channels.

5. Purchase the Username Safely (If You Must)

While Instagram prohibits the buying/selling of usernames, it’s an open secret that many transfers still happen privately. If you go this route:

Never pay upfront to a random user
Avoid forums and marketplaces filled with scams
Use a provider who understands the process, risks, and how to safely secure the transfer

This method comes with risk, but when done right, it’s a fast-track to your dream handle.

The Social Success Hub can help you safely acquire the username of your dreams directly on your behalf, using a strategic, case-by-case approach that prioritizes security and compliance.

Extra Tips if All Else Fails

If none of the above options work, try these:

Add a location or niche: @YourBrandNYC, @YourBrandTech
Use underscores or periods: @your.name or @your_name
Append professional modifiers: @YourBrandHQ, @OfficialYourName

Still want the original? Contact us today and we'll help you claim the handle of your dreams.

Why the Username Market Is Booming

The secondary market for Instagram usernames is growing rapidly. Short, catchy, brandable handles are being bought and sold — sometimes for tens thousands of dollars.

Inactive accounts, outdated fan pages, or old personal accounts are often targeted. But with demand comes risk — in recent years Instagram has banned hundreds of accounts for username theft or unauthorized resale.

To avoid this, always use trusted services, follow Instagram’s guidelines, and consider legally protecting your name via a trademark or copyright if it’s core to your business.

Should You Trademark a Username?

If the username is your business name, product name, or essential part of your identity, registering a trademark can greatly improve your chances of recovering it.

Once your mark is registered:

You can submit a report directly to Instagram
Legal support strengthens your claim
You may qualify for username reassignment via partner channels

Need help? The Social Success Hub has filed dozens of successful claims and can guide you through the process.

Final Thoughts: Your Handle = Your Identity

Your Instagram username is a permanent part of your online presence. Whether you're just starting out or protecting a fast-growing brand, securing the right name is more important than ever.

Let our team at The Social Success Hub help you claim the name you deserve — whether that means monitoring for a purge, negotiating with the current user, or using trademark rights.

🚀 Ready to start your Instagram username claim? Submit your request here.

Looking for more insider tips on building your brand? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us for real-time updates, growth strategies, and social media wins.