If you have been eyeing an Instagram handle that has been inactive for months or years, you may be thinking about claiming it. While it’s possible to do so, the process can be lengthy and complicated.

To start with, keep in mind that Instagram’s policy dictates that accounts are not automatically deleted due to inactivity. As such, the username remains locked and inaccessible to others. If this account happens to have your desired handle, your only option is to request for it. In this article, we’ll walk you through how to claim an inactive account and what to do when you can’t.

How to Claim an Inactive Account

Start by typing the Instagram handle you desire into the search button. If the account is active, you’ll see their profile picture, bio, and last post date. If the account appears inactive, you’ll see minimal activity, zero posts, and the last post may have been shared months or years ago.

2. Reach Out to the Owner

In some cases, you may recognize the account’s handle and know the owner, in which case you can reach out to them directly and ask if they would be willing to release the username. If you don’t know the owner, get in touch using another platform, such as Facebook or Twitter, if their account tag is the same across various social media pages.

3. Submit a Formal Request

If you can’t get in touch with the owner and their account appears inactive, you can submit a formal report to Instagram. Click on the three-lined menu icon on the side of the username, then select “report a problem” and choose “something isn’t working” then finally click “General feedback”. Write an explanation that the handle appears inactive and add a polite request for Instagram to release the account.

Keep in mind that Instagram won’t respond to your request unless you can prove ownership of the intellectual property connected to the handle you’re claiming.

If You Can’t Claim the Account, Here’s What You Can Do:

1. Add Spaces to Your Username

Add underscores, dots, or other symbols to your ideal username to differentiate and make it unique. For example, if you were trying to claim @jamesbond but it has already been taken, try @james_bond or @james_bond007.

2. Use a Different Name

Think of a name that is similar to your ideal username. Choose something that feels like it matches the aesthetic or purpose of your brand or personal account.

3. Buy a Desired Username

If you are still keen on keeping your desired username, check if it’s for sale from the owner or a third-party marketplace.

In conclusion, if you want to claim an inactive Instagram account, your best bet is to either reach out to the owner or submit a formal report to Instagram. However, if these two options don’t work, you can try adding symbols, using a similar name or buying the username. Good luck and happy gramming!