How do I delete Facebook, Instagram, and Messenger accounts?
Answer
Facebook, Instagram, and Messenger are Meta accounts. Delete or deactivate each product from Accounts Center (or each app’s settings) while signed in. Messenger is tied to Facebook, so deleting Facebook affects Messenger access.
Before you start: stop right away if…
- Permanent deletion can remove photos, messages, and Pages you will not get back after the waiting period ends.
- Never share passwords or codes with anyone who contacts you unexpectedly offering to delete accounts for you.
Follow these steps
Sign in and open Accounts Center
In the Facebook or Instagram app, open Settings and find Accounts Center (Meta Accounts Center). On a browser, go to accountscenter.facebook.com and sign in.
You should see: You see the Accounts Center home with your linked profiles listed.
Download your information if needed
Before deletion, use Download your information (or similar) for Facebook and Instagram if you want a copy of photos, posts, or messages.
You should see: A download request is queued or a file is ready when Meta finishes preparing it.
Choose deactivation or deletion for each profile
In Accounts Center, open Personal details or Deactivation or deletion. Select Facebook, Instagram, or both, then choose Deactivate or Delete and follow the confirmation prompts.
You should see: Meta confirms the account is deactivated or scheduled for deletion.
Understand how Messenger is affected
Messenger uses your Facebook account. If you delete Facebook, Messenger signed in with that account will stop working. If you only use Instagram messaging, manage that from Instagram’s account deletion options.
You should see: You know which chat apps will stop after the deletion choice you made.
If you cannot sign in
Use Meta’s official "Forgot password" and account recovery on facebook.com or Instagram only. After you regain access, repeat Accounts Center deletion. Do not pay third parties to delete accounts.
You should see: You regain access or receive Meta’s recovery instructions.
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Extra tips
What to look for: Accounts Center, Deactivate or delete profiles, and separate options for Facebook versus Instagram. Watch for download-your-information prompts before deletion completes.
Before you change anything: Decide whether you want temporary deactivation or permanent deletion. Download a copy of your information if you need posts, photos, or messages later. Confirm you can receive email or texts for the accounts. Never share passwords with someone offering to "delete everything for you."