Practical guide

How to permanently delete an Instagram account in the U.S.

Quick answer: Use Meta Accounts Center to choose the Instagram profile and request permanent deletion. Download anything you want to keep first and make sure you are acting on the correct profile.

Before deleting the account

Save photos, messages, or other information you want to keep. Temporary deactivation is a separate option if you may want to return later.

Use Accounts Center

Open Accounts Center, choose the relevant profile, and look for the account ownership and control options. Interface labels can change, so confirm the current steps in Instagram Help.

Check the profile and confirmation

Verify that the selected Instagram account is the one you intend to remove before confirming. Do not rely on third-party deletion services that ask for your password.

Source & methodology

Instagram’s first-party help article covers permanent deletion, deactivation, and exporting information before deletion.