How to change your name on Fortnite

What is a Fortnite display name?

A Fortnite display name is the username that appears over your character in the game, on the lobby screen, and on your friends list. Because the game is cross-platform, your in-game identity is tied directly to your Epic Games account. For players using a PC, Mac, Nintendo Switch, or mobile device, your Epic Games account name and your Fortnite usernames are exactly the same. However, the system works slightly differently on PlayStation and Xbox, where the game pulls your public identity from your console network instead of your Epic account.

How to change your Fortnite name via Epic Games

In order to change your Fortnite name, you need to log into your Epic Games account through a web browser. If you play on PC, mobile, or Nintendo Switch, updating your details on the website will instantly change your in-game identity.

1. Open your preferred web browser and navigate to the official Epic Games website.

2. Complete your epic games login using your current email and password.

3. Hover over your profile icon in the top right corner and select Account from the dropdown menu.

4. In the Account Settings tab, look for the Account Information section.

5. Find your current Display Name and click the blue pencil icon located right next to it.

6. Type your new desired name into the box, type it a second time to confirm, and check the box to agree to the terms.

7. Click Save Changes to finalize your new name.

While these steps work perfectly for computers and mobile devices, players using a PlayStation or Xbox will need to update their console network tags directly. Continue reading below to learn exactly how to handle name changes on those specific systems.

Changing your Fortnite name on different platforms

Depending on the device you use, you may need to change your platform's main gamertag rather than just your Epic Games display name. Here are the simple steps required for each platform.

PlayStation (PS4 and PS5)

To change your Fortnite name on PS4 and PS5, you must change your actual PlayStation Network (PSN) Online ID. Because PlayStation overrides your Epic account name, updating your PSN ID is the only way to see a different name in your game. You can do this directly on your console by opening your Settings, going to Account Management, selecting Account Information, and then choosing Profile. From there, select Online ID to enter and save your new identity.

Xbox

Xbox players must change their Xbox Gamertag to see a new name during matches. You can easily update this by pressing the Xbox button on your controller, navigating to Profile and System, and selecting your profile. Choose My Profile, select Customize Profile, and then click on your current gamertag to type in a new one. You can also log into the Microsoft website on a computer to manage your gamertag there.

Nintendo Switch

Unlike Xbox and PlayStation consoles, the Nintendo Switch actually uses your Epic Games display name for Fortnite. To update your name as a Switch player, simply grab your phone or computer and follow the main Epic Games website steps listed in the section above.

PC and Mobile

PC, Mac, and mobile versions of the game rely entirely on your Epic Games account name. You do not need to alter any external device network accounts. Just log into the Epic Games website, access your account settings, and update your display name using the steps provided earlier.

Rules and limitations for changing your name

There are restrictions on modifying your account details, so you should pick your new name carefully. You can only change your Epic Games display name once every two weeks. If you make a typo, you have to wait out the fourteen-day cooldown period. If you are wondering how much to change fortnite name, updating it through the Epic Games portal is completely free. However, PlayStation and Xbox typically only allow your first PSN ID or Gamertag change for free. Any additional name changes on those console networks will usually require you to pay a fee.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why did Fortnite change my name to User?

Epic Games automatically resets names to User followed by a string of numbers if the previous name violated their Community Rules. This action is taken if your old name contained offensive language, inappropriate references, or toxicity.

Why can't I change my Fortnite name?

You usually cannot change your name if you are trying to do so before the two-week cooldown period is over. Other common reasons include not having a verified email address attached to your Epic Games account, or selecting a name that is already taken, which will give you a message that the local device name is already in use.

How long does it take for your Fortnite name to change?

When you use the Epic Games portal, the name change is usually instant. However, you may need to completely close and restart your game client to see your new identity reflected on your screen.

What to change my Fortnite name to?

When picking new ign names, it is highly recommended to keep your choice short and easy for your teammates to call out during a match. Avoid using any personal information, and ensure your new name adheres to the Epic Games terms of service so it does not get reset.

Once your profile looks exactly how you want it, you might be ready to update your character's look as well. If you want to share the fun with friends, you can easily gift Fortnite skins so your squad matches. If you need to top up your own account to grab the newest battle pass or cosmetics, using Fortnite V-Bucks gift cards is a fast and secure way to ensure you always have enough currency for the items you want most.