Instagram has changed the account deactivation process in 2026, and because of this many users are not able to find the correct option. Below is the latest working method explained in simple, clear steps. Follow them one by one on your mobile.
Before Starting
- Login into the correct Instagram account.
- Remember your password.
- Make sure your email ID and mobile number are updated.
Clear Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Open Instagram
Open the Instagram app and make sure you are logged into the account you want to deactivate.
Step 2: Go to Profile
Tap on the Profile icon at the bottom right corner.
Step 3: Open Menu
Tap on the three lines (☰ menu) at the top right.
Step 4: Scroll Down to Help
Do not directly go to Accounts Center from here.
Scroll down and tap on Help.
Step 5: Open Help Search
Tap on Search Help Articles at the top.
Step 6: Search Deactivation Page
Type Account Delete in search.
Open the option:
“Permanently Delete or Deactivate Your Instagram Account”
Step 7: Open Account Center Link
A Help Center page will open.
Scroll down slowly and find Account Center (blue link).
Tap on it.
Step 8: Open Deactivation Settings
Now go to:
Account Ownership and Control → Deactivation or Deletion
Step 9: Select Correct Account
If multiple accounts are shown, select the account you want to deactivate.
Step 10: Choose Deactivate
You will see two options:
Deactivate Account → Temporary
Delete Account → Permanent
Select Deactivate Account → Tap Continue
Step 11: Enter Password
Enter your Instagram password and tap Continue.
Step 12: Select Reason
Choose any reason.
If you are not sure, select Just Need a Break → Continue.
Step 13: Select Reactivation Option
You will see auto-reactivation options (1–7 days).
If you want manual activation later →
Select Don’t Reactivate Automatically
Then tap Continue.
Step 14: Final Confirmation
Tap Deactivate Account.Your account will log out and deactivate.
What Happens After Deactivation
- Your profile will be hidden.
- Followers, posts, and stories will not be visible.
- Your account will not appear in search.
- Chats remain but name may show as Instagram User.
- Linked Threads account will also deactivate.
Reactivation
You can activate anytime by logging in again.But after reactivating, you must wait 7 days before deactivating again.
Important Tip
Before deactivating, make sure your email and mobile number are active.This helps if you forget password later, especially if you deactivate for long time.