Ever try claiming a TikTok username that seems available, only to have the platform say it’s already taken? Or maybe you signed up for a new account, but it rejected your chosen unique handle for the same reason? Annoying, I know!
This happens when there’s a lag between someone newly taking a username and TikTok’s servers fully updating availability across the app. It can take days or even weeks for the change to propagate fully.
In the meantime, the platform may still show that desired username as up for grabs in certain searches, while trying to select it triggers the frustrating “already taken” error.
Luckily, the fix is simple – just be patient and periodically check back on claiming that username over days or weeks. Eventually, the servers will sync up, the name will show as truly taken, and you can find a new great handle instead.
TikTok username available but already taken?
The main reason is that TikTok’s servers lag behind account changes in their giant database. So, someone may have just newly claimed that handle you want, but the platform needs a few days to update that switch fully across the entire system.
Think of it as a processing delay before the change ticks through all TikTok’s machinery. It’s annoying, sure, but just give it some time, and soon that username will appear properly taken in searches across the board.
The other common culprit is browsing TikTok on the web versus mobile. Due to technical quirks between platforms, the website can display outdated availability compared to what the current status actually is in the app.
So for the most accurate results, check for usernames directly through the mobile application. Chances are it’s got the freshest details that align with what happens during account creation.
How do I fix the TikTok username available but taken?
Wait A Few Days
Have you recently deactivated your TikTok account or changed your username? Maybe you want to use your old username for a new account, but you’re having trouble claiming it?
Here’s the deal: TikTok takes about two weeks to update its database with these changes. If you try to switch usernames during this time, TikTok might show an error message.
The trick is to keep trying every couple of days, and eventually, TikTok will catch up and let you make the change!
But here’s the thing to remember: If your TikTok account has been inactive for over six months or you’ve already changed your username, the old username becomes available immediately. That means anyone can grab it if you don’t act fast during the transition.
So, if you’re facing this issue with a new account, here’s a workaround: Create a Gmail account with your desired username as the first name (leave the last name blank). Then, use that email to sign up for a new TikTok account, and you should be able to use your preferred username without any issues.
Use TikTok App
If you encounter difficulties registering a username on TikTok through a desktop browser and face a “404 page not found” error, switching to the mobile app is a practical solution. Follow these steps:
- Download the TikTok app on your mobile device.
- Sign in to your TikTok account using your existing credentials.
- Navigate to the section where you can select or change your username within the app.
- Choose the desired username, and you should be able to claim it without encountering the issues faced on the desktop browser.
It’s important to note that if a username is banned or restricted, it might become available for registration but may still be subject to certain limitations. Always comply with TikTok’s community guidelines and policies to ensure a smooth experience on the platform.
Can I get a TikTok username that’s already taken?
TikTok periodically reviews inactive accounts and may make their usernames available for others to claim after a certain period of inactivity, typically around 180 days or more. This process helps keep the platform’s username pool dynamic and allows active users to access desired usernames.
One way to check if a username is available is to search for it on TikTok. If the username appears with random numbers appended to it, it indicates that the original username is now available for new users to claim. This provides an opportunity for you to secure the username you’ve been wanting. Keep an eye out for these changes and act promptly when you spot an available username that you’d like to claim!
How do I get a TikTok username that has already been taken?
If a TikTok user agrees to give you their username or sell it to you, they will need to change their username to release it. However, there is a transition period during which the username becomes available for you to claim.
During this transition period, the username is held in a sort of limbo where it’s not immediately available for others to take. This transition period can vary in length, and the username will eventually become available for you to claim.
It’s important to communicate clearly with the user about the timing and process of the username change to ensure a smooth transition and avoid any misunderstandings. Additionally, be patient during this period, as it may take some time for the username to become available for you to claim.
or You can try the methods below:
- Add Numbers or Symbols: You can add numbers or symbols to the username to make it unique. For example, if “username” is taken, you could try “username123” or “username_.”
- Use Abbreviations or Initials: Consider abbreviating your desired username or using initials to create a variation that is available.
- Add Words: You can add relevant words before or after the username to create a unique combination. For instance, if “username” is taken, you could try “theusername” or “usernameofficial”.
- Try Different Spelling: Experiment with different spellings or variations of the username to see if any are available. However, make sure it’s still recognizable and easy to remember.
- Use a Different Platform: If the username is crucial to your branding or identity, you might consider using a different platform where the username is available.
Remember to choose a username that reflects your identity or brand and is easy for others to remember. Once you find an available username that you like, be sure to claim it quickly before someone else does!
