Deleting a Facebook account is a permanent decision, so it is worth taking a few minutes to prepare before confirming it. Facebook’s menus can vary slightly by device or app version, but the account deletion process is generally available through Accounts Center.
Before You Delete Your Facebook Account
Account deletion removes your profile and affects information connected to it. Before continuing, review your account data, check connected services, and save anything you may want later.
- Download your information: Request a copy of your photos, posts, messages, and other available data from Facebook’s settings.
- Check connected apps: Some websites and apps may use Facebook Login. Create another login method before deleting your account.
- Review administrative access: If you manage a Page, group, or business asset, assign another trusted person the necessary permissions.
- Tell important contacts: Let friends or family know how to reach you after your Facebook account is gone.
Facebook Deactivation vs. Deletion
Deactivation is temporary, while deletion is intended to permanently remove your account. Choose deactivation if you need a break, choose deletion if you no longer want the account, and consider Messenger access before making your decision.
When Deactivation May Be Better
Deactivation hides much of your profile while allowing you to return later. It can be useful when you want a temporary break, need to reduce notifications, or are unsure about permanently leaving Facebook.
How to Delete a Facebook Account on a Computer
Use Facebook in a web browser and make sure you are signed in to the correct profile. Look for Settings & privacy, open Accounts Center, and select the account you want to manage.
- Click your profile picture in the upper-right area of Facebook.
- Open Settings & privacy, then select Settings.
- Choose Accounts Center. Depending on the interface, it may appear near the top of the settings page.
- Open Personal details, then select Account ownership and control.
- Choose Deactivation or deletion.
- Select the Facebook account or profile you want to remove.
- Choose Delete account, select Continue, and follow the confirmation prompts.
- Enter your password if requested and confirm the deletion request.
How to Delete a Facebook Account in the Mobile App
The mobile steps are similar, although labels and placement can differ between Android and iPhone. Start with the Menu, open Settings, and find Accounts Center to continue.
- Open the Facebook app and tap the menu or your profile picture.
- Tap Settings & privacy, then open Settings.
- Select Accounts Center.
- Tap Personal details, followed by Account ownership and control.
- Tap Deactivation or deletion and choose the relevant Facebook account.
- Select Delete account, tap Continue, and complete the on-screen instructions.
- Confirm your choice with your password or another requested security check.
What Happens After You Request Deletion?
Facebook normally provides a limited period during which you may cancel a deletion request. The exact timing and available options can change, so read the confirmation screen carefully and avoid signing back in if you want the process to continue. Cancellation windows, data removal, and linked services are the key points to understand.
Some information may remain temporarily in backup systems or appear in messages sent by other people. Deleting your account also does not automatically delete copies of content that others have saved or shared independently.
Common Problems When Deleting Facebook
If you cannot find the deletion option, check that you are using the correct profile and that the app or browser is updated. Search settings for deactivation or account ownership, and try Accounts Center directly if the menu layout has changed.
- Forgotten password: Recover access before starting the deletion request.
- Wrong profile selected: Carefully check the account name and profile picture in Accounts Center.
- Facebook Login dependencies: Update login details for other services before deleting Facebook.
- Unfinished confirmation: Follow every prompt until Facebook shows that the request has been submitted.
Final Checklist
Before confirming, make sure you have downloaded needed files, transferred any page responsibilities, and replaced Facebook Login where necessary. A final data backup, login review, and confirmation check can prevent problems during the account deletion steps.
- Save important photos, posts, and messages.
- Review apps and websites connected to Facebook.
- Move any Pages, groups, or business responsibilities to another person.
- Decide whether deactivation is more appropriate than permanent deletion.
- Confirm that you are deleting the intended account.
