How to Permanently Delete Your Reddit Account
Last reviewed: October 2026 · Independent guide, not affiliated with Reddit
Reddit account deletion is immediate and permanent: there is no grace period and the username can never be used again. However, deleting the account does not delete your posts and comments — they remain, with the author shown as [deleted].
If you want your content gone, delete posts and comments first, then delete the account. Residents of the EU, UK and California can also ask Reddit to delete personal data under privacy law.
At a glance
- Time required: About 3 minutes (longer to clean up content)
- Grace period: None — deletion is immediate
- Posts and comments: Stay visible as [deleted] unless removed first
- Username: Cannot be reused by anyone
Reddit Help Center (official site) ↗
Before you delete
- Request your data at reddit.com/settings/data-request.
- Delete posts and comments you want removed — this is manual from your profile.
- Cancel Reddit Premium (in app stores if bought there).
- Hand over moderator roles in communities you run.
How to delete your Reddit account
- Log in at reddit.com, click your avatar and choose Settings.
- Open the Account tab and scroll to the bottom.
- Click Delete account.
- Enter your username and password, optionally a reason, tick the confirmation box and click Delete.
- In the app: tap your avatar > Settings > Account settings > Delete account.
Menus change often. If a button has moved, use the search box in the app's settings or the official help link above.
Removing your posts and comments
From your profile, open each post or comment, use the three-dot menu and choose Delete. Edited-then-deleted content cannot be restored. Third-party bulk deletion tools exist, but they need access to your account — use them at your own risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my Reddit posts and comments be deleted?
No. They stay visible as posted by [deleted]. Delete them before deleting the account if you want them gone.
Can I recover a deleted Reddit account?
No. Deletion is permanent and the username cannot be reclaimed.
Can I delete my Reddit account without the password?
You need to sign in. Reset your password via your email first if needed.
Does Reddit keep my data after deletion?
Reddit states it may keep some information for legal or security reasons; you can submit a data deletion request under privacy laws where they apply.