How to Permanently Delete Your WhatsApp Account
Last reviewed: October 2026 · Independent guide, not affiliated with WhatsApp
Deleting your WhatsApp account removes your account info and profile photo, deletes you from all WhatsApp groups and deletes your message history on that phone, along with your Google Drive or iCloud backup. Uninstalling the app does none of that.
WhatsApp says the deletion process can take up to 90 days to complete on its systems, though you lose access immediately.
At a glance
- Time required: About 2 minutes
- Reversible?: No — the account cannot be restored
- What is lost: Chats, groups, backups, Channels you own
- Processing: WhatsApp may take up to 90 days to fully delete data
WhatsApp Help Center (official site) ↗
Before you delete
- Export important chats: open a chat > contact name > Export chat.
- Request your account report: Settings > Account > Request account info.
- Switch numbers instead if you just got a new phone number (Settings > Account > Change number).
- Tell contacts how else to reach you.
How to delete your WhatsApp account
- Open WhatsApp and go to Settings (iPhone: Settings tab; Android: ⋮ > Settings).
- Tap Account, then Delete account.
- Enter your phone number in full international format.
- Tap Delete account, choose a reason if asked, and confirm.
Menus change often. If a button has moved, use the search box in the app's settings or the official help link above.
Delete vs uninstall
Uninstalling removes the app but your account stays active and people can still message you. Only Delete account removes you from groups and deletes your backups.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will deleting WhatsApp delete my chat history?
Yes, on your phone and in your backup. Messages you sent still exist on recipients’ phones.
Can I create a new account with the same number?
Yes, but none of your old chats or groups come back.
How do I back up chats before deleting?
Export chats individually; a regular backup is deleted together with the account.
Does deleting WhatsApp affect Facebook or Instagram?
No. Those accounts are separate, even if linked in Accounts Center.