Google has finally started offering users the option to change their Gmail address. If you’re stuck with a mildly embarrassing email address that you came up with years ago, you can now change it to something else. The good news is that you get to keep your old username. If someone sends you an email to the old address, it will still reach your Gmail inbox. Let’s take a quick look at how you can change your Gmail address.
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In This Article
Before you begin
Changing your Google username is a seamless process. It does not affect your data across Google’s apps and services. However, Google does recommend creating a backup of your data before changing the username. Here are some other things you need to look out for in the process:
- Your Chromebook directory may get empty: Logging out and logging back in will resolve this issue.
- Some third-party apps may not recognise your new email address: Manually change your email address in affected apps.
- Chrome Remote Desktop no longer works: Disable and re-enable remote connections. Reconnect with your new email address.
- Google apps and services may show a different Google account: Manually switch to the previous Google account after changing the name.
- Contact info has disappeared: Google takes some time to restore contact information after you change your username.
- Payment methods removed: You will need to re-link your credit/debit card and set up UPI.
- Google Home routines don’t run: Edit a routine, but don’t make any changes. Save it as it is.
- Calendar events have disappeared: Force stop and restart the Calendar app.
Change your Gmail address
- Sign in to your Gmail account and click your profile picture in the top right corner of the screen.
- Click on Manage your Google Account.
- Select Personal info from the sidebar.
- Click on Email.
- Select your primary Google Account email.
- Click on Change Google Account email.
- Review potential issues with the name change. It is recommended that you create a backup of your data before changing the username.
- Enter your new username or address in the text box.
- Click on Change email.
- Confirm your selection.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I get my old Gmail address back?
Go to Google’s Account Management Page, go to Personal info>Email>Google Account email, find your old email address, and select ‘Make this your Google Account email’.
Can someone else use my Gmail address after I change it?
No, your old Gmail address stays with you once you change it. No one can claim it as their own.
How many times can I change my Gmail address?
You can change your Gmail/Google username once every 12 months, for a total of 3 times in total.
Will I receive emails on my old Gmail account once I change my email address?
Yes, emails sent to your old address will reach your inbox after you’ve changed your Gmail username.
Can I send emails from my old Gmail address after changing my username?
Yes, you can still send emails from your old Gmail address once you change it to a new one.
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Final Thoughts
Once you’ve changed your Gmail address, you can sign in to Google services like Maps, YouTube, Drive, Docs, and more using either address. Your data will remain unaffected. If you have any questions, let us know in the comments!
