How to Delete Your LinkedIn Account

It's easier to do than you think.

Woman in yellow sweater looking at her computer and smiling.

Mixetto/Getty Images

by Brenna Miles
Brenna Miles is a freelance technology writer with a B.A. in Business Management and HR Management. She's been writing about technology for 6+ years.
Updated November 30, 2018

LinkedIn has grown in popularity since its creation in 2002, but users do occasionally leave the platform. If you need to know how to delete a LinkedIn account, LinkedIn makes it easy for users who no longer need its services.

Once your account is closed, you'll no longer have access to any of your connections or information. You'll also lose all of your recommendations and endorsements you've gathered on your profile.

Why Should I Delete My LinkedIn Account?

Individuals who choose to delete their LinkedIn accounts have varying reasons why. Some of these may include:

  • Lack of use: Individuals who no longer use the platform should delete their account. Although having a delinquent account won't necessarily harm you, it won't improve your security online. Plus, removing your account will halt the updates sent to your email inbox.
  • Retirement: Have you recently retired? Are you no longer looking for a career or profession? It might be time to delete your LinkedIn account. After all, the platform is mostly used as a resume of sorts and might not be needed any longer.
  • Finding another platform that fits their needs: LinkedIn is far from being the only social media platform available online. Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and more are heavy contenders, even for those seeking employment and networking opportunities.

Are you currently running a group on LinkedIn? If so, you will need to exit the group prior to deleting your account. Find a new leader or delete the group to continue.

How to Delete LinkedIn Account

  1. Open LinkedIn on your desktop and navigate to the homepage.

  2. Select the image of yourself in the top right hand corner. You'll see a dropdown menu appear with many different options.

    Screenshot of LinkedIn home screen on desktop

  3. Select Settings & Privacy.

  4. Select Account.

    Screenshot of LinkedIn account screen on desktop

  5. Select Account management at the bottom of the menu on the left.

    Screenshot of LinkedIn Account Management screen on desktop

  6. Select Closing your LinkedIn account.

  7. You'll be asked why you wish to close your account. Answer the question, then select Next.

    Screenshot of account closing question on LinkedIn

  8. You'll be asked to enter your password. Do so, then select Close Account.