How to Reactivate Your Instagram Account

When you're ready to return, it's easy to get back into the groove

by
Scott Orgera
Scott Orgera
Writer
Scott Orgera is a former writer who covering tech since 2007. He has 25+ years experience as a programmer and QA leader, and holds several Microsoft certifications.
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Scott Orgera
Updated on December 16, 2020
reviewed by
Christine Baker
Lifewire Tech Review Board Member
Christine Baker is a marketing consultant with experience working for a variety of clients. Her expertise includes social media, web development, and graphic design.
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Article reviewed on Apr 03, 2020
Christine Baker
The Ultimate Guide to Instagram
The Ultimate Guide to Instagram
Introduction
  • If you temporarily disabled your account, open the Instagram app or visit the Instagram website and log in.
  • If your account was suspended, log in to Instagram as normal and follow the on-screen instructions if you'd like to file an appeal.
  • There's no way to reactivate a deleted Instagram account, so your only option is to create a new one.

This article explains how to reactivate an Instagram account using the Instagram app or website.

Reactivating Your Instagram Account

If you've temporarily disabled your account, however, you can reactivate it whenever you wish. It is recommended that you wait at least 24 hours to do so, as it takes some time for the initial deactivation process to be completed.

reactivate Instagram account screenshot

When you're ready to reactivate, follow these steps:

  1. Open the Instagram app or visit the Instagram website.
  2. Log in using your credentials.

If you've entered your name and password correctly and successfully authenticated, your account has been reactivated. There is no special process to follow.

If you chose to delete your Instagram account, the action cannot be undone. A deleted account is not recoverable; you'll need to create a brand-new account.

Resetting Your Instagram Password

If you're still having trouble and cannot seem to log in, then you may need to reset your password first.

reset your Instagram password screenshot

To reset your password, follow these steps:

  1. Open the Instagram app.
  2. On the login screen, select the Forgot password? link. 

Retrieve a link to reset your password either by phone or username. Authenticate using your linked Facebook account if one is available.

Recovering a Suspended Instagram Account

Some Instagram accounts become disabled without the owner's consent—usually when someone violated the social media service's usage terms by posting inappropriate content or engaging in other unacceptable behavior. In these cases, reactivating your account is not as simple and not always possible.

There is an appeal process in place, however, where you can state your case and hope for some leniency. If your account has been suspended, login to Instagram as you normally would and follow the on-screen instructions that appear upon authentication if you'd like to file an appeal.

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