How to Delete Facebook Account Permanently: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re looking to permanently delete your Facebook account, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process. Before proceeding, it’s important to know that once your account is deleted, you will lose access to all the information and content you’ve shared on Facebook, and this process is irreversible after a certain period.

Step-by-Step Guide to Permanently Delete Your Facebook Account

1. Backup Your Data (Optional but Recommended)

Before you delete your Facebook account, you may want to save a copy of your data, including photos, posts, and messages.

  1. Log in to Facebook on your desktop or mobile app.
  2. Click the downward arrow in the top-right corner (on desktop) or tap the three horizontal lines (on mobile).
  3. Go to Settings & Privacy, then select Settings.
  4. In the left column (on desktop), click Your Facebook Information.
  5. Choose Download Your Information.
  6. Select the data you want to download and click Create File.
  7. Facebook will prepare your data, and once it’s ready, you’ll be notified to download it.

2. Go to the Account Deletion Page

To start the account deletion process, follow these steps:

  1. Log in to Facebook.
  2. Go to the Facebook Account Deletion Page:
    https://www.facebook.com/help/delete_account.
  3. Click the Delete Account button.

3. Enter Your Password

You will be prompted to enter your Facebook password to confirm your identity. Do so, and click Continue.

4. Confirm Deletion

A pop-up will appear with information about account deletion. Click Delete Account to confirm.

5. Account Deletion Process

Facebook will begin the process of deleting your account. However, Facebook gives you a 30-day grace period during which you can change your mind.

  • During the 30-Day Period: If you log in to your Facebook account within 30 days of initiating the deletion, the deletion process will be canceled, and your account will be reactivated.
  • After 30 Days: Your account and all associated data will be permanently deleted, and you will no longer be able to retrieve it.

6. Deletion Confirmation

After the 30-day period has passed, your Facebook account will be permanently deleted. You will no longer be able to access or recover your account.

Important Notes to Consider Before Deleting Your Facebook Account

  • Data Loss: Once your account is deleted, all your posts, photos, messages, and other data will be lost permanently. You won’t be able to recover them.
  • Facebook Messenger: If you’re using Facebook Messenger and your Facebook account is deleted, you’ll also lose access to Messenger. However, if you want to keep Messenger, you can choose to deactivate your Facebook account instead of deleting it.
  • Apps and Services: If you’ve used Facebook to sign up for other apps or services (e.g., Spotify, Instagram), you may lose access to those services unless you update your login method beforehand.
  • Deactivation vs. Deletion: If you’re unsure about permanently deleting your account, you can always deactivate it instead. Deactivation hides your profile and content but allows you to recover your account later.

How to Deactivate Your Facebook Account (Temporary Option)

  • Go to Settings > Your Facebook Information > Account Ownership and Control.
  • Select Deactivation and Deletion.
  • Choose Deactivate Account and follow the prompts.