Wikipedia:Changing username/Simple/Front matter/Instructions

Once you have decided on the name you would like:

1. Read this page first. You must be aware of, and understand, all of that information before requesting a username change
2. Check to make sure this username is not already in use. Do this by searching for the name here. If the name appears in the results, even if on another Wikimedia project, it is taken.
3. Do not create an account under the new name or move/redirect your userpages. We'll do that for you.
4. Log in with your present username in order to place your request. Renames will not be approved if the requester is not logged in.
5. Click here to place your request.
   • Add your desired username after NEW=
   • Add a reason for the change after REASON=
   • Do not change anything after CURRENT=
6. Make sure that you have spelt your desired name correctly, including capitalization and spacing. Save the page. If your request is submitted malformed, please remedy it according to this page.
7. Check back on this page periodically to answer any questions that may arise regarding your request. Please be patient. It may take a few days for your request to be completed. If you do not answer any questions, your request may be declined due to no response.
8. Once your request has been completed, please do not remove or change your request. It will be archived automatically by a bot.

• Requests that do not adhere to these instructions or that are grossly malformed are subject to removal.