How to Delete Instagram Account: Everything You Need to Know

Here are the steps to delete an Instagram account via the application on your cellphone:

1. Open the Instagram application and ensure you are logged in to the account you want to delete.
2. Access Settings: Tap your profile icon (usually in the bottom right corner), then look for the three horizontal lines (menu) icon in the top right corner. Tap the menu.
3. Find 'Account Center': Tap the 'Account Center' option.
4. Personal Details: Tap 'Personal Details'.
5. Account Ownership and Control: Tap 'Account Ownership and Control'.
6. Deactivation or Deletion: Tap 'Deactivation or Deletion'.
7. Select Account: Select the Instagram account you want to delete.
8. Delete Account: Tap 'Delete Account'. You may be asked to enter your password.
9. Confirmation: Follow the next instructions to confirm the account's deletion. You may need to select a reason for deleting the account.

If you prefer using a computer, here are the steps:

1. Open the Instagram website: Visit instagram.com using a web browser.
2. Sign in: Sign in to the Instagram account you want to delete.
3. Access Account Deletion Settings: You may need to look for a help link or privacy settings to find the account deletion option. Some sources mention links like help.instagram.com or a direct link to the account deletion page.
4. Select Reason: Choose a reason why you want to delete your account.
5. Enter Password: Enter your account password for verification.
6. Confirm: Click the 'Delete [your username]' or 'Delete Account' button to confirm your decision.

The Instagram account deletion process can take up to 90 days. During this period, your account is still registered with Instagram's system, but cannot be accessed by anyone else. After 90 days, your information will be permanently deleted, unless Instagram needs to keep it for legal reasons, violation of terms, or prevention of harm. Once your account is deleted, you can no longer access your data through Instagram's data download tool.

You may be able to re-register with the same username as long as someone else has not used it. Alternatively, you can deactivate your account if you just want to take a break for a while. The steps are similar, but you will select the 'Deactivate Account' option.

This information is current as of November 2023. Instagram may change its interface and procedures at any time, so the steps above may vary slightly depending on the version of the app or website you are using. Always check the latest instructions provided by Instagram itself.