Learn how to change your email address name in Gmail, Outlook, Yahoo, and Apple Mail. Step-by-step guide with FAQs, tips, and common solutions.
How to Change Your Email Address Name
Do you want to change your email address name because you've changed your name, started a business, or simply want a more professional appearance? This guide explains how to update your display name in popular email services such as Gmail, Outlook, Yahoo Mail, and Apple Mail.
Note: In most email services, you can easily change the display name (the name people see when you send emails). However, you usually cannot change the actual email address (for example,
john123@gmail.com). If you want a different email address, you'll typically need to create a new account.
How to Change Your Name in Gmail
On a Computer
- Sign in to your Gmail account.
- Click the Settings (⚙️) icon.
- Select See all settings.
- Open the Accounts and Import tab.
- Under Send mail as, click Edit info.
- Enter your new display name.
- Click Save Changes.
On Mobile
The Gmail mobile app does not allow you to change your display name directly. Use a web browser on your phone or a computer to make the change.
How to Change Your Name in Outlook
- Sign in to your Outlook or Microsoft account.
- Open your Microsoft Account profile.
- Go to Your Info.
- Select Edit Name.
- Enter your new first and last name.
- Save your changes.
How to Change Your Name in Yahoo Mail
- Sign in to Yahoo Mail.
- Open Settings.
- Select More Settings.
- Open Mailboxes.
- Select your email account.
- Edit the Your Name field.
- Save the changes.
How to Change Your Name in Apple Mail (iCloud)
- Sign in to your Apple Account.
- Open your account settings.
- Update your personal information if available.
- Save the changes.
Can You Change Your Email Address?
It depends on your email provider.
Gmail
You cannot change the part before @gmail.com. For example:
❌ john123@gmail.com → johnsmith@gmail.com
To use a different Gmail address, create a new Gmail account.
Outlook
Some Microsoft accounts allow you to add or change aliases, depending on your account settings.
Yahoo Mail
Your primary Yahoo email address cannot usually be changed.
Common Problems
My new name isn't showing.
It may take some time for the change to appear. Ask a friend to check the name on a new email you send.
I want to change the actual email address.
Most email providers don't allow this. You'll usually need to create a new email account.
My contacts still see my old name.
Recipients may have saved your previous name in their contact list. They may need to update it manually.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Will changing my email name change my email address?
No. It only changes the display name that appears when you send emails.
Can I change my Gmail address without creating a new account?
No. Gmail does not allow you to change the @gmail.com address after it has been created.
Will I lose my emails if I change my display name?
No. Your emails, contacts, and account data remain unchanged.
Is changing my display name free?
Yes. Changing your display name is free.
Tips
- Use your real name for professional communication.
- Avoid nicknames when applying for jobs or sending business emails.
- Check how your new name appears by sending a test email.
- Keep your recovery email address and phone number updated for account security.
Conclusion
Changing your email address name is a quick way to keep your account professional and up to date. Whether you use Gmail, Outlook, Yahoo Mail, or Apple Mail, updating your display name only takes a few minutes. If you want to change the actual email address, you'll usually need to create a new account.
