How to Permanently Delete Your Facebook Account (2026 Guide)
June 15, 2026 • By TechEvangelist Team
⚠️ Download Your Facebook Data BEFORE Deleting
Once your Facebook account is permanently deleted, all your photos, videos, posts, and messages are gone forever. Always back up first!
Important: Deleting Facebook starts a 30-day grace period. If you log in during this time, the deletion is cancelled. After 90 days, all data is permanently erased with no recovery possible.
Deactivate vs Permanent Delete
| Action | Description | Recovery? |
|---|---|---|
| Deactivate | Temporary hide - profile invisible | Yes, anytime by logging in |
| Permanent Delete | Full removal after 90 days | No, after 90 days |
Step 1: Download Your Facebook Data
Before deleting, save your photos, videos, posts, and messages. Facebook lets you download everything they have on you.
- Go to Settings & Privacy → Settings
- Click "Your Facebook Information"
- Click "Download Your Information"
- Select what to include (or choose "Select All")
- Choose date range, format (HTML or JSON), and media quality
- Click "Request a Download" - you'll receive an email when ready
Step 2: Review Connected Apps and Services
Your Facebook login may be used in other apps. Remove connected apps you no longer use.
- Go to Settings → Apps and Websites
- Review all active apps using Facebook login
- Remove apps you no longer use or don't recognize
Step 3: Permanently Delete Your Facebook Account
On Desktop/Web
- Go to Settings & Privacy → Settings
- Click "Your Facebook Information"
- Click "Deletion and Transfer" next to "Deletion"
- Select "Permanently delete account" → Continue
- Enter your password and click "Delete Account"
On Mobile (Facebook App)
- Tap the menu (three lines) and go to Settings & Privacy
- Tap "Settings" → "Your Facebook Information"
- Tap "Deletion and Transfer"
- Select "Permanently delete account"
- Confirm with your password and tap "Delete Account"
What Gets Deleted vs What Remains
Will Be Deleted
- • Your profile and cover photo
- • All your posts and comments
- • Your photos and videos
- • Your friend list and pending requests
- • Pages you created
May Remain
- • Messages you sent to others (in their inbox)
- • Posts in groups (become anonymous)
- • Photos shared (if others downloaded them)
- • Server logs (up to 2 years)
How to Cancel Deletion
Changed your mind? You have 30 days to cancel:
- Log in to Facebook with your credentials
- Click "Cancel Deletion" when prompted
- Your account will be fully restored
Note: After the deletion completes (90 days), there is no way to recover your account. Download your data first and make sure you really want to leave.
FAQ
What's the difference between deactivating and deleting Facebook?
Deactivating hides your profile but Facebook keeps your data in case you want to return. Deleting removes everything permanently after a 30-day grace period.
How long does Facebook take to permanently delete my account?
After requesting deletion, Facebook gives you 30 days to cancel. If you don't cancel, complete deletion can take up to 90 days.
Can I recover my Facebook account after starting deletion?
Yes, within the 30-day grace period. Just log in and click "Cancel Deletion" to restore your account fully.
Will deleting Facebook also delete Instagram?
No. Deleting Facebook does not affect Instagram. They are separate accounts under Meta. You can manage both separately through the Meta Accounts Center.
What data should I download before deleting Facebook?
Download your photos, videos, posts, messages, and friend list. Use the "Download Your Information" tool in Settings.