How to Reactivate Instagram? A Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your Account Back
Instagram is an essential part of many people’s social and professional lives. But what happens if your account gets deactivated—whether intentionally or by accident? Panic might be your first instinct, but don’t worry. In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly how to reactivate Instagram and get back to scrolling, posting, and connecting in no time.
Why Was Your Instagram Account Deactivated?
Before jumping into reactivation, it’s crucial to understand why your account was deactivated in the first place. Instagram deactivates accounts for several reasons, including:
- Voluntary Deactivation – You manually deactivated your account and now want it back.
- Policy Violations – Instagram removed your account due to breaches of their community guidelines.
- Hacking or Unauthorized Access – Your account was compromised and disabled for security reasons.
- Unintentional Disabling – Sometimes, Instagram deactivates accounts by mistake.
Understanding the reason behind your account deactivation will determine how you should proceed with reactivation.
How to Reactivate Instagram? (For Temporarily Deactivated Accounts)
If you’ve manually deactivated your account, reactivating it is straightforward:
- Open the Instagram App or go to Instagram’s website.
- Enter Your Login Credentials – Use your username, email, or phone number and password.
- Click on ‘Log In’ – Your account should be reactivated immediately.
Note: Instagram requires you to wait at least 24 hours after deactivation before reactivating your account.
How to Recover a Disabled or Banned Instagram Account?
If Instagram disabled your account due to a policy violation, the reactivation process is more complicated. Here’s what you need to do:
Submit an Appeal to Instagram
- Go to the login page and try logging in.
- If you see a message that your account is disabled, click on “Learn More”.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to submit an appeal.
- If you believe it was a mistake, provide a detailed explanation and any supporting evidence.
Use the Help Center Form
Alternatively, you can fill out the Instagram Appeal Form to request a review.
- Select “I can’t access my account” and follow the prompts.
- Instagram may ask you to verify your identity by uploading a photo of yourself holding a handwritten code.
- Submit the form and wait for a response (this can take a few days to several weeks).
Check Your Email
Instagram usually sends an email regarding your account deactivation. If they ask for additional verification, respond promptly to increase your chances of account recovery.
What to Do If Your Instagram Account Was Hacked?
A hacked account can be stressful, but Instagram provides ways to recover it:
Reset Your Password
- Go to the login page and click on “Forgot password?”
- Enter your email, username, or phone number to receive a reset link.
- Follow the instructions to set a new strong password.
Use Instagram’s Hacked Account Page
Visit Instagram’s Hacked Account Help and follow the steps to secure your account.
Check for Unusual Activity
- Go to Settings > Security > Login Activity.
- Look for unfamiliar devices or locations.
- If you see anything suspicious, log out from all devices and change your password.
Common Problems & Solutions When Reactivating Instagram
Forgot password? Use “Forgot Password” to reset it via email or phone number.
Account says “Not Found” Wait 24 hours after deactivation before trying again.
Still disabled after appeal? Submit another appeal or contact Instagram support.
No response from Instagram? Try again after a week or use a different appeal form.
Losing access to your Instagram account can be frustrating, but in most cases, reactivation is possible with the right steps. Whether you’ve deactivated it yourself, been hacked, or disabled due to policy violations, following the right recovery process can help you get back on track.
If you find yourself locked out for an extended period, keep trying appeals and be patient—Instagram’s support team does respond, even if it takes time. Need help recovering your Instagram? Try the steps above and regain control today!
FAQs
How long does it take to reactivate an Instagram account?
For voluntarily deactivated accounts, reactivation is instant. If your account was disabled, it could take a few days to weeks.
Can I reactivate a permanently deleted Instagram account?
No, if your account was permanently deleted, it cannot be recovered.
Why is Instagram not letting me log in after deactivation?
Instagram requires at least 24 hours after deactivation before allowing you to log back in.
How can I contact Instagram for help?
Use the Help Center or try reporting an issue through the app.
Can I recover an account banned for violating Instagram’s policies?
You can appeal the decision, but there is no guarantee of reactivation if Instagram upholds the ban.
What if my Instagram is linked to Facebook?
Try logging in via Facebook to see if you can regain access.
Will my followers and posts be restored after reactivation?
Yes, everything will be restored exactly as it was before.
Can I use a different email to recover my account?
Only the registered email or phone number can be used for recovery.