X: get back in or close for good

What X itself says, in plain words. We link to every source. Platform rules change, so check the link before you act. This is not legal advice.

Get back in

• Use the X regain access form. Its options include:

  • forgot password
  • two-factor problem
  • hacked
  • reactivate, deactivate or close
  • appeal a locked or suspended account
  (Source: X Help Centre. Checked 25 October 2026.)
• X says: "Log in at least every 30 days to keep your account active." (Source: X Help Centre. Checked 25 October 2026.)

Close it for good

• After you deactivate, the account stays deactivated for 30 days. Then it is deleted. (Source: X Help Centre. Checked 25 October 2026.)

• X says: "Unless you can contact us from the confirmed email address (or have access to the verified mobile number on the account), we cannot deactivate the account on your behalf."

  This means X can only deactivate the account for you if you can contact it from the confirmed email address, or you have access to the verified mobile number on the account.

  (Source: X Help Centre. Checked 25 October 2026.)

Download your data first

• Log in, then download your archive. X sends a code to the email or phone on the account. (Source: X Help Centre. Checked 25 October 2026.)

If the person has died

• These people can ask X to deactivate the account:

  • an authorised estate representative
  • a verified immediate family member

  They need to give ID and a death certificate. X never gives access.

  (Source: X Help Centre. Checked 25 October 2026.)
• If the person cannot act for themselves (incapacitated): power of attorney. (Source: X Help Centre. Checked 25 October 2026.)

Your username after deletion

• After deletion, "your username will be available for registration by other X accounts". (Source: X Help Centre. Checked 25 October 2026.)
• X says: "We cannot release inactive usernames at this time." (Source: X Help Centre. Checked 25 October 2026.)

Privacy contact, for letters

• Privacy form: help.x.com/en/forms/privacy. (Source: X Privacy Policy. Checked 25 October 2026.)
• Post: X Internet Unlimited Company, Attn: Data Protection Officer, One Cumberland Place, Fenian Street, Dublin 2, D02 AX07. (Source: X Privacy Policy. Checked 25 October 2026.)

Next steps