How to delete a Snapchat account

PHOTOS on Snapchat are here one minute and gone the next. But what if you want to say the same about your whole Snapchat account?

If you think it’s time to ditch the social media platform and move on to the next fad, here’s our handy how-to guide to quit the app.

It only takes a few simple steps to delete a Snapchat accountCredit: Getty – Contributor

How do I delete my Snapchat account?

If you want to delete your Snapchat account but still want to hold on to the memories, then never fear.

The social media platform allows you to download pictures, videos, stories and messages to a Zip file before you fully commit to cutting ties.

It’s also worth noting that you can’t delete your Snapchat account from the app on your phone – you have to go online to do it.

To say goodbye to your Snapchat account, follow these simple steps…

Snapchat will let you save the photos and messages you have shared on the app before you take the plunge and delete your accountCredit: Getty – Contributor

1. Go to the accounts portal at accounts.snapchat.com, and type in the username and password for the account you want to delete.

2. Scroll down to and click on the Delete Account button.

3. Where prompted, enter your username and password. Don’t forget these details, just in case you change your mind and want to re-activate your account.

Your account will then be deleted – but will remain active for 30 days, so you have plenty of time to change your mind.

Your Snapchat account will remain active for 30 days in case you change your mind and want to get it back

Before you take the above steps, you may wish to download your data from the app.

To do this, log in to your account on the website, not the app, and click on My Data in the account homepage.

Then go down to the bottom of the page and tap Submit Request.

A copy of your Snapchat data in a ZIP file should arrive in your verified email inbox within 24 hours.

You must do this before deleting your account or the file won’t arrive.

You can't delete your Snapchat account through the phone app - you can only do it online — You can’t delete your Snapchat account through the phone app – you can only do it onlineCredit: Getty – Contributor

How long before my Snapchat account is permanently deleted?

Before you hit the delete button, be aware that Snapchat keeps your data for 30 days so if you get cold feet, you can easily reinstall the app and pick up where you left off.

During this 30-day period, your friends will not be able to contact or interact with you on Snapchat.

After the 30 days are up, your account, account settings, friends, Snaps, Chats, Story, device data and location data in Snapchat’s database will be wiped.

While your account is deactivated, you can only log in with your username and password.