Google Lets Users Change Their @gmail.com Email Address
- Key Takeaways:
- Google is rolling out a feature that lets users replace their @gmail.com primary address without creating a new account.
- The old address becomes an alias; messages to both addresses land in the same inbox and stored data (Drive, Google Photos, purchases) remains intact.
- You can sign in with either address, but you cannot change the @gmail.com address again for 12 months; managed accounts may be excluded.
What changed for Gmail users
Google has begun a gradual rollout allowing users to change the primary @gmail.com email attached to a Google Account. This removes the previous requirement to create a new account when you wanted a new username.
The update is a notable change to Google Account identity management and is documented in Google's support pages for account email settings.
How the change works
When you pick a new @gmail.com address, Google converts your previous primary address into an alias. That means you will continue to receive mail sent to the old address in the same inbox.
All account data — including Google Drive files, Google Photos, and purchase history tied to Google services — is preserved. You can authenticate with either the new or old email address when signing in to Google services.
Limits and safeguards
To prevent abuse, Google enforces a 12-month cooldown: once you change your @gmail.com address, you cannot pick another new @gmail.com for that account for the next year. However, Google allows you to revert to your original address at any time.
These guardrails aim to balance user flexibility with abuse mitigation and account stability.
Third-party access and reauthentication
Changing the primary identifier can create friction with services that use “Sign in with Google.” Third-party sites, apps, and devices (including Chromebooks and Chrome Remote Desktop) may require re-authentication or settings adjustments after you change your email.
Google recommends backing up important data and checking connected apps before proceeding.
How to check availability and make the change
Check eligibility
- Visit myaccount.google.com/google-account-email on a computer.
- Open Personal Information from the left-hand menu.
- Under Contact info, click Google Account email and look for Change your Google Account email address.
If you see the option, follow the prompts to choose a new username. If the option is missing, the feature hasn’t rolled out to your account or region yet.
Who can’t change their address
Accounts managed by schools, workplaces, or other organizations typically cannot change their address without administrator approval.
Bottom line
This rollout gives Gmail users long-requested control over their primary address while preserving history, data, and access. Check your Google Account settings to see if the option has reached your account.
