How to Change Your Minecraft Username After Xbox Game Pass Expiration

If your Xbox Game Pass has expired and you want to change your Minecraft in-game name (IGN) to use it on a different account, don’t worry — the process is simple. Below, we’ll walk through what to do when your Game Pass expires and how to change your username to make it usable on another account.

Understanding Account Linking

When you access Minecraft through Xbox Game Pass, your game data and settings are linked to your Microsoft account. If your Game Pass subscription expires, your account may become inactive, but your Minecraft username (Gamertag) will typically remain tied to your Microsoft account.

• Important: Even after your Game Pass expires, your username is not automatically released. You’ll need to go through the process of changing it manually.

Steps to Change Your Minecraft Username (IGN)

1. Access Your Microsoft Account

First, make sure you’re logged into your Microsoft account:

• Go to the Microsoft Account website.
• Log in with the credentials you use for Minecraft.

2. Change Your Xbox Gamertag

Your Minecraft username is tied to your Xbox Gamertag. To change your username:

1. Visit the Change Xbox Gamertag page.
2. Enter the new username you want.
3. Click “Check Availability.”
4. If the name is available, follow the instructions to confirm and finalize the change.

Once completed, your new username will be reflected in Minecraft the next time you log in.

Tip: If you’re using Minecraft Java Edition, the process should be similar, but you may also need to update your profile name through the Minecraft website.

3. Important Considerations

• Username Lock Period: Once you change your Minecraft username, the previous one will be locked for 30 days before it can be used by someone else. This is to prevent people from taking usernames immediately after they’re changed.
• Account Linking: Make sure your Minecraft account is linked to your Microsoft account. This ensures your game data and settings are preserved across platforms.

4. Data Retention

Even if your Game Pass expires, your data may still be preserved on your Microsoft account, provided the account is active. You can purchase Minecraft again at any time, and your previous game data will be retained.

What to Do If You Can’t Change Your Username

If you’re unable to change your username due to Game Pass expiration or any other reason, you may need to contact Xbox Support for help recovering your account or username. Here are some helpful resources:

• Xbox Support: Change Xbox Live Gamertag
• Minecraft Forum Discussion on Game Pass Expiration
• Hypixel Forum Discussion on Game Pass Expiration