Whether you’re switching apps, scaling back on screen time, or simply starting fresh, Telegram gives you a few ways to close your account for good.
In this guide, you’ll learn every method available in 2025: how to delete a Telegram account instantly in a browser, how to do it from the iPhone app, how to set your account to self-destruct after inactivity, and what you need to prepare before pulling the plug.
We’ll also cover what happens once you delete, plus troubleshooting tips if things don’t go smoothly.
Prepare Your Account Before Deleting
Once a Telegram account is deleted, it’s permanent. Messages, contacts, media, and groups tied to that account vanish. Before you commit, it’s smart to take a few steps.
Export Chats, Media, And Files
Telegram Desktop includes an Export Telegram Data option. You'll find it in Settings → Advanced → Export Telegram Data. This lets you save chats as HTML files, download media, and keep an offline archive. It's a lifesaver if you want to hold on to essential conversations or files.
Transfer Channel Or Group Ownership
If you own a channel or manage a large group, make sure you assign another admin before deleting your account. Otherwise, those communities might lose an active owner.
Check Connected Sessions
Head to Settings → Devices and review active sessions. Log out of any devices you don't recognize. This ensures your account is secure right up until the moment it's deleted.
Delete Immediately In A Browser
The most straightforward method is through the official Telegram website. Here’s how:
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1. Go to my.telegram.org in your browser.
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2. Enter your phone number in international format.
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3. Telegram will send you a login code inside the app, not by SMS.
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4. Enter that code on the website.
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5. Once logged in, select Delete Account.
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6. You may be asked to give a reason, but this step is optional.
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7. Confirm, and your account is permanently removed.
This option works on any device, whether you’re on a desktop, iPhone, or Android.
Delete From The App On iPhone
If you're using iOS, Telegram makes it possible to remove your account directly in the app.
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1. Open Telegram and go to Settings
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2. Tap Privacy and Security
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3. Scroll down to If Away For
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4. Select Delete Account Now
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5. Confirm when prompted
The account is erased immediately. Note that this shortcut isn't available in the same way on Android.
Set Auto Delete After Inactivity
If you're not ready to delete right away, Telegram offers an auto-delete feature. Your account will be removed if you stay inactive for the time period you choose.
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1. Go to Settings → Privacy and Security
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2. Tap Delete My Account If Away For
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3. Pick a time frame: 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, or 1 year
If you don't log in during that window, Telegram will automatically erase your account and all its data. Simply opening the app resets the timer.
This is useful if you just want to step away without remembering to come back and delete later.
What Happens After You Delete
Deleting is final. Once confirmed:
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All chats, media, contacts, and groups linked to your account are removed.
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You can’t reactivate the same account.
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If you sign up again with the same number, it’s treated as a new account. In some cases, there’s a waiting period before you can reuse the number.
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Groups and channels you managed may lose an owner if you didn’t transfer admin rights.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
I Didn't Receive The Login Code
Codes are delivered through Telegram itself, not by text. Make sure you still have access to the app on at least one device. If not, reinstall and log in first.
I Can't Access Telegram To Read The Code
If you've lost access to all devices and can't get the login code, you won't be able to delete the account immediately. You'll need to regain access to the number or wait for the auto-delete period.
Delete Button Missing on iPhone
If the option doesn't appear in Privacy and Security, update to the latest version of Telegram. If it still doesn't show, use the browser method.
I Only Want A Break
Instead of deleting, set an inactivity timer. That way, if you don't come back, the account will still be erased automatically.
Safety Note
Only use official Telegram links like my.telegram.org. Fake apps or "premium" versions sometimes circulate with phishing links. Always double-check before entering your number or code.
Privacy Notes You Should Know
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Once your account is gone, it’s gone. Exported data is saved locally on your device only.
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Deleting your account removes your presence from all groups and channels. Other members may still see old messages unless the chat was set to self-destruct.
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If you plan to return later, keep your phone number secure. You can always create a new account with it once Telegram allows reuse.
Pro Tip: When exporting data, choose the HTML option. It lets you browse your old conversations in a web browser, complete with media and stickers.
Boost Your Channel Before You Decide To Delete
Sometimes people think about deleting Telegram because their channel feels quiet or growth has stalled. Before taking that step, consider giving your channel a chance to gain traction.
You can quickly add real members to your channel with a dedicated premium service.
This not only makes your channel look more active but also helps attract organic users, since people are naturally drawn to communities that already have an audience.
A stronger member base can often give your channel the boost it needs, making deletion unnecessary and turning it into a space worth keeping and growing.
The Bottom Line
Although there are many benefits to owning a Telegram account, sometimes it’s necessary to delete it.
Closing a Telegram account is straightforward, but it's best to prepare beforehand. Back up any chats you want to keep, hand over group admin roles if needed, and be sure you’re comfortable with the choice since it can’t be undone.
You have a few ways to move forward: remove the account right away through the browser, use the quick option built into the iPhone app, or set Telegram to erase itself after a period of inactivity. Whichever route you take, the decision is yours, and you can leave the platform knowing your data is handled the way you prefer.
FAQs | Frequently Asked Questions |
Can I delete my account without the app installed?
Yes. You can go to my.telegram.org in a browser and complete the process as long as you can still receive the login code inside Telegram on another device.
Is there a way to delete right away on Android?
Not directly in the app. Use the browser method to delete immediately.
Will my old messages in other people’s chats disappear?
Your account has been removed, but the status of your messages depends on the type of chat. In groups, your name changes to “Deleted Account.” In one-on-one chats, the messages remain unless they were set to self-destruct.
Can I restore my account after deletion?
No. Once deleted, it cannot be restored. You can only create a new account.
What if I just want to take a break?
Set the inactivity timer. If you don’t come back within the chosen period, your account will automatically be erased.