How to Delete Telegram Account Permanently (2026 Step-by-Step Guide)

 

How to Delete Telegram Account: The Complete Step-by-Step Guide (2026)

Are you ready to say goodbye to Telegram? Whether you are concerned about privacy, tired of notifications, or simply decluttering your digital life, deleting your account is a permanent solution. This guide covers everything you need to know to delete your Telegram account safely and instantly.

Article Overview

• Topic: How to Permanently Delete Telegram Account

• Target Audience: General Users (USA & Global)

• Difficulty: Easy

• Time Required: 5–10 Minutes

• Key Tools: Web Browser, Telegram App

Introduction

In the fast-paced world of instant messaging, Telegram has carved out a massive user base thanks to its cloud-based features and large group capabilities. However, as we move through 2026, many users are re-evaluating their digital footprint. Concerns over data privacy, the sheer volume of spam in public channels, or a simple desire for a "digital detox" are leading many to ask one crucial question: How do I delete my Telegram account permanently?

Deleting an app from your phone is easy, but deleting your account—and wiping your data from the server—requires a few specific steps. Unlike some social media platforms that hide the delete button behind mazes of menus, Telegram offers two distinct ways to say goodbye: an immediate deletion via a web browser and an automatic self-destruct feature inside the app.

In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through both methods, explain exactly what happens to your data, and help you back up your important memories before you pull the plug.

Before Deleting: A Final Checklist You Can’t Undo

Deleting your Telegram account is irreversible. Once you press that final button, there is no "undo" option. Before you proceed, it is highly recommended that you take a few minutes to secure your data and notify your network.

1. Back Up Your Data (Don't Lose Your Memories)

When you delete your account, you lose access to all your messages, photos, videos, and files shared in cloud chats. Telegram does not store this data for you after deletion.

To save your chat history:

1. Open Telegram Desktop on your computer (this feature is not available on mobile).

2. Go to Settings > Advanced.

3. Scroll down and click on Export Telegram Data.

4. Select what you want to save: account info, contact list, personal chats, bot chats, and media.

5. Click Export. You can now view your history offline as an HTML file.

2. Transfer Group Ownership

If you are the owner of any Telegram groups or channels, your departure will leave them "orphaned." While the group will continue to exist, it may lack a designated owner to manage specific settings.

• Action Step: Go to your Group Info > Edit > Administrators > Add Admin. Select a trusted member and enable "Transfer Group Ownership" rights before you leave.

3. Notify Important Contacts

Since your account will vanish, your friends will see a "Deleted Account" ghost profile in their chat list. They won't be able to reply to you. Send a broadcast message or update your bio a day in advance to let people know where else they can find you (e.g., Signal, WhatsApp, or email).

Method 1: How to Delete Telegram Account Immediately (The Browser Method)

This is the most popular method for users who want their account gone right now. Curiously, you cannot find an "Instant Delete" button inside the standard Android app. You must use a web browser (Chrome, Safari, Firefox, etc.) on your phone or computer.

Step 1: Visit the Deactivation Page

Navigate to the official Telegram authorization page.

• URL: https://my.telegram.org/delete

• Note: Always verify you are on the official telegram.org domain to avoid phishing sites.

Step 2: Enter Your Phone Number

A box will appear prompting you to enter your phone number. You must enter it in the international format.

• Format: +(Country Code)(Your Number)

• Example (USA): +15550123456

• Click Next.

Step 3: Receive the Confirmation Code

This is where many users get stuck. Telegram will NOT send you an SMS. Instead, they send the confirmation code via the Telegram app on your phone or desktop.

• Open the Telegram app.

• Look for a message from the official "Telegram" service account (it usually has a blue verified checkmark).

• Copy the long alphanumeric code sent in that message.

Step 4: Confirm Deletion

1. Go back to your browser and paste the code into the "Confirmation Code" field.

2. Click Sign In.

3. You will be redirected to a page titled "Delete Your Account".

4. Telegram will ask, "Why are you leaving?" (This step is optional—you may skip it or simply enter “Privacy concerns.").

5. Click the Delete My Account button.

Step 5: The Final Warning

A confirmation pop-up will appear asking if you want to proceed, warning that the action is permanent.

• Click Yes, delete my account.

Congratulations! Your account is now permanently deleted. If you try to open the app on your phone, you will be greeted with the registration screen.

Method 2: The Self-Destruct Feature (In-App Automation)

If you are not in a rush and want to ensure your account is deleted if you ever stop using it, Telegram has a built-in security feature called Account Self-Destruct. This is enabled by default for all users, usually set to 6 months.

This method is perfect for users who want a "safety net"—ensuring their data doesn't sit on a server forever if they lose access to their phone or pass away.

How to Set Up Auto-Deletion:

1. Open the Telegram App on your iPhone or Android.

2. Tap on Settings (Gear icon on iOS, three lines > Settings on Android).

3. Select Privacy and Security.

4. Scroll down to the section labeled "Delete My Account".

5. Tap on "If Away For..."

6. Choose your preferred time frame:

   • 1 Month (Fastest option)

   • 3 Months

   • 6 Months (Default)

   • 1 Year

How it works: If you do not come online (open the app) for the selected period, Telegram will automatically wipe your account, contacts, and messages from their servers. You don't need to do anything else.

Method 3: Deleting Telegram on iPhone (iOS Exclusive)

For iPhone users, the process is slightly more streamlined than on Android. Recent updates to the iOS app have included a direct deletion button, removing the absolute need for a browser.

1. Open Telegram on your iPhone.

2. Go to Settings > Privacy and Security.

3. Scroll to the very bottom.

4. Look for the option "Delete Account Now" (Note: If this is missing in your version, use Method 1).

5. Follow the on-screen prompts to confirm.

This feature simplifies the process significantly for Apple users, aligning with Apple's stricter App Store guidelines regarding account data control.

What Happens When You Delete Your Account?

Understanding the consequences is vital. Here is a breakdown of the aftermath:

1. Data Erasure

Your cloud data is wiped. This includes your message history in cloud chats, photos, videos, and files. They are removed from Telegram's disk storage. Note that Secret Chats are stored only on your device, so deleting the app deletes them, but deleting the account wipes the encryption key, making them inaccessible regardless.

2. Groups and Channels

• Groups you created: They remain active. The members can still chat. The creator tag disappears, and the group continues without an "Owner" unless you transferred rights.

• Channels: Similar to groups, channels remain visible to subscribers, but no new posts can be made if there are no other admins.

3. Your Phone Number

Your phone number is "freed" immediately, but Telegram may impose a cooldown period. If you try to sign up again immediately with the same number, you might see an error message telling you to wait a few days. This is a spam prevention measure.

4. Your Username

Your unique @username becomes available for anyone else to claim. If you had a rare or valuable username, it will be up for grabs the moment you delete your account.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even simple processes can have hiccups. Here are solutions to the most common problems users face in 2026.

"I didn't receive the confirmation code!"

• The Problem: You are waiting for an SMS text message.

• The Fix: Check the Telegram App on your phone or computer. The code is sent as a chat message from Telegram Service, not as a text to your carrier.

"It says 'Phone Number Invalid'."

• The Problem: Incorrect formatting.

• The Fix: Ensure you are not including spaces or dashes. Use the full international code (e.g., +1 for USA, +44 for UK) followed immediately by the number.

"Can I recover my deleted account?"

• The Reality: No. Once deleted, it is gone forever. Even if you sign up again with the exact same number, you will be treated as a brand-new user. You will not get your old messages or contacts back.

Privacy vs. Convenience: Why Delete?

Why are so many users leaving? In 2026, the digital landscape is shifting.

• Notification Overload: The constant buzz of bot notifications and channel updates can harm mental health.

• Privacy Concerns: While Telegram is secure, it is not "End-to-End Encrypted" by default for regular chats (only Secret Chats are). Users seeking default encryption often migrate to Signal.

• Spam: The rise of crypto-bots and spam accounts inviting users to random groups has become a major annoyance for many.

If you are just tired of notifications, consider simply disabling notifications or deleting the app without deleting the account. This keeps your data safe if you ever decide to return.

Conclusion

Deleting your Telegram account is a powerful step toward reclaiming your digital privacy or simply simplifying your life. Whether you choose the instant browser deletion method or the passive self-destruct timer, the result is the same: a clean slate.

Remember, this action is permanent. Ensure you have backed up any precious photos or chats before you proceed. If you are switching to a new messaging platform, make sure to invite your close friends and family so you don't lose touch.

Ready to leave? If you have made up your mind, head over to the Telegram Deactivation Page and follow the steps outlined above.

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes. We are not affiliated with Telegram. All steps are accurate as of January 2026. Always refer to the official Telegram FAQ for the latest policy updates.

Quick Comparison: Which Deletion Method is Right for You?

Feature	Instant Deletion (via Browser)	Auto Self-Destruct (In-App)
Speed	Immediate. Your account vanishes the moment you confirm.	Delayed. Happens after 1, 3, 6, or 12 months of inactivity.
Best For	Users who want to leave right now for privacy or detox.	Users who want a safety net if they stop using the app.
Requirements	Web browser access + confirmation code sent to Telegram.	Access to the Telegram mobile app settings.
Effort Level	Moderate (Requires manual steps & backup).	Set-and-forget (Automated process).
Data Status	Wiped instantly from servers.	Wiped only after the timer expires.