How do I recover a Facebook account that was accidentally deleted?
Answer
Facebook usually keeps deleted accounts in a short cancellation window where signing in can cancel the deletion. After that window, the account generally cannot be restored, and a new account may be required.
Before you start: stop right away if…
- Anyone offering paid recovery of a permanently deleted Facebook account is likely running a scam.
Follow these steps
Try signing in on the official site or app
Install Facebook from the App Store if needed, or open facebook.com, and sign in with the deleted account’s email or phone and password.
You should see: Facebook offers to cancel deletion and reactivate, or explains that restoration is no longer available.
Complete any reactivation confirmation
If Facebook shows a reactivation prompt, confirm it and finish any security checks sent to the account email or phone.
You should see: The account returns to normal access.
Secure the recovered account
After reactivation, change the password, review login sessions, and turn on two-factor authentication.
You should see: The account is usable and harder to take over again.
Accept permanent deletion if the window passed
If Facebook states the account is permanently deleted, stop using unofficial recovery services and create a new account only if needed.
You should see: No unsafe recovery attempt is made for an unrestorable account.
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Extra tips
What to look for: Sign-in messages about reactivation, permanent deletion, or disabled account status after an accidental delete
Before you change anything: Use the same email or phone that belonged to the deleted account. Prefer facebook.com or the official app only. Change passwords on email if the account was also compromised. Do not pay anyone claiming they can restore a permanently deleted profile.