How to Delete or Deactivate Pokémon GO Account (2026 Guide)

Thinking about quitting Pokémon GO or starting fresh with a new account? Whether you’re trying to manage your playtime, protect your privacy, or help a child move on from the game, sometimes the best option is to deactivate your Pokémon GO account. Read this blog and learn how to delete Pokémon GO account step by step.

You can request to permanently delete your Pokémon GO account, but keep in mind that once it is gone, it cannot be restored. Here’s how to do it clearly, step by step:

1 Delete Through the Pokémon GO App

1. Sign in to the Pokémon GO account you want to remove.

2. Tap the Poké Ball, then open Settings (gear icon).

3. Scroll down and tap Advanced Settings.

4. Choose Delete Account.

5. Follow the on-screen instructions to confirm your request.

2 Delete Through the Pokémon GO Support Website

1. Go to the official Pokémon GO Support or Help Center.

2. Find the Account Deletion Request Form.

3. Fill in the form with your email address and Trainer nickname linked to the account you want to close.

4. In the Issue Category, select Delete My Account.

5. If you wish, explain your reason for closing the account.

6. Complete the captcha or security check and click Submit.

After submitting, you will not receive an immediate confirmation. Instead, check your email for a message from Pokémon GO Support. This email will include a special confirmation code and explain that it is your final chance to change your mind.

To complete the process, reply to that email with the provided code. Once verified, Scopely (formerly Niantic) will process your request and your account and all data will be permanently removed, usually within a few weeks.

Important Reminders

Deleting your account is permanent. You cannot cancel the request once it has been processed. If you decide to play Pokémon GO again in the future, you will not be able to reuse the same email address or Trainer nickname from the deleted account.

When you permanently delete your Pokémon GO account, all game data is wiped. This means your Pokémon, items, PokéCoins, buddy progress, shiny collection, raid stats, friends list — everything — will be erased from Scopely’s servers.

Keep in mind:

Accidentally deleted Pokémon GO or logged out and can’t get back in? Don’t panic — in many cases, you can recover your account, as long as it hasn’t been permanently deleted through an official deletion request.

Here’s how to recover your Pokémon GO account:

1 Try Your Original Login

Pokémon GO accounts are linked to your Google, Facebook, Apple ID, or Pokémon Trainer Club account. Make sure you’re logging in with the same method you used when you created your account.

2 Check for Typos & Multiple Emails

Sometimes the issue is as simple as logging in with the wrong email or account type. Double-check that you’re using the correct login credentials.

3 Contact Support

If you’re still locked out, visit the official Pokémon GO Help Center and submit a “Lost Account” or “Unable to Sign In” request. Provide as much info as possible, like your Trainer name, last known level, team, and linked email. Support may ask for proof to verify it’s really you.

Note

If you submitted an official account deletion request and it has already been processed, recovery is usually not possible. Once the data is wiped, it’s permanent.

Pokémon GO does not have an official “pause” or “temporary deactivation” option. If you want a break, your best bet is to simply stop logging in. Your account will stay intact, and you can return anytime without losing your Pokémon or progress.

If you don’t want reminders:

1．Can I get my Pokémon GO account back after deleting it?

Once your deletion request is fully processed, your account is permanently removed and cannot be recovered. If you just want a break, consider logging out instead.

2．How long does it take to delete a Pokémon GO account?

It usually takes a few days to a few weeks for Scopely to process and complete an account deletion request.

3．Can I deactivate my Pokémon GO account temporarily?

Pokémon GO does not offer a true pause or temporary deactivation. If you want to stop playing, simply log out or uninstall the app. Your account will stay intact.

4．How do I recover my Pokémon GO account if I forgot my login?

Use the same login method (Google, Apple, Facebook, or Pokémon Trainer Club) you used to create the account. If you still can’t sign in, submit a request through the Help Center with as much info as possible.

Deleting your Pokémon GO account is a big step. Once your data is gone, it’s gone for good. Make sure you really want a clean break before submitting your request. If you just need a break, logging out or deleting the app is usually enough to put the game on pause.

Whatever you decide, now you know exactly how to delete or deactivate your Pokémon GO account safely and permanently.

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Article by Ryan Miles

Ryan Miles is a seasoned gamer and mobile strategy writer with over 5 years of hands-on experience in Pokémon GO spoofing and GPS-based games. Known for breaking down complex location tricks into beginner-friendly guides, Ryan’s mission is simple: help you explore more, catch faster, and play smarter without ever leaving home.