A username can change or disappear; the numeric ID never changes. That makes the ID the reliable way to identify an account, for example when you check a seller or an account someone offers you.
1. What a Telegram user ID is
A user ID is a number Telegram gives an account when it is created. Groups and channels have IDs too; in bot tools they usually appear with a -100 prefix. The ID stays the same when the name, username or photo changes.
2. Telegram Desktop: show IDs in every profile
- Open Settings, then Advanced, then Experimental settings.
- Turn on the option Show Peer IDs in Profile. If your version does not show it, update Telegram Desktop.
- Open any profile, group or channel: the ID now appears with the other profile information.
3. ID bots, used with care
Third-party bots such as @userinfobot reply with your own ID, and with someone else's ID when you forward one of their messages, unless their privacy settings hide forwarded messages. These bots are not run by Telegram: never send a bot a login code, a two-step password or session files.
4. Group and channel IDs
The same Telegram Desktop setting shows the ID of groups and channels. Bot developers see the same chats with a -100 prefix, for example in the chat ID a bot receives.
5. What a user ID tells you about an account
For years Telegram assigned user IDs in increasing order, so a lower ID usually means an older account. Our free age checker estimates the creation period from the ID: check an account's age. For firmer evidence, such as the joined month Telegram shows since March 2025, see how to check a Telegram creation date.
Frequently asked questions
Can I find a Telegram user ID from a username?
Yes. Open the profile in Telegram Desktop with Show Peer IDs in Profile turned on, or forward one of the person's messages to an ID bot.
Does a Telegram user ID ever change?
No. Names, usernames and photos can change, but the numeric ID stays the same for the life of the account.
Is it safe to share my Telegram user ID?
It is not a secret and cannot be used to sign in, but it does identify your account, so share it only when needed.
Can I find a phone number from a Telegram user ID?
No. Phone numbers are private unless the person shares them through their privacy settings.
What does a low Telegram user ID mean?
Usually an older account, because IDs were assigned in increasing order for years. The account age checker turns the ID into an estimated creation period.
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