Which form of the ID to use
Channels and supergroups have one number, written in two ways. The result above shows both.
| Where | Form | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Bot API chat_id | With the -100 prefix | -1001234567890 |
| Link to a post in a private chat | Without -100 | t.me/c/1234567890/25 |
Find the ID of a private channel or group
A private chat has no public page, so this tool cannot read it. If you are a member, use one of these three ways.
- Telegram Web: open the chat at web.telegram.org. The address ends with # and the ID. If it does not start with -100, write -100 in front of the digits.
- Telegram Desktop: in Settings, Advanced, Experimental settings, turn on Show Peer IDs in Profile, then open the chat's profile.
- Your own bot: add the bot to the chat as an admin, post a message, then read chat.id in the getUpdates response.
Read more
- Telegram channel checker
- Telegram group age checker
- Telegram ID to date table
- How to find a Telegram user ID
- All free Telegram tools
Ready to buy? Compare published prices by creation year to buy old Telegram channels or buy old Telegram groups.
Frequently asked questions
What is a Telegram chat ID?
It is the permanent number Telegram gives a channel or group. Bots and API tools use it to send messages to that chat. For channels and supergroups it starts with -100.
Do I need to add a bot to the chat?
No. Paste the public link and the ID appears on this page. The tool reads public information only.
Does a chat ID ever change?
It stays the same when the title, photo or username changes. The exception is a small group: it gets a new ID when it becomes a supergroup.
Can I find the ID of a person or a bot here?
No. The tool works with public channels and groups only. To see your own ID, follow our guide to finding a Telegram user ID.
Can I open a chat from its ID?
Only if you are already a member. Drop the -100 and open t.me/c/1234567890/1 with your own ID. Telegram has no public way to find a chat from its ID alone.
What does the ID say about a chat's age?
Channels and supergroups share one ID series issued in blocks, so the ID points to a period. The result shows that period as an estimate. A group can be older than its ID.
Is it safe to share a chat ID?
Yes. An ID alone cannot be used to join or control a chat. The thing to keep secret is your bot token.
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