By default, Roommates.com only displays your first name (or preferred name) to other users. Your last name is kept strictly private and will never appear on your public profile or listing.
How you update your displayed name depends on whether you have completed Legal ID Verification. All name updates are managed in Account Settings (not the "Edit Profile" page):
On Desktop & Mobile Browsers: Click or tap the Menu Icon (three horizontal lines) in the top-right corner > select Account Settings.
In the iOS App: Tap More in the bottom-right corner > select Account Settings.
Updating Your Name:
Option 1: Standard Accounts (ID Verification Not Completed)
If you have not completed Legal ID Verification, you can edit your name fields directly:
Go to Account Settings.
Edit the First Name or Last Name fields as needed.
Click Save Changes at the bottom of the page.
Option 2: ID-Verified Accounts (Using Preferred Name)
Completing Legal ID Verification locks your legal name to your account for identity security and fraud prevention. To display a nickname, alternate name, or remove a middle name after being verified:
Go to Account Settings.
Locate the Preferred Name field.
Enter your chosen nickname or preferred first name.
Click Save Changes at the bottom of the page.
Once saved, your Preferred Name will override your verified first name across all public listings, searches, and Message Center chats without altering your verified identity status.
Need More Help? If you have additional questions our Support Team is here to help! Please don’t hesitate to contact us through our Contact Page (or email us directly at support@roommates.com) and we’ll be happy to assist.