PlusIDs

PlusIDs are unique digital identifiers used by the social media platform Reddit to distinguish between users and their accounts. Introduced in 2016, PlusIDs were designed to replace traditional usernames, which could be reused or deleted, with a more permanent and consistent system. Each PlusID is a combination of a user’s username and a unique numerical suffix, such as "u/username12345." This system helps maintain account continuity even if a username is changed or removed.

The primary purpose of PlusIDs is to ensure that users retain access to their accounts and associated content, such as comments, posts, and upvotes, even if their chosen username is no longer available. This is particularly useful for long-term users who may have built significant reputations or collections of content tied to their accounts. Additionally, PlusIDs help prevent confusion between users with similar or identical usernames.

While PlusIDs provide stability, they also introduce some limitations. For example, users cannot directly change their PlusID, as it is tied to their account’s history. If a user wishes to use a different username, they must create a new account, which may result in the loss of their original content and reputation. Reddit occasionally allows users to request a new PlusID in rare cases, such as account merges or severe username conflicts, but this is not a standard feature.

PlusIDs are widely used across Reddit’s interface, including in URLs, profile links, and discussions. They are particularly noticeable in subreddits where usernames are frequently reused or deleted. Overall, the system aims to balance user identity with the practical needs of a large-scale online community.