In 2026, Google provides two distinct ways to handle account removal: deleting your entire Google Account (which includes YouTube, Drive, and Photos) or deleting just the Gmail service while keeping your other Google data intact.
Here is the step-by-step guide to both methods.
Before You Start: Back Up Your Data
Deletion is permanent. If you have years of emails, use Google Takeout to download a copy of your messages first:
- Go to takeout.google.com.
- Select Deselect all, then scroll down and check only Mail.
- Choose your file type (usually .zip) and wait for Google to email you the download link.
Option 1: Delete ONLY Gmail (Keep Your Google Account)
Use this if you want to stop using Gmail but still want to keep your YouTube history, Google Play purchases, and Google Drive files.
- Sign In: Go to your Google Account settings.
- Navigate: Tap the Data & privacy tab at the top or side menu.
- Find Services: Scroll down to “Data from apps and services you use” and select Delete a Google service.
- Verify: You will be asked to enter your password or use your passkey/FaceID.
- Remove Gmail: Find Gmail in the list and tap the Trash Can icon next to it.
- Provide a New Login: Google requires a non-Gmail address (like Outlook or iCloud) to serve as your new login for your remaining Google services.
- Confirm: Open the verification email sent to your alternative address and click the link to finalize the deletion.
Option 2: Delete Your ENTIRE Google Account
Use this for a total digital wipe. This will erase your emails, files, photos, and YouTube channel permanently.
- Sign In: Access your Google Account.
- Navigate: Tap the Data & privacy tab.
- More Options: Scroll all the way to the bottom to the “More options” section.
- Delete Account: Tap Delete your Google Account.
- Acknowledge: Read the warnings carefully. Google will list all the data that will be lost.
- Finalize: Scroll to the bottom, check both acknowledgement boxes, and tap Delete Account.
Deletion vs. Service Removal
| Feature | Delete Just Gmail | Delete Entire Google Account |
| Emails & Contacts | Erased forever. | Erased forever. |
| YouTube Channel | Saved (accessible via new email). | Erased forever. |
| Google Drive/Photos | Saved. | Erased forever. |
| Android Phone Access | Still works (must update login). | Lost (device may require reset). |
| Recovery Window | Usually 2–3 weeks. | Very short (usually a few days). |
Also Read: How To Delete TikTok Account Permanently
Important Reminders
- Third-Party Logins: If you used “Sign in with Google” for apps like Spotify, Pinterest, or your bank, you must change those login methods before deleting your account, or you will be locked out.
- Username Reuse: Once a Gmail address is deleted, Google never allows anyone (including you) to use that exact username again.
- The Grace Period: If you realize you made a mistake, try logging in immediately at accounts.google.com/signin/recovery. You may have a very small window to restore the account.
