Help with username registration

The username I want is taken

If you try to select a username and see that it has already been claimed, you will need to select a different one. Remember the following:

• You can list your real name in your profile to provide more information to your followers.
  
• Adding underscores before or after your desired username will help you claim a unique username on {siteName}.
  Example: if you would like the username lindsay but it has been claimed, consider selecting a name like lindsay_ or _lindsay.

I see an error message when I try to select my username, but I don’t think it’s taken

Here are the possible reasons why you would be unable to claim a username that seems available:

• Usernames containing the words {siteName} or Admin cannot be claimed. No account names can contain {siteName} or Admin unless they are official {siteName} accounts.
   
• Your username must be at least 3 characters long.
• Your username cannot be longer than 15 characters. Your name can be longer (50 characters), but usernames are kept shorter for the sake of ease.
• A username can only contain alphanumeric characters(letters a-z, numbers 0-9) with the exception of underscores and periods, as noted above. Check to make sure your desired username doesn't contain any symbols, dashes, or spaces.
• A username can't have 2 or more periods consecutively.
• A username can't start for finish with a period.
• The username may be claimed by a suspended or deactivated account. Suspended and deactivated usernames are not immediately available for use, so you’ll need to select a different username.

Can I get an inactive username?

Unfortunately, we cannot release inactive usernames at this time. Please read our inactive account policy for more detailed information.