What does this Epic account was previously linked to a different external account?

This Epic Games account error occurs when you try to link a new platform account to your Epic Games account, but the same platform type was previously linked to a different external account. The error message indicates that there is a restriction that prevents you from linking a new account, and to resolve this, you can re-link your original platform account or remove the restriction and link a new account after a certain period of time, typically 365 days.

Understanding Epic Games Accounts and External Account Links

To better understand this error and how to resolve it, let’s dive deeper into how Epic Games accounts work and the process of linking external accounts.

Linking External Accounts to Epic Games

Linking an external account, such as a console account or social media account, to your Epic Games account allows you to access your Fortnite or other game progress and purchases across different platforms. However, Epic Games has certain restrictions in place to prevent account sharing or selling, which can lead to the error message about the account being previously linked to a different external account.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions related to Epic Games accounts, external account links, and the “previously linked” error:

1. What does external account currently connected to your Epic Games account mean?

• This refers to any external platform account (like Xbox, PlayStation, or Nintendo Switch) that is currently linked to your Epic Games account, allowing for cross-platform play and shared progress in games like Fortnite.

1. Can you have two accounts linked to Epic Games?

• No, you cannot link more than one email address to your Fortnite account. Each Epic Games account can only be associated with a single email address.

1. How do I change accounts linked to Epic Games?

• You can change the accounts linked to your Epic Games account by going to the Connected Accounts section, disconnecting the current account, and then connecting the new account you wish to link.

1. Can I relink my Epic account?

• Yes, after unlinking a console account from your Epic Games account, you can relink it. This allows you to access your game progress and purchases again on the relinked account.

1. Will I lose skins if I link my Epic account?

• No, as long as you’ve linked your platform account (Xbox, PlayStation, PC, Switch, or Mobile) to your Epic Games account, any content you purchased (except V-Bucks) and progress you made is accessible across all platforms.

1. Will I lose my Fortnite skins if I unlink my account?

• Your Fortnite stats and cosmetics are stored on the Epic account. Unlinking will not remove these from your Epic account, but you won’t be able to access them on the unlinked platform account.

1. How to fix this Epic Games account is already linked to a different Social Club account?

• To resolve this, you can re-link your original platform account. If you can’t or don’t want to, you can remove the restriction and link a new platform account once every 365 days.

1. Can you transfer an Epic Games account to another email?

• Yes, you can change the email address associated with your Epic Games account by logging in, going to the Account portal, and editing your email address in the ACCOUNT INFO section.

1. How do I unlink my Epic Games account from my Switch?

• You can unlink your Nintendo Account from your Epic account by visiting the Epic Games website, logging in, and choosing to disconnect your Nintendo Account from the Connected Accounts menu.

1. How do I unlink two Epic Games accounts?

   • From your Epic Games account page, select Connections, and then Disconnect under each account you wish to disconnect from your Epic Games account.

2. Can someone else use my Epic Games account?

   • No, account sharing or selling is not allowed by Epic Games. Any actions or bans resulting from sharing are your responsibility.

3. Why won’t Epic Games let me log in?

   • If you’re having trouble logging in, try clearing your browser’s cache and then enter your login information again, or try using an Incognito window or a different browser.

4. Why can’t I connect to my Epic Games account?

   • Check the Epic Games Status page to ensure all systems are operational. If there’s an outage or system-wide issue, you won’t be able to connect until it’s resolved.

5. How do I sell my Fortnite account?

   • While Epic Games prohibits account selling, platforms like Swappa allow you to sell your Fortnite account safely and easily, though this goes against Epic Games’ terms of service.

6. Does unlinking an Epic Games account delete everything?

   • Unlinking your console account from your Epic Games account will prevent access to your game progress and purchases from the unlinked account, but the data remains on your Epic Games account.

By understanding how Epic Games accounts and external account links work, and by following the steps outlined in these FAQs, you can manage your accounts effectively and enjoy a seamless gaming experience across different platforms with Fortnite and other Epic Games titles. Remember, it’s crucial to protect your account by not sharing your login details and being cautious of fraudulent activities.