diff --git a/bookwyrm/models/user.py b/bookwyrm/models/user.py
index 7b0f9a91..170b587e 100644
--- a/bookwyrm/models/user.py
+++ b/bookwyrm/models/user.py
@@ -171,15 +171,15 @@ class User(OrderedCollectionPageMixin, AbstractUser):
 
     def save(self, *args, **kwargs):
         ''' populate fields for new local users '''
+        created = not bool(self.id)
         if not self.local and not re.match(regex.full_username, self.username):
             # generate a username that uses the domain (webfinger format)
             actor_parts = urlparse(self.remote_id)
             self.username = '%s@%s' % (self.username, actor_parts.netloc)
             super().save(*args, **kwargs)
-            return
 
         # this user already exists, no need to populate fields
-        if self.id:
+        if created:
             super().save(*args, **kwargs)
             return