diff --git a/common/src/main/java/me/lucko/luckperms/common/storage/backing/file/FlatfileBacking.java b/common/src/main/java/me/lucko/luckperms/common/storage/backing/file/FlatfileBacking.java
index d71897b16..3126fb5a7 100644
--- a/common/src/main/java/me/lucko/luckperms/common/storage/backing/file/FlatfileBacking.java
+++ b/common/src/main/java/me/lucko/luckperms/common/storage/backing/file/FlatfileBacking.java
@@ -109,7 +109,9 @@ public abstract class FlatfileBacking extends AbstractBacking {
             e.printStackTrace();
         }
 
-        cleanupUsers();
+        // schedule user cleanup
+        plugin.getScheduler().asyncLater(this::cleanupUsers, 10L);
+
         setAcceptingLogins(true);
     }