How to Change Name on United Airlines Ticket | Airfare Travel
Booking a flight is exciting, but realizing that the name on your United Airlines ticket is incorrect can cause panic. A typo, missing middle name, or legal name change after marriage or divorce can lead to denied boarding, TSA delays, or even canceled flights.
At Airfare Travel, we understand how stressful this can be for travelers in the USA. That’s why we’ve created this complete guide on how to change your name on a United Airlines ticket, including step-by-step instructions, fees, rules, common mistakes, and top-ranking FAQs.
By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly how to fix your ticket and travel without worry.
Why Name Accuracy on United Airlines Tickets Matters
The first and most important step in travel preparation is ensuring that your ticket name matches your government-issued ID.
Here’s why this is crucial:
- TSA Boarding Requirements: TSA agents check that the ticket name exactly matches the ID you use for travel. Any mismatch can delay or deny boarding.
- International Travel Issues: For international flights, your ticket must match your passport exactly. Even small errors can result in being stopped at check-in.
- United Airlines Policy: United does not allow transferring tickets to another person. Only the same passenger can correct the ticket name.
Incorrect names can cause stress, missed flights, or additional fees, which is why checking your ticket immediately after booking is vital.
Common Types of Name Issues on United Tickets
Travelers usually encounter three types of issues with their United Airlines ticket names:
1. Minor Name Errors
- Simple typos in first or last name (e.g., “Jonh” → “John”)
- Missing middle initials
- First and last name swapped
These minor issues are usually easy to fix and often have lower fees.
2. Legal Name Changes
- Name change after marriage, divorce, or court order
- Requires supporting documents like a marriage certificate or a legal decree
3. Passenger Transfer (Not Allowed)
- United Airlines prohibits transferring tickets to a new passenger
- Tickets can only be corrected for the same individual
Correctly identifying the type of name issue will help determine the best correction method.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Change Name on United Airlines Ticket
Step 1: Check Your Ticket Immediately
After booking, verify your ticket against your government-issued ID. This should be done as soon as possible.
Common issues include:
- Typos in first or last name
- Missing middle name or initial
- Reversed first and last names
The sooner you spot a mistake, the easier and cheaper it is to fix it.
Tip: Keep a copy of your ID handy when reviewing your ticket.
Step 2: Correct Minor Errors Online
United allows minor corrections through their Manage Reservations portal:
- Go to United.com
- Click Manage Reservations
- Enter your booking confirmation and last name
- Look for the option to edit traveler information
Minor corrections like spelling mistakes, missing initials, or middle names can often be fixed here.
Note: Major legal name changes will require contacting United Airlines directly.
Step 3: Contact United Airlines Customer Service
For most name corrections and all legal changes, call United Airlines:
United Airlines Customer Service (USA): 1‑800‑864‑8331
When calling, provide:
- Your booking confirmation number
- The incorrect name and the correct version
- Reason for the change (typo, marriage, divorce, court order)
The agent will guide you through the process and let you know what documentation is required.
Step 4: Provide Documentation for Legal Name Changes
If your name change is legal, you will need to submit supporting documents:
- Marriage certificate
- Divorce decree
- Court-issued name change order
- Updated government-issued ID
Providing these documents ensures that United Airlines can update your ticket correctly and avoid any boarding issues.
Tip: Always scan or photograph your documents for quicker submission.
Step 5: Airport Counter Assistance (Last Resort)
If all else fails and your flight is imminent, you can request assistance at the United Airlines check-in desk.
Important:
- Not all corrections may be processed at the airport
- Fees may still apply
- Bring all required documentation
United Airlines Name Change Fees in the USA
United charges different fees depending on the type of change and timing:
| Type of Change | Fee | Notes |
| Minor spelling correction | Often free | If corrected immediately |
| Moderate correction | ~$75 | Usually after 24 hours of booking |
| Legal name change | ~$200+ | Documentation required |
| Adding last names | ~$200+ | May include fare difference |
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Changing Your Name
- Not matching your ID: Always enter the name exactly as it appears on your passport or driver’s license.
- Waiting too long: Fixing mistakes within 24 hours is easier and cheaper.
- Trying to transfer the ticket: United does not allow passenger transfers.
Avoiding these mistakes can save stress, time, and money.
Tips to Ensure Smooth Name Corrections
- Double-check your ID: Include middle names and initials exactly as they appear.
- Act fast: Correct errors immediately after booking.
- Keep documentation ready: For legal changes, have your documents scanned and available.
- Confirm corrections: Always check that the name has been updated in United Airlines’ system.
Correcting your name on a United Airlines ticket is straightforward if you act quickly and provide proper documentation. Double-check your ticket immediately after booking, use online tools for minor corrections, and contact United Airlines for major changes.
Following this guide ensures a smooth boarding process, avoids TSA delays, and prevents extra fees. For all your travel needs, Visit Airfare Travel.
By following these steps, travelers in the USA can ensure a stress-free flight with United Airlines.
