United Airlines Name Correction Policy: A Complete Guide
Booking a flight can be a bit tricky, and one common hiccup travelers face is mistyping their name. It could be something as simple as leaving out a letter, mixing up initials, or even forgetting a middle name. Airlines, especially united airlines, are pretty strict about name accuracy. Your ticket needs to match your government-issued id or passport exactly. If it doesn’t, you might run into problems like being denied boarding, having issues at check-in, or even incurring extra fees at the airport.
To help you avoid any last-minute stress, this guide walks you through united airlines' name correction policy. You’ll find step-by-step instructions for fixing mistakes, details on fees, eligibility criteria, and some handy tips. And if you need immediate help, don’t hesitate to reach out to United Airlines Name Correction Policy support at 1-855-262-6888 for quick assistance.
Why Does United Airlines Require Accurate Passenger Names?
Airlines and TSA security rules require that the names on your tickets match your government-issued ID exactly. Even the tiniest discrepancy can lead to delays or even stop you from boarding your flight. Here’s why getting it right is so important:
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TSA Secure Flight Program: Federal regulations mandate that the name on your ticket matches your ID or passport.
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Prevent Fraud & Resale: Ensuring name accuracy helps stop unauthorized ticket transfers.
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Smooth Check-In: Mistakes in names can lead to issues with your boarding pass.
So, if your ticket says Jhon instead of John, or if your middle initial is missing, it’s crucial to fix it before you travel.
United Airlines Name Correction Policy
United airlines does allow for name corrections, but the rules can differ based on the type of mistake. Here’s a quick overview of their official name correction policy:
✅ Minor name corrections
If you have small spelling mistakes like a missing letter or a typo these can typically be fixed without needing to reissue your ticket. Some examples include:
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Micheal → michael
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Smyth → smith
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Missing middle initial
These minor adjustments are usually handled swiftly through united’s customer service or their online portal.
✅ Major name corrections
For more significant changes, such as changing a last name, swapping passenger names, or correcting several letters. United might require you to reissue your ticket and provide additional documentation.
❌ Name changes (different passenger)
Keep in mind that united airlines doesn’t permit complete name changes to transfer a ticket to someone else. Their name correction policy is only applicable to the original passenger.
United Airlines 24-hour Name Correction Rule
If you happen to catch a mistake right after booking, you’re in luck! United Airlines has a handy 24-hour flexible booking window:
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You can cancel or rebook within 24 hours of your purchase without any fees.
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Plus, if you need to correct a name, you can make a new booking at no extra charge.
This policy is a lifesaver for travelers who spot errors right after they’ve booked.
Read Also:- What Is The Process Of United Airlines Cancellation Policy?
Fees for United Airlines Name Corrections
When it comes to fixing a name on a United Airlines ticket, the cost can vary based on the type of error and the fare class you booked:
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For minor corrections, you might find that it’s often free or just comes with a small administrative fee.
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However, if you need to make major corrections that require a reissue, expect to pay anywhere from $75 to $200, plus any fare difference that might apply.
If you booked a Saver or Basic Economy fare, keep in mind that there could be stricter rules in place.
How to Correct a Name on United Airlines Ticket
United Airlines has several options for correcting a name on your booking:
1. Online through Manage Booking
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Visit to united.com
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Click on My Trips/Manage Booking
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Input your confirmation number along with your last name
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If your booking is eligible, select “Edit traveler details” to make the changes online
2. Call United Airlines Support
For more complicated corrections, reach out to United Airlines name correction support at +1-855-262-6888. Their agents can help you with the corrections, advise you on what documentation you might need, and reissue tickets if necessary.
3. Airport Ticket Counter
If your flight is approaching, stop by the United ticket counter at the airport. Don’t forget to bring your passport or ID for verification.
Documents Needed for Name Correction
If you happen to make a mistake with your name, United Airlines might ask you to provide some proof of your correct name. Here’s what you might need:
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A government-issued photo ID
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Your passport (if you're flying internationally)
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Legal documents that show any name changes due to marriage or divorce
Just a heads up: always bring the same ID that you plan to use for your travel.
United Airlines Name Correction for International Flights
Traveling internationally means you need to be extra careful with your passport details. For flights abroad:
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Make sure your ticket has the exact same name as your passport.
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Even small things like missing hyphens or accents can lead to issues in certain countries.
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If there are any mistakes on your ticket for international flights, United Airlines might ask you to get a new one.
United Airlines Name Correction & Mileageplus
If you're a MileagePlus member, it's really important to make sure your profile details match your ID perfectly. Any discrepancies in your name can lead to:
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Trouble redeeming rewards
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Miles not being credited properly
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Issues when boarding
To avoid any hiccups, be sure to update your MileagePlus account at the same time you correct your ticket.
Tips to Avoid Name Correction Fees
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Make sure to double-check your spelling before you confirm your booking.
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Use your government-issued ID name exactly as it appears (no nicknames, please).
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If you've recently changed your legal name, be sure to update your passport or ID first.
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To minimize errors, book directly with United Airlines or a trusted agent.
Final Thoughts
Mistakes can happen, but they don’t have to spoil your trip. Thanks to United Airlines’ name correction policy, you can easily fix typos, update your legal name, and travel with peace of mind. Just remember to act fast especially for international travel to steer clear of any fees or boarding hiccups.
If you’re unsure about your fare type, potential fees, or your options for making corrections, don’t wait until it’s too late. Reach out to a dedicated support agent at +1-855-262-6888 for expert assistance with your United Airlines name correction request. For more information visit Top Airline Rules now!
FAQs
Q1. Does united airlines allow name corrections?
Yes, united airlines allows minor name corrections such as typos, misspellings, or missing middle initials. Major corrections may require reissuing the ticket.
Q2. Can I change the passenger name on a united airlines ticket?
No, united airlines does not allow a complete name change to transfer a ticket to another passenger. Name corrections apply only to the original traveler.
Q3. How much does united airlines charge for a name correction?
Minor corrections may be free or involve a small administrative fee. Major corrections requiring ticket reissue can cost between $75 and $200 plus fare differences.
Q4. How do I fix a name error on a united airlines ticket?
You can correct your name by using united’s “manage booking” tool online, contacting customer service at +1-855-262-6888, or visiting a united ticket counter at the airport.
Q5. Does united airlines allow middle name corrections?
Yes, united airlines permits middle name corrections and the addition of missing initials, as long as the correction reflects the original traveler.
By Alison Bernard
Published Sep 25,2025