United Airlines Name Change Policy
Travelers finding name errors on their flight tickets look back in awe and wonder why. The minor changes may not pinch them as world travelers accept and understand the habit of making typographical errors (over the phone). They seek expert assistance for major name corrections. They're willing to pay the fees. Their priority is to fix the errors in time and without any penalty. United Airlines name change policy brings their attention back to the ticket type and fare differences to cover all aspects. Stay focused, patient, and cooperative. You don't want to repeat the behavior and cause further damage.
Making name corrections on their flight tickets is not a favorite or loved activity. Still, it imparts an important lesson in traveling: Plan meticulously. The changes could be pleasant or unwelcoming. Travelers should be adaptive to get the most out of their buck.
The idea is to follow a practical approach and find out the resolution. You shall not dwell on how one could get their name wrong or miss adding the middle initial. United Airlines name change policy underlines the difference between minor and major changes, name change request timing, fee, and rebooking. Passengers need clarity, concise information, and precise decision-making to avoid the unexpected hassle.
Why should you care about the name change policy?
- The rule of thumb is that your flight ticket name should match the government-issued ID. Any minor or major errors must be rectified before the scheduled flight departure. Any delays or lethargic approaches may cause an issue at check-in or boarding.
- Please refrain from ticket transfers, which are not allowed under normal circumstances.
- The name change policy applies to United Airlines and United Express (flight tickets starting with the code 016).
Lost between minor and major name changes? Call our experts at +1-888-585-0492 (OTA). Read top United Airline-related news on New Airline Policy.
United Airlines Name Change Policy: How to Identify Minor and Major Changes
United Airlines name change policy classifies name corrections into two categories: Minor changes and major changes.
Minor Name Corrections
Minor changes include spelling errors, prefix corrections, and the inclusion or removal of a middle name.
- United allows one ticket reissue for name corrections. We request that passengers double-check their details. We know you can't get your name wrong twice, but we wanted to let you know.
- You can request minor name changes for all United Airlines and United Express flights.
- The airline does not allow you to make the corrections after you check in, so the timing is crucial. We can't stress enough that you should get name corrections done as soon as you identify them.
Major Name Corrections
Life brings us new experiences to cherish. Sometimes, it is about discovering a new self. On other occasions, it is about individual choices and evolution. An event like marriage or divorce marks a significant chapter in our lives. Passengers requesting a name change should have a marriage certificate or divorce decree. Major name change requests require passengers to contact customer service and submit the necessary documents.
United Airlines Name Change Policy: Count the Exceptions
- The case of an unaccompanied minor requires special attention and measures. United Airlines requests birth certificates and guardianship papers for security purposes.
- There is a set of condition-specific rules for international flights. The conditions include ticket type and destination. Please contact customer service for an expert opinion on it.
- Flyers should update their MileagePlus account to sync information across all documents.
United Airlines Name Change Policy Fee
Passengers must exhibit a sense of urgency and willingness to fix the name errors. The secret is to stay agile and flexible.
Minor Name Corrections and the 24-Hour Cancellation Policy
The 24-hour cancellation policy also offers the same benefits to passengers who want to make name corrections. Flyers can make name changes without paying a fee within the first 24 hours of the booking and 7 days from departure time.
Minor Name Corrections after the 24-hour Cancellation Deadline
United Airlines may charge a name correction fee ranging from $50 to $100. It considers the ticket type and the route. Please contact customer service to check the fee status.
Note: MileagePlus members may enjoy a no-fee name change benefit. United Airlines treats them as special to show appreciation and reward loyalty.
Major Name Changes and the 24-hour Cancellation Rule
Passengers do not have to pay fees for name correction requests made within 24 hours of their bookings and 7 days before their scheduled flight departure.
Major Changes after the 24-Hour No Fee Window Expires
United charges a name change fee between $75 and $200.
Important tip: United Airlines rewards passengers for adhering to the 24-hour cancellation policy. The fee, which can reach $200, underlines the strategic focus on timing.
Legal Name Correction Charges
Passengers may need to pay administrative fees of $75 to $200 to process legal documents.
How to count the fare difference?
Passengers should pay for the difference in the fares for the rebooked flights. Conversely, the airline may issue a refund or credit if the fare is lower.
Must-Have Information
Basic Economy Tickets: Travelers should exercise extra caution when buying tickets in this category. They should identify and make the required changes within the first 24 hours. If they miss the 24-hour deadline, they will lose the opportunity to change their ticket.
How to get a refund with a Basic Economy ticket?
You should cancel the ticket within the first 24 hours and 7 days before the departure date.
What is the best option for the Basic Economy fare passengers?
You should cancel the ticket and rebook using the updated name. Please check the seat availability and fare difference.
How much time does it take for minor and major name corrections?
Minor Name Changes
Real-time updates: Requests submitted online (website/app) or at the airport.
Over the phone: It may take up to 24 to 48 hours.
Major Name Changes
Legal document verification may take up to two weeks. MileagePlus members may expect the same time window for the updated changes to show in their accounts.
FAQs
What types of name changes can I make to my flight?
United Airlines name change policy allows minor and major name changes. You may correct spelling errors or add or remove middle names under minor changes. Making significant changes to your name after a marriage or divorce requires document submission for verification purposes.
How shall I make the name change requests?
Passengers can make minor name changes online (website/app), through customer service, or at the airport. Legal name change requests follow a dedicated process where flyers should contact customer service and submit relevant documents.
Does United Airlines allow a ticket transfer?
United Airlines does not allow a ticket transfer. The ticket details must match the traveler's government-issued ID.
Can I make name corrections to Award Tickets?
Yes, you can correct the names on Award Tickets. Please check your MileagePlus account status for clarity. We suggest calling customer service to follow the correct process.
How can legal name changes be made without documents?
Share a notary-attested affidavit and submit it to the MileagePlus Service Center.
Conclusion
United Airlines name change policy addresses minor and major name corrections. It outlines fees, timelines, restrictions, rebooking policies, fare differences, refunds, and other rules. Passengers regain ultimate control as they make their way back to normalcy. United Airlines prioritizes passenger security across all its policies.
Sam Jakobi
He is a writes about transport, travel and more for publications like Newairlinepolicy.com. His aim is to provide in-depth analysis on breaking news within the aviation industry and insights into airlines, aircraft, airports